Agnes

Dynamic Base Rank • Alternating Logic • The Thinking Person's Klondike
Agnes Solitaire

Agnes Solitaire (specifically Agnes Bernauer) is a sophisticated Klondike-style game where the foundation starting rank is determined by the first card dealt. It removes the predictability of starting with Aces, requiring players to build sequences that wrap around the deck. It is a perfect challenge for those who find standard solitaire too easy.

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How to Play

1

The Foundation Base

One card is dealt to the first foundation. This rank (e.g., a Seven) becomes the starting point for all four foundations. You must build up by suit, wrapping from King to Ace as needed.

2

Tableau Building

Build the seven tableau piles down in alternating colors (e.g., a Black 5 on a Red 6). You can move full or partial sequences of cards if they follow this alternating rule.

3

Empty Spaces

When a tableau column becomes empty, you can only fill it with a card that is one rank lower than the foundation's base rank. If the base is 7, only 6s can fill empty spots!

4

Dealing the Stock

Unlike Klondike, Agnes deals cards from the stock directly into seven reserve piles (one below each tableau column). All reserve cards are available to be played onto the tableau or foundations.

Card Room Notes

What is the base rank?
The base rank is the value of the very first card moved to the foundations at the start of the deal. If it's a 9, all foundations must start with a 9 of their respective suits.

Sequence Building:
Agnes follows the "Build Down, Alternating Color" rule for the tableau, making it feel familiar to Klondike players, but with much tighter movement constraints.