Pyramid Solitaire Pairs Guide: Which Cards Add to 13?

The Core Mechanic: Pairs That Sum to 13

Pyramid Solitaire is built around one simple rule: remove pairs of cards that add up to 13. This pairing mechanic gives the game its unique character and strategic depth.

Here is the complete reference for card values and valid pairs.

Card Values

• Ace = 1
• 2 through 10 = face value
• Jack = 11
• Queen = 12
• King = 13

All Valid Pairs

| Card A | Card B | Sum | |--------|--------|-----| | Queen (12) | Ace (1) | 13 | | Jack (11) | 2 | 13 | | 10 | 3 | 13 | | 9 | 4 | 13 | | 8 | 5 | 13 | | 7 | 6 | 13 | | King (13) | (removed alone) | 13 |

That is it — seven types of pairs plus Kings removed solo. Memorize this table and you will never have to calculate during gameplay.

Kings Are Special

Kings are the only card removed individually (not as part of a pair). Since Kings equal 13 by themselves, they do not need a partner. Always remove Kings immediately when they are exposed — they only block other cards and have no strategic value in the pyramid.

Finding Pairs Efficiently

Scan systematically. When looking for pairs, do not scan randomly. Instead, check each exposed card against all other exposed cards and the waste pile top. A systematic approach prevents you from missing available pairs.

Start from the bottom row. The seven cards in the bottom row are always exposed. Check these first for pairs, then work upward as cards are removed.

Remember the waste pile. The top card of the waste pile is always available for pairing. If no pyramid-to-pyramid pair exists, check if any exposed pyramid card pairs with the waste.

Strategic Pairing Tips

Do not make every available pair. Just because two cards can be paired does not mean you should pair them immediately. Sometimes a card is more useful for pairing with a different card that will be exposed later.

Count remaining partners. If you need to remove an 8 from the pyramid, count how many 5s are still available. If only one 5 remains and it is in the stock, you must wait for it.

Prioritize pairs that uncover blocking cards. Removing a pair from the lower rows exposes cards in the upper rows. Prefer pairs that uncover cards blocking the path to the pyramid apex.

Watch for chain reactions. Sometimes removing one pair exposes cards that form another pair, which exposes more cards. These chain reactions are the key to clearing the pyramid.

The Apex Card

The single card at the top of the pyramid is the final boss. If you cannot eventually remove it, you cannot win. Early in the game, identify what the apex card is and what its pairing partner needs to be. Then plan your moves around eventually reaching and pairing that card.

Common Mistakes

Pairing too eagerly. Removing the first pair you see, even when waiting would be more strategic.

Forgetting the stock. The waste pile top is always available for pairing. Check it every time before drawing a new card.

Ignoring card counting. If all four 6s are in the pyramid and you need to remove a 7, one of those 6s must be used. Planning which 6 to use and when is critical.

Giving up too early. Pyramid has a low win rate (~2%), but cycling through the stock can reveal new pairing opportunities. Exhaust your options before conceding.

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