Australian Patience

Introduction to Australian Patience

Australian Patience, sometimes known as Aussie Patience, is a classic single-player card game that combines the structural setup of Klondike Solitaire with the open-tableau gameplay of Yukon Solitaire. Despite its name, the origins of the game are unclear, but it has earned a reputation as one of the more difficult patience games to win, demanding careful planning and a bit of luck.

The objective is simple: move all 52 cards from the tableau and stock pile to the four foundation piles, building each suit up from Ace to King.

Setup and Equipment

Australian Patience uses a standard 52-card deck with no jokers. Setting up the game correctly is essential before play begins.

How to Deal the Cards

• Deal seven tableau columns, with four cards in each column, all face-up.
• The remaining 24 cards form the stock pile, placed face-down to the side.
• Reserve four empty foundation spaces above the tableau, one for each suit.
• Unlike Klondike, there are no reserve or waste piles to manage initially.

Rules of Play

The gameplay revolves around moving cards strategically across the tableau and into the foundations. Understanding the movement rules is key to success.

Tableau Movement

• Cards in the tableau are built down by suit (e.g., a 9 of Hearts goes on a 10 of Hearts).
• Any card or group of cards can be moved together, regardless of order, similar to Yukon Solitaire.
• Only a King may be placed in an empty tableau column.

Foundation Building

• Foundations are built up by suit, starting with the Ace and ending with the King.
• Once a card is placed on the foundation, it generally stays there for the rest of the game.

Using the Stock Pile

• When no moves are available, draw one card at a time from the stock pile.
• Drawn cards are placed on a waste pile and the top card is playable.
• There is typically no redeal, making each card draw critical.

Winning Strategy and Tips

Australian Patience has a relatively low win rate, so smart play is essential. Players should prioritize uncovering hidden opportunities and avoid moves that block future plays.

Key Strategic Tips

• Always plan several moves ahead before committing to a play.
• Try to free up Aces and low-value cards as quickly as possible.
• Keep at least one tableau column open when feasible to maneuver Kings.
• Avoid burning through the stock pile too quickly without a clear purpose.
• Build sequences carefully so that you don't trap important cards.

Pros and Cons of Australian Patience

Like any solitaire variant, Australian Patience has its strengths and weaknesses. Here's a balanced look at what makes it appealing and what may frustrate players.

Pros

• Highly strategic gameplay that rewards careful thinking.
• Quick to set up with just a standard deck of cards.
• Combines familiar mechanics from Klondike and Yukon for a fresh experience.
• Excellent for sharpening planning and decision-making skills.
• Replayable due to varying deals and outcomes.

Cons

• Low win rate can be discouraging for casual players.
• No redeal option makes the game unforgiving of mistakes.
• Requires more concentration than simpler solitaire games.
• Less widely available in physical and digital card collections compared to Klondike.

Conclusion

Australian Patience is an excellent choice for solitaire enthusiasts looking for a deeper, more strategic challenge. While its difficulty may not suit everyone, those who enjoy thinking several moves ahead will find it a rewarding test of skill. With practice, the game becomes a satisfying mental exercise that goes far beyond luck.