How to Play Scorpion Solitaire

Solitaires Team

Scorpion Solitaire stands out among other Solitaire types as a noticeably more complex variant. It is often compared to the more complex and strategic Spider Solitaire game, although their gameplay is different. Scorpion Solitaire tests the skills of players who can already easily cope with other versions like Klondike or FreeCell. The game offers three difficulty levels, each defined by the number of suits in play. To win, arrange the cards into four sequences in descending order from the king to the ace, with each consisting of the same suit. You can be sure that beating Scorpion Solitaire even with one suit will not be easy. So, get ready to learn how to play Scorpion Solitaire. 

Variations of Scorpion Solitaire

Scorpion Solitaire features three levels of difficulty, accommodating players of all skill ranges. These variants differ in the number of suits used in the game, each adding a different level of complexity.

One Suit (Easy)

The easiest form of Scorpion Solitaire uses just one suit, making it perfect for beginners or anyone wanting to understand the game's basic mechanics.

Scorpion Solitaire 1 Suit

Two Suits (Medium)

The medium difficulty level incorporates two suits into the game. This addition requires players to pay closer attention to the suits as they plan their moves.

Scorpion Solitaire 2 Suits

Four Suits (Hard)

The hardest variation of Scorpion Solitaire uses all four suits. This version requires careful planning to successfully clear the tableau. It's designed for those who have mastered the easier versions and are ready to test their skills to the fullest.

Scorpion Solitaire 4 Suits

Setting Up Scorpion Solitaire

Scorpion Solitaire got its name precisely because of the specific layout, which resembles the outline of a scorpion. On the playing board, you can see three areas that are associated with the body of the scorpion (tableau), its head (foundation), and a tail (stockpile). Scorpion Solitaire layout requires 52 cards.

Scorpion Solitaire: Setting Up
  • Tableau: The tableau consists of seven columns, with seven cards in each column. In the first four columns, the top three cards are dealt face down, while the remaining four cards are placed face up. In the remaining 3 columns, all cards are exposed.
  • Stockpile: The stock is represented by the remaining three cards of the deck. These three “reserve” cards are face down at the top left of the layout and are later turned over and played on the tableau.
  • Foundation: This is the area in the upper right corner of the playing board where the completed sequences of cards are moved.

Now that you have recognized the layout of the game let's move on to understanding how to play Scorpion Solitaire.

The Objective

The objective of Scorpion Solitaire is to arrange the cards into four sequences in descending order from the king to the ace, with each consisting of the same suit. Each sequence should be assembled directly on the tableau and only after that, it is moved to the foundation. Here's what one completed sequence looks like before it goes to the foundation pile:

Scorpion Solitaire Rules: Sequence

How to Play Scorpion Solitaire

Scorpion Solitaire's rules are straightforward, yet winning can be a challenge. Regardless of whether you choose the easy, medium, or hard version, the rules remain consistent. So, let's take a look at them.

Move Cards Within the Tableau

You can move any face-up card within the tableau if the card being moved is of the same suit and one rank lower than the card you are placing it onto. For instance, you can place a 4 of spades onto a 5 of spades.

Sequences of cards can be moved if the sequence's top card matches the suit and is one rank lower than the card it's moved onto. Note that it is not necessary for every card in the sequence to be in the correct order or of the same suit.

How to Play Scorpion Solitaire: Step 1

Draw Cards from the Stockpile

The three reserve cards in the stockpile can be flipped over and played at any point in the gameplay, but try to use them when no more moves are available with the current tableau setup. Once you choose to use the stockpile cards, they are placed at the bottom of the first three tableau columns.

How to Play Scorpion Solitaire: Step 2

Moving Cards to Foundations

In Scorpion Solitaire you can't send cards to the foundation one by one. Instead, your goal is to create a complete descending sequence of the same suit, from the king to the ace, within the tableau. Only then will it automatically be sent to the foundation.

How to Play Scorpion Solitaire: Step 3

Use an Empty Column for the King

When an empty tableau column appears during the game, you can only place a single king or a sequence starting with the king. The cards within the sequence starting with the king do not necessarily have to be in descending order or of the same suit.

How to Play Scorpion Solitaire: Step 4

Are you ready to conquer the most challenging version of Solitaire? Well, click the button and start playing Scorpion Solitaire now. You can also check out the winning strategies below, so you'll be fully prepared when you start playing.

How to Win Scorpion Solitaire

You win once you successfully arrange the cards into four sequences in descending order from the king to the ace, with each consisting of the same suit. Not every game can be won but proper strategies will greatly increase your chances of winning. Below are some strategies on how to play Scorpion Solitaire:

Uncover the Hidden Cards as Soon as Possible

Prioritize revealing face-down cards on the tableau quickly to increase your available moves and strategic options. This can significantly impact your ability to organize cards into the required sequences.

Fill Empty Columns with Kings

Try to create empty columns on the tableau to move kings or sequences starting with kings there. Placing a king in an empty column is incredibly valuable because it can give you more flexibility in your moves. Kings in the middle of a column can often block the movement of cards, so it is best if they are at the very top of the columns.

Manage the Reserve Cards Strategically

The “reserve” or the stockpile (the three cards set aside at the beginning) should be used to your advantage. Use them strategically at the perfect time to enhance their effect, particularly to finish a sequence. It is better not to use them until there are no possible moves left on the tableau.

Practice Over and Over Again

Winning at Scorpion Solitaire requires practice to develop an intuition for the game. Give yourself time to master strategies that lead to success.

Is Scorpion Solitaire Winnable?

While Scorpion Solitaire is known for its challenge, winning is definitely achievable with practice and the development of effective strategies. Overall, the chance of winning is not that great. However, this is what attracts millions of fans to the game, who are bored with too-easy victories in other Solitaire games. Now that you've learned how to play Scorpion Solitaire, put your wit and strategic planning skills to the test!


Solitaires Team

Solitaires Team

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