How to Play Canfield
Canfield is a classic single-player patience (solitaire) that rewards patience and planning. This beginner guide from Playmore focuses on the reserve pile and the idea that the foundations start at a variable rank, which makes Canfield feel different from Klondike.
Quick facts
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Game | Canfield |
| Family | American patience (solitaire) |
| Typical players | 1 |
| Deck | One standard 52-card deck |
| Beginner focus | Reserve pile and variable starting foundation rank |
What you are trying to do
Your main goal is to build four foundation piles, one per suit, starting at a rank that can change each game. Use cards from the reserve, tableau, and the stock/waste to place cards onto the foundations. The reserve is the special part of Canfield that gives you extra choices, so learning how to use it is key.
What you need and how to set up
You need one normal 52-card deck. The basic setup gives you a small reserve pile, a few tableau columns, a stock, and space for four foundation piles. The exact number of cards in each area and which card sets the first foundation rank can vary by version, so check the authoritative rules for the exact layout your group prefers.
How to play
- Look at the base card that sets the starting rank for the foundations. That rank tells you what the first foundation card should be for each suit in this game.
- Use any cards that legally belong on the foundations first. You can move suitable top cards from the reserve, tableau columns, or the waste pile to the foundations.
- Turn cards from the stock into the waste when you need new playable cards. The waste gives you fresh choices to move to the tableau or foundations.
- Rearrange the tableau to expose useful cards. You can move single top cards and, in many versions, build sequences to help free cards needed on the foundations.
- When tableau spaces open, fill them according to your version’s rule. Some groups allow only certain cards to fill empty columns; others let you place any available card. Check your version.
- Keep moving cards to the foundations whenever possible. The reserve is a limited resource you should use carefully to unlock more moves.
How a round or game ends
The game ends when you either complete all four foundation piles up to the final rank for that play or no more legal moves remain. Exact winning conditions and whether you can redeal the stock depend on the version you’re playing, so confirm rules before you start.
Beginner tips
- Make the foundations your priority. Every card that goes there frees space in the reserve and tableau.
- Protect reserve cards you might need later. Don’t empty the reserve too quickly unless it helps build the foundations.
- Expose buried cards in the tableau by carefully moving sequences or single cards. Hidden high-value cards are often the key to finishing.
- When in doubt, draw from the stock. The waste can give you new ways to connect cards between tableau and foundations.
- Agree on the exact local rules (fill rules, redeals, sequence moves) before starting. Small rule changes can make the game much easier or harder.
FAQ
Do I need a special deck?
No. Canfield uses a standard 52-card deck. You don’t need any special cards or purchases.
How is Canfield different from Klondike?
Two big differences are the dedicated reserve pile and that the foundations start at a variable rank instead of always beginning at an Ace. These change how you plan moves.
Where can I find the exact rules for my version?
Canfield has regional and house variations. Check the authoritative rules for the version you want to play so you know the exact setup, filling rules, and redeal options.