Play Scorpion Solitaire Free Online

Scorpion Solitaire

Scorpion Solitaire — free online card game screenshot

Scorpion Solitaire deals all 52 cards into seven columns, with three face-down cards in each of the first four columns. Like Spider, you build same-suit descending sequences, but Scorpion adds Yukon-style moves: pick up any face-up card along with everything above it, regardless of sequence. Three reserve cards are dealt when you're stuck. Build four complete same-suit King-to-Ace runs to win.

How to Play Scorpion Solitaire

Layout

49 cards are dealt into 7 columns. The first 4 columns have 3 face-down cards at the top with 4 face-up cards below. The last 3 columns have all 7 cards face-up. The remaining 3 cards are set aside as the reserve.

Objective

Build four complete same-suit sequences from King down to Ace within the tableau.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Build tableau columns in descending order by the same suit (e.g. 8♠ on 9♠).
  2. You can move any face-up card along with all cards on top of it (like Yukon), regardless of what's stacked above.
  3. When a face-down card is uncovered, it flips face-up.
  4. Only Kings (with their stacks) can fill empty columns.
  5. When you run out of moves, click the stock area to deal the 3 reserve cards onto the first 3 columns.
  6. When a complete King-to-Ace same-suit sequence is formed in a column, it stays in place.
  7. Win when all four suits have complete King-to-Ace sequences.

Guides & Strategy

Read our in-depth guides to master the rules and improve your win rate.

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Why Play Scorpion Solitaire Online?

Scorpion Solitaire demands aggressive, forward-thinking play. Like Yukon, you move groups of cards regardless of sequence, but you build same-suit descending runs. The face-down cards in the initial deal create tension, and the three reserve cards add a dramatic twist late in the game.

Game Features

  • Same-Suit Building — Build King-to-Ace runs within the tableau
  • Yukon-Style Group Moves — Move any face-up card with its entire stack
  • Reserve Cards — Three hidden cards dealt when you're stuck add dramatic tension
  • Unlimited Undo — Experiment with different column strategies
  • Smart Hints — Highlights same-suit building opportunities
  • No Download — Play instantly in your browser on any device

Scorpion Tips and Strategies

Uncover face-down cards as your top priority — every hidden card is a potential game-ender. Use the Yukon-style group moves to reorganize liberally. Only Kings can fill empty columns, so plan column-clearing carefully. Save the three reserve cards for when you're truly stuck; they can dramatically shift the game.

Scorpion Solitaire Rules

Scorpion Solitaire Rules: Deal 49 cards into seven columns with the first four columns having the first three cards face-down and the rest face-up. The remaining three cards form a reserve. Gameplay: Build columns down by suit (King to Ace). You can move any face-up card along with all cards above it to another column, regardless of sequence. When an empty column is created, only Kings (with all cards above) can fill it. When no more moves are available, deal the three reserve cards to the first three columns. The goal is to build four complete same-suit sequences from King to Ace. Once complete, these sequences remain in place. Strategy: Focus on exposing face-down cards early. Plan several moves ahead as each move affects many cards. Use empty columns wisely as they can only be filled with Kings.

Scoring System

Scorpion Solitaire awards 100 points for each completed King-to-Ace suited sequence removed from the tableau. Revealing face-down cards earns 5 points. With four sequences to complete, the maximum score is 400 plus flip bonuses.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

In Scorpion, the biggest mistake is ignoring the face-down cards. Prioritize uncovering hidden cards over building long sequences. Moving large groups of mixed-suit cards can feel productive but often blocks same-suit runs needed for completion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about Scorpion Solitaire.

How is Scorpion different from Spider?

Scorpion allows you to move any face-up card along with all cards on top of it, regardless of sequence. Spider only allows moving proper sequences. Scorpion also has face-down cards in the tableau and a small reserve pile, while Spider deals cards from the stockpile.

What is the goal of Scorpion Solitaire?

The goal is to build four complete same-suit sequences from King to Ace in the tableau. These sequences remain in place rather than being removed. All 52 cards must be organized into four descending suit sequences.

History of Scorpion Solitaire

Scorpion Solitaire is a British invention that combines elements of Spider and Yukon. Its name likely refers to the "sting in the tail" — the three hidden reserve cards that are dealt near the end of the game. The game has been played since at least the mid-20th century and is known for its high difficulty and dramatic moments when reserve cards are revealed.

Cognitive Benefits of Scorpion

Scorpion Solitaire builds anticipation management and risk evaluation skills. The hidden face-down cards require probabilistic thinking, while the three reserve cards demand strategic timing. Balancing aggressive plays against conservative column management trains practical decision-making under uncertainty.