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Eagle Wing Solitaire, also known as “Thirteen Down,” isn’t just another card game. It’s a test of wits, patience, and strategy. The layout? Stunning—like the open wings of an eagle. The challenge? Immense. With only a 5% win rate, this game will push you to your limits. Ready to soar?
How to Set Up Eagle Wing Solitaire
Getting started is simple. All you need is a standard 52-card deck. Follow these steps:
Shuffle the Deck: Give it a good mix.
Build the Eagle:
- Deal 13 cards face down in a pile. This is the “body.”
- Place 8 cards face up on each side of the body (4 on the left and 4 on the right). These are the “wings.”
- Deal 1 card face up above the body to start the first foundation pile.
- Create the Draw Pile: Stack the remaining cards face down.
Pro tip? If any cards in the wings match the foundation card’s rank, move them immediately to the foundation. Then refill those spaces with cards from the body pile.
How to Play Eagle Wing Solitaire
Eagle Wing
The goal? Build foundation piles in ascending order, starting with the initial card and cycling back around. Example: If the first foundation card is 7♠, you’ll build 7, 8, 9… all the way to 6.
Gameplay Rules
Start Building Foundations:
- Move cards from the wings, draw pile, or waste pile to the foundation when they fit.
- Example: If the foundation is 7♠, add any other 7s you uncover.
- Draw Cards One at a Time:
- Pull a card from the draw pile.
- If it fits on a foundation, place it. If not, discard it to the waste pile.
Refill Wing Spaces:
- Whenever a card from the wings is moved, refill the empty space with a card from the body pile.
- If the body pile runs out, use cards from the draw pile or waste pile instead.
Handle the Body Pile Carefully:
When only one card remains in the body pile, turn it face up. This card won’t fill wing spaces but stays in play.
Recycling the Waste Pile:
When the draw pile is empty, shuffle the waste pile to create a new draw pile. But here’s the catch: If you reshuffle three times, game over.
Tips to Boost Your Winning Chances
This game is tough, but these strategies can tilt the odds in your favor:
- Plan Ahead: Think before you move. Each move should open up new opportunities.
- Prioritize Foundation Matches: Uncover and move cards that match the foundation rank first.
- Be Smart with Draws: Use draw and waste pile cards wisely. Avoid blocking key plays.
- Focus on the Body Pile Early: Clearing the body pile gives you more options for refilling wings.
Also Read: Dai Fugō: The Card Game That Will Make You A Grand Millionaire
Why Eagle Wing Solitaire is Worth Trying
What makes this game stand out? It’s not just a card game. It’s an adventure. The beautiful eagle-shaped layout, combined with its strategic demands, offers a unique experience. And unlike other solitaire games, there’s no tableau building—making every win feel like a hard-earned triumph.
The good news? The sense of accomplishment is unbeatable. Every move counts. Every card matters.
Extra Ideas to Make It Fun
Looking to spice things up? Try these:
- Play Against the Clock: Set a timer to add some pressure.
- Track Your Progress: Keep a log of your attempts. Can you improve your win rate?
- Use Themed Decks: Wildlife- or galaxy-themed cards add extra flair.
Conclusion
Eagle Wing Solitaire is more than just a game—it’s a battle of strategy and endurance. Whether you win or lose, the journey is always thrilling. So, grab a deck and challenge yourself. The eagle’s wings are waiting. Can you master the flight?
