Frequently asked questions about the Jeu du Boulanger
What is the difference between the Jeu du Boulanger and FreeCell?
Only one rule changes: in the tableau, a card is placed on the card one rank higher and of the same suit, for example the 9 of hearts on the 10 of hearts. In FreeCell, you must instead alternate red and black. Everything else is the same: 8 columns, 4 free cells, 4 foundations, all cards visible.
Can every deal be won?
No. According to Wikipedia (in English), out of 10 million 4-free-cell deals studied by a program, about 74% have a solution, far fewer than in FreeCell. The app doesn't show whether a deal is winnable: the deals on the Examples page, however, have a verified solution.
How many cards can be moved at once?
A sequence of the same suit, at most (free cells + 1) × 2 to the power of (empty columns). With 4 free cells and no empty column, that's 5 cards; with one more empty column, 10. If you place the group in an empty column, that column doesn't count.
Why don't cards go up to the foundations on their own?
In the app, no card goes to the foundations on its own: you stay in control of every move. A single tap on a top card sends it to its foundation when allowed. A double tap also looks for a column or a free cell.
What does the game code mean?
The code, for example BK1-C4-AAAAA24, identifies a specific deal. C4 indicates the number of free cells and the last 7 characters identify the deal. Paste this code into the app: you get exactly the same game, on any device.
Can you play with fewer than four free cells?
Yes. The New game window offers 4, 2 or 1 free cell; the removed cells disappear from the board. With only 1 free cell and no empty column, a group can't exceed 2 cards: you have to plan further ahead.
Can you undo a move or take a card back from a foundation?
You can undo: the app keeps the last 100 actions, and undoing a move also removes the points it earned. However, a card placed on a foundation can only come back off it by undoing that move.