Four Seasons Solitaire is a fast game with a distinctive cross-shaped tableau of 5 cards and a large stock. Games are won or lost quickly — understanding the core mechanics and making smart early moves is everything.
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Play Free Four Seasons →The Four Seasons Layout
Four Seasons deals 5 cards into a cross-shaped tableau (4 corner positions + 1 center). One card is placed on the first foundation to set the starting rank — all four foundations build from that rank upward by suit, wrapping around from King to Ace. The remaining 47 cards form the stock, which you deal one at a time to a waste pile.
Core Strategy
The key to Four Seasons is tableau management. The 5 tableau positions can each hold one card. You can move any tableau card to a foundation if it fits, or move it to another empty tableau position. Cards from the waste pile go to any open tableau space or directly to the foundation.
Keep Tableau Positions Open
Open tableau positions are your most valuable resource. With only 5 positions, filling them all means no card from the waste pile can be placed anywhere useful. Aim to keep 1–2 positions free whenever possible by playing cards to the foundation promptly.
Cycle the Stock Efficiently
You can typically cycle through the stock multiple times. Don't panic if a key card is buried — it will come around again. Use each cycle to advance foundations and create new tableau space. On later passes, tighten your decision-making as options narrow.
Play to Foundation Immediately
Any card that can go to the foundation right now should go there. Don't hold cards in the tableau waiting for a "better" time. Every card on the foundation is one fewer obstacle in your tableau.
Win Rate and Difficulty
Four Seasons has a moderate win rate — studies suggest around 50–60% for competent players. The heavy role of the stock means luck factors into outcomes more than in open games like FreeCell. But smart tableau management consistently improves your odds above the baseline.
Frequently Asked Questions
How hard is Four Seasons Solitaire?
Four Seasons is moderately difficult with a win rate around 50–60%. The limited 5-card tableau and stock-dependent nature mean luck plays a role, but good strategy consistently improves results.
How many times can you go through the stock?
In most implementations you can cycle through the stock multiple times. Check your specific game version — some limit redeals. Unlimited redeals increase the win rate significantly.
What is the starting foundation rank?
The first card dealt to the foundation sets the starting rank for all four foundations. All foundations must start from that rank and build upward by suit, wrapping from King to Ace.
What should I do when the tableau is full?
A full tableau (all 5 positions occupied) means no card from the stock can be placed — you can only play existing tableau cards to the foundation. This is a stuck position. Avoid it by always prioritizing foundation plays.
Is Four Seasons Solitaire the same as Vanishing Cross?
Yes, Four Seasons Solitaire is also known as Vanishing Cross or Captive Queens in some regions. The cross-shaped tableau layout inspired these alternate names.