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What is Reverse Tripeaks Solitaire?

Reverse Tripeaks Solitaire is a clever twist on the classic Tripeaks formula. It uses the same three-peak layout and the same rank-based gameplay, but with one key change: instead of many cards starting face-up, almost the entire tableau begins face-down. Only the three peak cards are visible at the start. This reversed visibility creates a more puzzle-like challenge, forcing you to uncover the tableau layer by layer while choosing each move carefully. It offers a familiar feel to Tripeaks players, but with a distinctly more strategic rhythm.

How to Play Reverse Tripeaks Solitaire

Objective

The goal of Reverse Tripeaks Solitaire is to clear all cards from the tableau by moving them onto the waste pile. You remove cards by selecting any available tableau card that is exactly one rank higher or lower than the top card of the waste pile. Suits and colors do not matter.

Setup

Reverse Tripeaks Solitaire uses a standard 52-card deck and keeps the same triangular “three peaks” structure as traditional Tripeaks, with a total of 28 tableau cards. The difference is how many start face-up:

Tableau: 28 cards arranged in three overlapping peaks, just like standard Tripeaks. However, only the very top cards of each peak (3 cards total) begin face-up. All other tableau cards start face-down. As you remove blocking cards, the face-down cards beneath them flip face-up and become playable.
Stock (draw pile): The remaining cards form the stock, placed face-down. When no tableau moves are available, you draw the next card from the stock to the waste.
Waste: The waste pile determines which cards you can play next. After removing a tableau card, it becomes the new top of the waste pile.

Rules

Rank-based matching: You may play a tableau card that is one rank higher or lower than the current waste card.
First Move Flexibility: Because the waste begins empty, your first play may be any of the three exposed peak cards. After placing that first card, the normal “one higher or one lower” rule applies for all subsequent plays.
Face-up & unblocked cards only: A tableau card must be face-up and not covered by another card to be playable. Removing blocking cards flips the cards behind them face-up.
Single stock pass: You normally get only one pass through the stock pile. Once the stock is empty, you cannot draw more cards.
No tableau building: You cannot move cards around within the tableau—only remove them.
Empty spaces remain empty: When a card is removed, the spot does not refill. The shape of the layout stays the same.

Strategies for Reverse Tripeaks Solitaire

Reverse Tripeaks Solitaire rewards careful planning and smart card-revealing decisions. These strategies can help you succeed:

Focus on unlocking face-down cards: Since nearly everything starts hidden, prioritize moves that reveal new cards. Each newly revealed card increases your chances of continuing your sequence.
Make the first move count: With only three exposed cards to start, the opening play heavily shapes your early momentum. Choose the peak card that is most likely to uncover useful ranks or future combos.
Avoid unnecessary stock draws: Each draw from the stock reduces your flexibility. Always check thoroughly for available plays before drawing a new waste card.
Build long sequences: Just like in regular Tripeaks, long runs are essential. Try to chain moves in both directions whenever possible—such as 9 → 10 → 9 → 8 → 7.
Work evenly across the peaks: Clearing only one peak at a time can leave you stuck with large blocked areas. Progressing all three peaks simultaneously improves your overall move options.
Pause after each reveal: When you uncover a hidden card, stop briefly and reassess your options. The newly revealed card may open a better sequence than the one you were planning.
Plan carefully when the stock is low: The last few stock cards often decide the game. Think ahead about which ranks you still need available to finish clearing the tableau.
Use hints or undo tools: These features can help explore different sequences and avoid wasting valuable stock cards.

Why Play Reverse Tripeaks Solitaire?

Reverse Tripeaks Solitaire is perfect for players who enjoy Tripeaks but want a more strategic, reveal-focused challenge. The reversed face-up pattern transforms the experience into a deeper puzzle, where every move helps uncover the hidden structure of the peaks. Whether you're experimenting with new strategies or looking for a more thoughtful variant of a classic favorite, Reverse Tripeaks Solitaire delivers a satisfying blend of discovery, planning, and combo-building. You can play Reverse Tripeaks Solitaire and many other solitaire games for free at Solitaire Land.