What is the difference between Turn 1 and Turn 3?
Turn 1 and Turn 3 are the same game of Klondike with one setting changed, but that single setting transforms the difficulty and the way you plan.
How each mode works
In Turn 1, each draw from the stock reveals one card, so with enough passes you can reach every card in the deck. In Turn 3, each draw reveals three cards but only the top one is immediately playable, which hides two cards and forces you to count draws to reach a specific card. You can switch modes in Klondike's settings.
The difficulty gap
Turn 1 is much friendlier, with roughly 80% of deals winnable under perfect play. Turn 3 restricts access to the stock and demands you track which cards will land on top, so both the theoretical and real win rates drop. Casinos historically favored Turn 3 precisely because it's harder to beat. See winnability by variant for the numbers.
Which should you play?
Beginners should start on Turn 1 to learn the core mechanics without constant frustration, as our beginner guide recommends. Once you're comfortable, Turn 3 is the classic challenge. Our Turn 3 vs. Turn 1 article digs into the strategy differences.
Related questions
What is Klondike solitaire?
Klondike is the version of solitaire most people simply call 'solitaire.' You deal seven tableau columns, build them down in alternating colors, and move cards up to four foundations by suit from Ace to King. Microsoft bundled it with Windows 3.0 in 1990, making it one of the most-played games ever.
What percentage of solitaire games are winnable?
It varies enormously by variant. About 99.999% of FreeCell deals are winnable with perfect play, roughly 80% of Klondike Turn 1 deals, around 80% of Yukon deals, and only about 20% of strict-rules Pyramid deals. Real win rates are much lower than these theoretical ceilings.
Which solitaire game is best for beginners?
Klondike Turn 1 is the classic starting point - simple rules and a high share of winnable deals. 1-suit Spider is even more forgiving. TriPeaks and Golf are fast, casual picks. Once comfortable, FreeCell teaches real planning, and Russian or Forty Thieves await when you want a challenge.