What Is TriPeaks Solitaire?
TriPeaks (also known as Tri Towers or Three Peaks) is a fast-paced solitaire variant where the goal is to clear three pyramid-shaped peaks of cards. Created by Robert Hogue in 1989, TriPeaks combines elements of both Golf Solitaire and Pyramid Solitaire into an accessible and addictive game.
The game is known for its quick rounds and relatively high win rate, making it perfect for casual play.
How to Play TriPeaks
Setup
- Three peaks are formed from 28 cards arranged in overlapping rows. The bottom row has 10 face-up cards. The rows above have progressively fewer cards, all face-down until uncovered.
- Stock pile: The remaining 24 cards.
- Waste pile: One card turned face-up to start the game.
Rules
- Remove cards from the peaks by selecting any uncovered card that is one rank higher or lower than the top card on the waste pile.
- Suits do not matter — only the card value counts.
- Aces and Kings wrap — you can play a King on an Ace and vice versa.
- Draw from the stock if no moves are available.
- A card is uncovered when both cards overlapping it have been removed.
- You win when all three peaks are completely cleared.
Example Moves
If the waste pile shows a 7, you can play a 6 or an 8 from the peaks. If you play an 8, you can then play a 7 or a 9, and so on.
TriPeaks Scoring
Scoring in TriPeaks rewards long chains of consecutive moves:
| Action | Points |
|---|---|
| First card in a chain | 1 point |
| Second card | 2 points |
| Third card | 3 points |
| Each additional card | +1 point (cumulative) |
| Clear a peak | 15 bonus points |
| Clear all three peaks | 30 bonus points |
| Draw from stock | Resets chain to 0 |
Building long chains without drawing from the stock is the key to high scores.
TriPeaks Strategy
Tip 1: Build Long Chains
The scoring system heavily rewards consecutive moves. Before playing the first available card, look ahead to see which choice leads to the longest possible chain.
Tip 2: Prioritize the Peaks
Focus on removing cards from the tops of the three peaks first. Peak cards block the most other cards, so clearing them opens up the most new moves.
Tip 3: Uncover Face-Down Cards
Each face-down card you reveal is a new opportunity. Prioritize moves that expose hidden cards.
Tip 4: Save the Stock
Draw from the stock only when absolutely necessary. Each time you draw, your chain bonus resets to zero.
Tip 5: Watch the Edges
Cards at the edges of the peaks overlap fewer cards and are easier to access. Focus on the center and top cards that block the most cards.
Are All TriPeaks Games Winnable?
Approximately 90% of TriPeaks games are winnable. The high win rate makes TriPeaks one of the more forgiving solitaire variants, though achieving a perfect high score requires skill and planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the highest possible score in TriPeaks?
The highest score depends on clearing all peaks in the longest possible chains without drawing from the stock. Scores of 100+ are considered excellent.
Is TriPeaks easier than Klondike?
Generally yes — TriPeaks has a higher win rate (~90% vs ~80%) and games tend to be shorter and faster-paced.
Can you play Kings on Aces in TriPeaks?
Yes — in TriPeaks, card values wrap around, so Kings and Aces are considered adjacent.