Crescent Solitaire

Crescent Solitaire is a visually elegant card game that uses two full decks (104 cards) arranged in a unique crescent-shaped layout around eight foundation piles. The game challenges players to move all cards from the 16 tableau piles onto the foundations by building sequences both up and down by suit.

With its distinctive layout featuring ascending (Ace to King) and descending (King to Ace) foundation piles, Crescent Solitaire offers a strategic experience that rewards careful planning and foresight. The game's classic design and satisfying mechanics make it a favorite among solitaire enthusiasts.

Who Created Crescent Solitaire?

Crescent Solitaire evolved from the 19th-century card game La Belle Lucie, first documented by Lady Adelaide Cadogan in 1870. The game has been adapted into numerous digital versions and remains a staple in solitaire game collections worldwide. Its French nickname "La Demi-Lune" (half-moon) references the curved tableau arrangement.

How to Play Crescent Solitaire

Understanding the Layout

The game features 16 tableau piles arranged in a crescent shape, each containing 6 face-up cards. In the center, 8 foundation piles await: 4 starting with Kings (build down to Aces) and 4 starting with Aces (build up to Kings).

Key Gameplay Rules

• Move only the top card from each tableau pile
• Build on tableau piles by suit, either one rank higher or lower
• Wrapping is allowed: Kings can go on Aces and vice versa
• Use the shuffle/redeal feature (typically 3 times) when stuck—this moves the bottom card of each pile to the top

Winning Strategy

Building both ascending and descending sequences within the tableau helps prepare cards for both types of foundation piles. Peek beneath top cards by dragging them aside to plan moves ahead.

Game Controls

• Mouse Click/Tap: Select and move cards
• Drag and Drop: Move cards between piles
• Shuffle Button: Rotate bottom cards to top (limited uses)

Outstanding Features

• Dual Foundation Building: Work on ascending and descending piles simultaneously
• Strategic Depth: Requires planning several moves ahead
• Reshuffle Mechanic: Unique feature that rotates cards within piles
• Classic Elegance: Beautiful crescent layout with two full decks

Tips and Tricks for Better Scores

• Always peek at cards beneath before making moves
• Build foundation piles evenly to maintain options
• Save reshuffles for when truly stuck
• Move cards between foundations when it helps unlock tableau cards

Where to Play Crescent Solitaire Online

You can play Crescent Solitaire online for free on [playunoonline.io](https://playunoonline.io/crescent-solitaire). The game is fully compatible with desktop and mobile browsers, requiring no downloads or registration.

Conclusion

Crescent Solitaire is a beautifully designed card game that combines strategic thinking with the satisfaction of building ordered sequences. Whether you're a solitaire veteran or new to card games, its unique dual-direction building system provides an engaging challenge.