Frequently asked questions about FreeCell
Is every FreeCell deal winnable?
Almost all, but not all. According to Wikipedia, only one of the 32 000 numbered deals in the first Windows version, no. 11982, has no solution. The app generates its deals differently, with a game code, and does not indicate whether a deal is winnable; the deals on the Examples page do have verified solutions.
What is the difference between a free cell and an empty column?
A cell holds a single card. An empty column accepts any card or sequence, and it doubles the size of the groups you can move at once: with 4 free cells, the limit increases from 5 to 10 cards. That is why an empty column is worth more than a cell.
How many cards can be moved at once?
At most (free cells + 1) × 2 to the power of (empty columns). With 4 free cells and no empty columns, that is 5 cards; with one additional empty column, 10. If you move the group into an empty column, that column does not count.
Why don't cards go up to the foundations on their own?
In the app, no card moves to the foundations automatically: this is a design choice to keep you in control. A card that is still useful in the tableau is therefore never removed without your action. Tapping a card once attempts to send it to its foundation.
What does the game code mean?
The code, for example FC1-C4-AAAAAKH, identifies a specific deal. C4 indicates the number of cells, and the last 7 characters identify the deal. Paste this code into the app’s New Game window to get exactly the same game on any device.
Can you play with fewer than four free cells?
Yes. The New Game window lets you play with 4, 2 or 1 cells; removed cells disappear from the board. With just 1 free cell and no empty columns, a group cannot exceed 2 cards: you need to plan further ahead.
Can you undo a move or take a card back from a foundation?
Yes to both. The app keeps the last 100 actions, and undoing also removes the points earned by the undone move. You can also drag the top card of a foundation back to the tableau: this is a feature of this app, not a general rule of FreeCell.