Patience, also known as Solitaire in some regions, is a genre of single-player card games. The objective in most Patience games is to build ordered stacks of cards, often by suit, onto foundations, using a tableau of faced-up and faced-down cards. The name "Patience" reflects the skill and perseverance required to successfully complete the game.
Patience games vary significantly in their rules, layout, and difficulty. Some are highly solvable with skillful play, while others rely more heavily on luck. Common variants include Klondike, FreeCell, Spider Solitaire, and Pyramid. These variations differ in the number of cards used, the arrangement of the tableau, the rules for moving cards, and the number of foundation piles.
The origins of Patience are debated, but the game is believed to have emerged in the late 18th century. It gained popularity in the 19th century and has since become a widely played and enjoyed pastime. The advent of computers and digital devices further boosted its popularity, with numerous digital versions available.
Strategic thinking, planning, and knowledge of the specific rules of the variant being played are crucial for successful Patience play. Understanding card relationships and planning sequences of moves ahead of time can significantly increase the chances of winning.