Play Scorpion II Solitaire Online for Free
What is Scorpion II Solitaire?
Scorpion II Solitaire is a streamlined twist on the original Scorpion Solitaire. The gameplay is identical — build descending sequences by suit within the tableau until full King-to-Ace runs are formed — but with one small adjustment that shifts the difficulty. Instead of four columns starting with face-down cards, Scorpion II Solitaire reduces that to just three. This subtle change uncovers more playable cards right from the beginning, making the variant a touch more forgiving than the classic version.
How to Play Scorpion II Solitaire
Objective
Your goal remains to complete four full suit sequences descending from King down to Ace. Once a complete run (K→A) is assembled, it automatically moves to the foundation area. Victory comes when all four suits are completed.
Setup
- Deck: A single 52-card deck.
- Tableau: 7 columns with 7 cards each.
- Columns 1–3: the bottom three cards face-down, the rest face-up.
- Columns 4–7: all seven cards dealt face-up.
- Reserve: 3 leftover cards form the stock. When you choose to deal them, place one face-up card onto each of the first three tableau piles. This can only be done once per game.
- Foundation: Completed K→A runs are sent here automatically. You win once all four suits are built.
Rules
- Building: Sequences must be built strictly downward in the same suit (for example, 9♣ on 10♣).
- Moving cards: Any face-up card — with all cards stacked above it — may be lifted and placed onto a valid same-suit continuation.
- Revealing cards: When a hidden card is uncovered, it is immediately flipped face-up.
- Empty columns: Only a King (or a sequence topped by a King) may occupy an empty space.
- Dealing the reserve: The three stock cards are dealt once, one to each of the first three piles, typically used when no further progress is possible.
- Completed sequences: Full King-to-Ace runs automatically transfer to the foundation.
Strategy Tips
- Fewer hidden cards means faster starts: With only 9 face-downs in play, uncovering them early is easier than in standard Scorpion. Take advantage of this extra visibility.
- Open columns are powerful: Creating an empty pile for a King can unlock huge reorganizations. Try to plan ahead so you can make space when a King becomes available.
- Balance speed and flexibility: Because you can move entire stacks starting from any face-up card, be cautious not to trap useful cards under long sequences too soon.
- Use the reserve wisely: Hold off on dealing the stock until you’re either stuck or confident it will help — it can both save and complicate the position.
- Watch the Aces: Since nothing can be placed on an Ace, don’t let them get stuck high up in a column.
Why Play Scorpion II Solitaire?
Scorpion II Solitaire is perfect if you enjoy the challenge of Scorpion Solitaire but want a slightly gentler introduction. By reducing the number of hidden cards at the start, this variation gives you more playable options immediately, leading to a smoother but still deeply strategic experience. It’s an excellent stepping stone for players looking to progress toward the tougher original version.
