Introduction
Strike Solitaire is a unique and engaging card game that blends the classic mechanics of solitaire with the fun and excitement of bowling. Developed as a casual game, it offers players a fresh twist on traditional solitaire by setting the gameplay in a bowling-themed environment, such as hotels or resorts with bowling alleys.
The game typically features multiple levels—often 120 or more—divided into packs or “frames,” mimicking the structure of a bowling match. Each level challenges players to clear a set of cards from the game board, with the ultimate goal of removing special “skittle” or “gold” cards to score points and earn virtual money.
How to play
Game Setup
- The game begins with a tableau of cards laid out on the screen, some face-up and others face-down, arranged in columns or a scattered layout.
- A draw pile (deck) is available, usually located at the bottom or side of the screen, from which additional cards can be drawn.
- The goal of each level is to clear all cards, with a focus on removing 10 special cards (often called skittle cards or gold cards) that represent the “pins” in the bowling theme.
Matching cards
- To remove cards from the board, select pairs of cards that match in rank (e.g., two 6s, two Queens) regardless of suit. Some versions may require specific symbols (like a bowling ball and pin) to differentiate pairs, but generally, identical ranks are sufficient.
- Click or tap on two matching cards to remove them. These can be from the tableau, between the tableau and the draw pile, or within the draw and waste piles.
- Face-down cards are revealed as the cards above them are cleared, opening up new matching opportunities.
Using the draw pile
- If no matches are available on the tableau, draw cards from the deck. Typically, one or two cards are revealed at a time, depending on the version.
- Match these drawn cards with those on the tableau or with each other, if possible. Discarded cards may go to a waste pile, which can sometimes be reused.
Scoring and Bowling theme
- Clearibg the 10 special skittle/gold cards in a level earns you a “strike,” mirroring a perfect bowling frame.
- Points are awarded based on the cards you match, with higher scores for consecutive matches (streaks) or clearing the board quickly. Virtual money is also earned, which can be spent on in-game tools or bonuses.
- Each level represents a bowling frame, and completing all levels in a pack (e.g., 10 levels) advances you to the next bowling resort or location.
Tools and power-ups
- Jokers: Act as wild cards, matching with any card to form a pair.
- Extra slots: Allow you to temporarily move cards aside to uncover hidden ones.
- Shuffles: Rearrange the remaining cards on the tableau to create new matching opportunities.
- These tools can be purchased with in-game currency earned during play.
