In Klondike Solitaire, an empty tableau column is a powerful asset. Only Kings can fill these spaces. However, choosing which King to place first is a decision that often determines whether the game can be finished.
The Scenario: Two Kings, One Space
You have successfully cleared a column. You have both a Red King (Hearts/Diamonds) and a Black King (Spades/Clubs) available in your waste pile or at the top of another column. Which one do you choose?
The "Checkerboard" Requirement
Solitaire requires alternating colors. A Red King must be followed by a Black Queen, then a Red Jack, and so on. Your choice of King dictates the entire color sequence for that column.
| King Color | Queen Needs | Jack Needs | Ten Needs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Red | Black | Red | Black |
| Black | Red | Black | Red |
Analyzing Your Tableau Needs
Before placing a King, scan your face-up cards and the cards buried in other columns.
1. Look for High-Rank "Blockers"
Do you have a Black Queen currently blocking a column? If so, you must place a Red King to give that Queen a place to go. Placing a Black King would leave that Black Queen trapped until you clear another column.
2. Check the "Tails" of Your Stacks
Look at the bottom card of your seven columns. If you have multiple Red Jacks needing a home, you need to ensure your King sequence eventually allows for a Red Jack.
The "Safe" King Hierarchy
Follow this priority list when deciding which King to move:
- Priority 1: The King that unlocks a Queen currently blocking a large stack of hidden cards.
- Priority 2: A King that is currently blocking hidden cards in its own column (move it to the empty column to reveal what is underneath).
- Priority 3: The King whose color matches the least common color of your high-rank tableau cards.
What if I don't see any Queens?
If no Queens are visible, wait before placing the King. Keeping the column empty allows you to move other cards around more freely. Only commit a King when you are certain it will help reveal new cards or consolidate existing stacks.