Classic Solitaire vs. Spider Solitaire: Which is Harder?
Everyone has played Solitaire at least once on a computer or mobile device. It is the classic card game which has spared many people forced boredom in the workplace, in school or during family dinners. However, there is more in Solitaire than meets the eye! this is Classic Solitaire vs. Spider Solitaire
The two most played iterations are Classic Solitaire (Klondike) and Spider Solitaire. Although both types involve stacking cards in sequential order, the rules, strategies, and most importantly, difficulties between the two games can be polar opposites.
So we ask the burning question:
Classic Solitaire or Spider Solitaire – Which is harder?
What is Classic Solitaire?
Classic Solitaire (Klondike) is the version that is most recognizable. Microsoft packaged it with Windows in the 90s and everyone now knows the name.
Classic Solitaire Supplies:
- A standard deck of 52 cards is used.
- The objective is to build four foundation stacks from Ace to King of each suit (hearts, diamonds, clubs, and spades).
- The cards are dealt into seven columns alternating colors (red/black), starting with a red Ace at the bottom and ending with a black King at the top.
- Players move cards between columns, uncovering hidden cards and creating spaces under revealed cards.
Why We Love Classic Solitaire:
- Simple rules, easy to learn.
- Quick and easy to play – the perfect time waster.
- Very satisfying to see the cards cascade into the bookends as you finish the game.
What is Spider Solitaire?
Spider Solitaire is like the big-brained cousin of Solitaire.
How It Works:
- Uses two full decks (104 cards).
- Objective: Build 8 complete sequences from King to Ace (all of the same suit).
- Difficulty is determined by suits:
- 1 Suit (Easy): All Spades.
- 2 Suits (Medium): Usually Spades and Hearts.
- 4 Suits (Hard): All four suits, the utmost difficulty.
Why People Love It:
- More depth for players who have mastered Classic Solitaire.
- Requires strategy and long-term planning.
- Extreme satisfaction when you finally clear the board.
Classic Solitaire vs. Spider Solitaire: Quick Comparison
| Feature | Classic Solitaire | Spider Solitaire |
|---|---|---|
| Decks Used | 1 deck (52 cards) | 2 decks (104 cards) |
| Objective | Build 4 foundations (Ace–King) | Build 8 sequences (King–Ace) |
| Difficulty | Easy to moderate | Moderate to very hard |
| Time to Play | 5–15 minutes | 15–45 minutes |
| Learning Curve | Beginner-friendly | Steeper; needs experience |
| Gameplay Strategy | Short-term focus on uncovering cards | Long-term strategy; patience |
| Popularity | Extremely popular (Classic Windows game) | Popular with advanced players |
Difficulty Levels Explained
Classic Solitaire Difficulty
- Normally seen as easy.
- A lot comes down to luck (first card drawn, shuffle).
- Good players usually achieve a 35%–50% win rate.
Spider Solitaire Difficulty
- Depends on the number of suits:
- 1 Suit: Pretty easy but requires more thought than Classic Solitaire.
- 2 Suits: Fairly challenging, needs strategizing.
- 4 Suits: Exceptionally hard; win rates drop to 5%–10%.
Spider Solitaire requires patience, foresight, and strategy, not just luck.
Strategy Comparison
Classic Solitaire Strategies
- First, reveal hidden cards.
- Move Aces and Twos to the foundation early.
- Consider returning cards to empty columns (best with a King).
- Don’t rush moving cards to the foundation – sometimes they’re better left in play.
Spider Solitaire Strategies
- Always try to build in the same suit.
- Empty columns = more options.
- Use Undo moves strategically (digital play allows it).
- Patience is key – rushing often leads to dead ends.
Which One is Harder and Why?
- Classic Solitaire feels easier for beginners. It’s less complex, takes less time, and doesn’t demand much strategy.
- Spider Solitaire is harder – hands down.
Why Spider Solitaire is harder:
- More cards (104 vs. 52).
- Longer runs (King to Ace, 8 times).
- Strategy matters more than luck.
- Lower win rates at higher difficulty.
👉 If you want something casual, quick, and satisfying → choose Classic Solitaire.
👉 If you want a true test of skill, patience, and strategy → Spider Solitaire is the winner.
FAQs
1. What is the best solitaire for beginners?
Classic Solitaire – easy to learn and quick to play.
2. Is Spider Solitaire impossible to win?
No! It’s difficult (especially with 4 suits), but not impossible with strategy and patience.
3. Why is Classic Solitaire so popular?
Because it has been bundled with Windows for nearly 30 years, making it globally recognizable.
4. How long does a typical game last?
- Classic Solitaire: 5–15 minutes.
- Spider Solitaire: 15–45 minutes (sometimes longer).
5. Which solitaire is better for the brain?
Spider Solitaire – it requires strategy, memory, and critical thinking.
Conclusion
When it comes to Classic Solitaire vs. Spider Solitaire, the winner depends on what you’re looking for:
- Classic Solitaire: Casual, quick, and satisfying.
- Spider Solitaire: Challenging, strategic, and mentally rewarding.
At the end of the day, both games offer uniquely compelling fun!
Why not try both and decide for yourself which Solitaire is harder?
