If you enjoy Solitaire but want something with a bit more depth and visual flair, Thieves of Egypt Solitaire is the perfect choice. Inspired by ancient Egyptian themes and built on the mechanics of traditional Solitaire, this card game challenges players to think ahead, plan moves carefully, and manage multiple stacks efficiently.
In this article, you'll learn exactly how to play Thieves of Egypt Solitaire from setup to winning strategy even if you're a complete beginner.
Thieves of Egypt Solitaire is a variation of the classic Klondike Solitaire. It keeps the foundational Solitaire goal organizing cards from Ace to King in each suit but uses a different setup and adds a touch of thematic mystery with its ancient Egyptian design.
It's both relaxing and intellectually satisfying, offering an engaging experience for both casual players and seasoned card game fans.
When you start a game of Thieves of Egypt Solitaire, the playing area consists of:
10 tableau columns arranged in a pyramid-like formation. The first column has 1 card, the second has 2 cards, and so on, up to 10 cards in the last column.
Only the top card of each column is face-up; the others are face-down.
A stock pile (draw pile) on the upper-left corner that contains the remaining cards.
Four foundation piles on the upper-right side where you’ll eventually stack each suit in order.
The objective is simple in theory, but challenging in execution: move all cards to the foundation piles, arranging each suit in ascending order from Ace to King.
To do this, you'll need to uncover and move cards around the tableau, using strategy to open up new possibilities and free up blocked cards.
Here are the key rules you need to know:
Cards can be moved within the tableau in descending order and alternating colors (e.g., a red 7 can go on a black 8).
Only face-up cards can be moved or stacked.
Moving an entire stack of properly ordered cards is allowed if the sequence follows alternating colors.
When a face-down card is uncovered, it flips face-up automatically.
You can place a King or a King-starting stack into any empty column.
Cards can be drawn one at a time from the stock pile and played onto the tableau or the foundations.
You win the game when all cards are moved to the foundation piles in the correct order and suit.
Winning Thieves of Egypt Solitaire isn’t just about making random moves. It takes smart planning and good card management. Here are a few essential tips:
Your first priority should always be to uncover the face-down cards. Each uncovered card gives you more options and improves your chances of making better moves.
2. Use Empty Columns Wisely
Empty tableau columns are incredibly valuable. Only Kings (or valid King stacks) can be placed there, but they open up room to maneuver cards and build new sequences.
Avoid drawing from the stock pile too soon. Exhaust all possible moves on the tableau before adding new cards new cards can clutter your progress if you’re not ready for them.
4. Build Long Stacks Whenever Possible
Try to create long sequences using alternating colors so you can move groups of cards efficiently. This also increases your chances of revealing hidden cards.
Each move you make can affect several future possibilities. Take a moment to evaluate whether a move helps you uncover a card, free up a column, or just clutters the board.
Apart from being mentally stimulating, Thieves of Egypt Solitaire stands out thanks to its thematic visuals and layered challenge. The Egyptian-inspired background, golden accents, and smooth animations offer a relaxing and immersive experience.
Plus, it’s perfect for players who want something more complex than basic Solitaire but not as intense as strategy board games.
Thieves of Egypt Solitaire can be played for free on many browser-based game websites. It’s also available as a mobile app on both Android and iOS, often with daily challenges, stats tracking, and customizable themes.
Most versions don’t require registration or download ust launch and play instantly.
Thieves of Egypt Solitaire is more than just a card game. It’s a mentally rewarding, visually engaging solitaire experience that takes classic gameplay and spices it up with deeper strategy and a beautiful theme.
If you’re a fan of Solitaire or just enjoy thoughtful games that challenge your focus and patience, this game is definitely worth playing. With some practice and planning, you’ll be clearing foundations like a Pharaoh clearing a path to hidden treasure.