Solitaire has been a favorite single-player card game for generations. Despite its simple rules, it hides a world of strategy, logic, and a bit of luck. But what is the least amount of moves possible to win Solitaire? And how many moves do most players make? Let’s take a closer look.
In theory, a game of Solitaire could be won in just 52 moves — one for each card moved directly to the foundation without any detours. No shifting cards between tableau piles, no extra steps — just a perfectly aligned deal.
But there’s a catch: the odds of getting such a perfect setup are about 1.24×10⁻⁶⁸. In other words, it’s so rare that it’s practically impossible.
In reality, winning a game involves flipping hidden cards, moving sequences around, and drawing from the waste pile. That means the fewest number of moves in Solitaire is rarely achievable in actual gameplay. Most games demand a lot more moves and decision-making.
While expert players may finish a game in 100 to 140 moves, casual gameplay often requires more time and actions. On average, it takes around 243 moves to win a game of Solitaire. This reflects a more relaxed play style, occasional backtracking, and the natural complexity of most random deals.
So, when thinking about the average number of moves in Solitaire, remember that experience, skill, and strategy all play a role — but luck still matters.
The odds of winning Solitaire depend heavily on the version of the game you're playing, as well as your skill level and strategy.
Klondike Solitaire Turn 1, the most popular and widely played version of the game, has a winnable rate of around 40% across all possible deals. However, skilled players — using smart strategies and recognizing solvable setups — can win up to 80% of the games they play. Other variations, like Spider Solitaire, tend to have even lower win rates due to increased complexity.
You can improve your chances of winning Solitaire by using smart strategies — like uncovering hidden cards early, managing the stockpile carefully, and keeping the tableau balanced. Still, a lot depends on luck and how the cards are dealt at the start.
While the least amount of moves needed to win Solitaire is theoretically 52, such a game is almost impossible to encounter. In reality, most games require significantly more effort and strategic decision-making. But don’t worry — with practice and smart play, you’ll find yourself using fewer moves over time. Ready to test your skills? Try a game on Solitaires and see how your move count compares.
