What is the Win Rate for Klondike Solitaire (Turn 3)?
18-35% Win Rate
Klondike Turn 3 Solitaire (Draw 3) is the classic mode that was default in Windows Solitaire. It's significantly harder than Turn 1 due to restricted card access.
Why Turn 3 Has Lower Win Rates
Drawing three cards at a time means only every third card in the stock pile is immediately accessible:
- Limited access: You can only play 1 of every 3 stock cards directly
- Card "burial": The card you need might be hidden under two others
- Strategic depth: Requires planning 2-3 moves ahead to shift card accessibility
Historical Note
Turn 3 mode was the default in early Microsoft Solitaire, helping teach millions of computer users how to use a mouse through drag-and-drop mechanics. The harder difficulty made wins feel more rewarding!
Advanced Turn 3 Strategy
To improve your win rate in Turn 3:
- Track card positions: Know which cards are buried in groups of three
- Sometimes skip plays: Deliberately not playing a card can shift which cards become accessible
- Count passes: Know how many times you've cycled the stock to plan efficiently
- Empty columns wisely: They're even more valuable when card access is limited
Turn 1 vs Turn 3 Comparison
| Feature | Turn 1 | Turn 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Win Rate | 43-52% | 18-35% |
| Card Access | Every card | Every 3rd card |
| Skill Required | Medium | High |
| Best For | Beginners, casual play | Experienced players |