How to Play TriPeaks 101: A Guide
In 1989, Robert Hogue invented the game TriPeaks Solitaire. While it shares similarities with other Solitaire games, it's safe to say it’s much easier than Spider Solitaire and a bit more challenging than Klondike Solitaire (i.e., classic Solitaire). Over the decades, this fun, fast-paced variant of Solitaire has grown in popularity.
Now it’s your turn to learn how to play Tripeaks. When you finish reading this article, you will know: - The object of Tripeaks - Step-by-Step Instructions for playing TriPeaks - The best Tripeaks strategies - Where to play Tripeaks on your iPhone or Android Are you ready to start? Continue reading to learn the ins and outs of TriPeaks gameplay.
The Object of TriPeaks Solitaire
The goal of Tripeaks Solitaire is to move every playing card from the tableau (or the “peaks”) to the waste pile. That can be accomplished by uncovering cards from the tableau that are one number above or below the current card in the waste pile. The game is over when you have “destroyed” all three peaks.
What Kind of Solitaire is Tripeaks?
Tripeaks is a mixture of Golf Solitaire, Pyramid Solitaire, and a touch of Spider Solitaire. It’s fast-paced requires some strategy and a touch of luck. If you want more mental stimulation than classic Solitaire, but aren’t ready for the rigors of Spider, then Tripeaks may be the game for you.
Step-by-Step Instructions For Playing Tripeaks
You only need one standard deck of 52 cards (no Jokers) and a little bit of table space to play the game. Or, if you'd like to play on your phone, you just need the right app. Learn basic Tri-Peaks instructions below.
Step One: Game Setup and Dealing Cards
First, shuffle your playing cards. Then, deal three cards into separate piles. This is the start of your “peaks” (or tableau). Be sure to keep the cards face down (and not look at them) when dealing to the tableau.
Step Two: Build Your Pyramids
Now it’s time to build your pyramids (also called “tri towers” or “three peaks”). Place two face down cards underneath the first card. Next, place three more playing cards under them. The cards should slightly overlap the level above. Thus, forming a triangle shape. Repeat this step for each of the three cards you placed in step one. Pro Tip: At this point, your pyramids should be close to each other but not touching.
Next, build the last level of cards to connect the triangles. The last row of each pyramid should contain four cards (12 in total). These cards connect the peaks. Further, each of the cards on the last row should be dealt face up. All leftover cards should be set aside. They are now your stock pile.
Step Three: Play a Card From The Stockpile
Now that you’re set-up, you can start playing. The first step is to flip over one card from the stockpile. The turned-over card is the beginning of your waste/discard pile.
Like Klondike Solitaire, the stock cards determine which cards you should play next. However, one significant difference is that you move cards from the pyramid (i.e., tableau) to the “waste,” not from it. The object is to remove every card from the peaks into the waste pile.
Step Four: Move Cards to the Waste Pile
Carefully look over your three peaks. Search for cards that are one rank or number above the last card in the stockpile. For example, if the face up card on the stock is a 7 of Hearts, the only cards you can move to the waste are 6’s or 8’s (any suit). Further, it’s important to note that Aces can be played as high cards, low cards, or player’s choice, a.k.a. wild cards.
Step Five: Flip Cards When They’re Available
When the cards beneath a card on the pyramids are removed, you can flip that card over. For example, if you remove every card from the last row of the first peak, you can flip the cards on the third level of the first peak. However, keep in mind that if a card is still bordered by a card underneath it, it can’t be turned over.
Step Six: Use Cards in the Stock Pile When Necessary
Suppose you can’t make any moves based on the cards in the peaks or the face up card in the stock. In that case, you can flip over another stock card to open up new possibilities. You can draw from the stockpile as much as necessary, but once the card is placed in the waste, it can’t be used again.
In most games, once you cycle through the stockpile one time (i.e., turn all of the cards over), the game ends. However, in other variants of Tripeaks, you can go through the stock multiple times.
Winning a TriPeaks Game
Triple Peaks gameplay can end in two ways: You can move all of your cards from the tableau to the waste pile, or you run out of moves. You’re out of allowable actions when you’ve exhausted the stock but still have cards left in your pyramid.
Most online versions of Tripeaks use a point system. Typically, players receive bonus points for each peak they destroy. In many cases, the game is timed as well. So, the faster you empty your peaks, the more points are awarded.
Is Every TriPeaks Game Winnable?
If you’re playing an online Tripeaks solitaire card game that incorporates daily challenges or winning deals, then yes, all games are solvable. However, if you’re playing at home or with a randomly generated deck, then some games are unsolvable. If you deal a game that can’t be solved, it’s best to just re-deal and start over.
Is There a Strategy to TriPeaks?
Winning a game of Tripeaks requires a little “luck of the draw” and a bit of strategy. Generally, the best strategies to earn the most points and win a game include:
- Don’t pay attention to the colors. Remember, the only thing that matters is the number of the cards (i.e., one number higher or one number lower).
- Remember to use both high and low cards. Don’t get stuck trying to build your waste pile in ascending or descending order. Choose the best method that helps you clear the board for individual moves.
- Focus on one area of the board at a time. Randomly removing cards can lead to early blocks. Further, try to focus your efforts on cards that will help to reveal additional cards.
- Concentrate and exercise patience. Take your time, and search for the right moves. Since a Tripeaks Solitaire game is a faster-paced game than other types of Solitaire, it’s much easier to make a simple mistake.
- Build as many long sequences as you can. In many games, the longer the sequences of removed cards, the more points you’ll receive.
Where to Play Tripeaks On Your Android or iPhone
Now that you know how to play Tripeaks, it’s time to put your knowledge and skills to the test. Listed below are some of the most popular Tripeaks games in the Android and iPhone app store: - TriPeaks - Classic TriPeaks Solitaire with a chance to earn real prizes - TriPeaks Solitaire Tournament - Test your skills head-to-head in Tripeaks tournaments to earn real prizes - Solitaire TriPeaks Blitz! - A unique Wildlife Adventures e-sport version of Tripeaks - TriPeaks Solitaire Cube - Head-to-head Tri-Peaks with a twist (including best-in-class animation and fast touch controls) - Golf Solitaire Tripeaks - Golf Solitaire meets TriPeaks in this competitive puzzle game
Are you ready to get started? Dive in and enjoy our unique selection of Tripeaks games on your phone today. Play head-to-head against the world’s best players for your chance to win real rewards and prizes (where available). Get started now!
Websites Consulted / Researched:
http://www.solitairecity.com/Tri-Peaks.shtml
https://www.wikihow.com/Play-TriPeaks-Solitaire
https://www.mobilityware.com/post/how-to-play-tripeaks-the-card-game
