ForeCell - Play Online Free
ForeCell is a FreeCell variant where 4 cards are dealt directly into the free cells at the start, leaving only 48 cards for the 8 tableau columns. Starting with occupied free cells changes the opening strategy dramatically, as you must immediately plan how to free up cell space.
How to Play ForeCell
Setup
Deal 48 cards face-up into 8 columns of 6 cards each. The remaining 4 cards are dealt face-up into all 4 free cells. All cards are visible from the start.
Rules
- All 48 tableau cards are dealt face-up into 8 columns.
- 4 cards start in the 4 free cells — no free cells are available at the start.
- Build tableau columns in descending rank with alternating colors.
- Any card can fill an empty tableau column.
- Build foundation piles from Ace to King by suit.
- The number of cards you can move at once depends on available free cells and empty columns.
Strategy Tips
- Your first priority is to free up the occupied free cells — look for ways to play those 4 cards to the tableau or foundations.
- If any of the initial free cell cards are Aces, immediately move them to foundations.
- With no free cells available at the start, your initial mobility is very limited — plan carefully.
- Empty columns become your primary workspace until you can free up cells.
- Once you clear even one free cell, your options expand significantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is ForeCell different from FreeCell?
The main difference is that all 4 free cells start occupied with cards, while standard FreeCell starts with all cells empty. This reduces your initial mobility and forces different opening strategies.
Is ForeCell harder than FreeCell?
Yes, ForeCell is harder because starting with full free cells severely limits early-game options. About 80-85% of deals are solvable compared to FreeCell's 99.99%.
What if I get a bad starting hand in the free cells?
The starting free cell cards are crucial. If they are low cards (Aces and Twos), you can quickly play them to foundations. High cards that do not fit easily in the tableau make the game much harder.