Simple Simon

A pure-skill Spider variant where all 52 cards are dealt face-up from the start. With no stock and no hidden information, every game is won or lost entirely by your decisions.

The Deal#

All 52 cards are dealt face-up across ten tableau columns: three columns of 8 cards, then columns of 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, and 1 card.

The Layout#

• Tableau: Ten columns of face-up cards where you build descending sequences.
• Foundation: Four piles where completed King-to-Ace same-suit sequences are placed.

There is no stock or waste pile.

Rules#

1. Building Sequences: Stack cards in descending order regardless of suit. For example, any 6 can be placed on any 7. However, only same-suit sequences can be moved as a group.
2. Moving Cards: The top card of any column is always available. A consecutive same-suit sequence at the top of a column can be moved as a unit. Mixed-suit sequences can only be moved one card at a time.
3. Empty Columns: Any card or valid same-suit sequence may be placed in an empty column.
4. Completing Sequences: When you build a complete sequence from King to Ace in the same suit, it is automatically removed to the foundations.

Variants#

• Standard: Normal rules as described above.
• Relaxed: Any descending group can be moved regardless of suit, making the game easier.

Strategy Tips#

• Since all cards are visible, plan several moves ahead before committing.
• Build in suit whenever possible, as only same-suit sequences can be moved together.
• Empty columns are extremely valuable. They function like free cells, letting you temporarily store cards while reorganizing.
• Focus on assembling one or two complete suit sequences early to free up space.
• Work from the longer columns first, as they contain more cards that need organizing.
• A mixed-suit sequence can still be moved if you have enough empty columns to break it apart temporarily, similar to the supermove concept in FreeCell.