The term “FreeCell” is derived from the four empty cells above the tableau which are used to store cards temporarily. Unlike most of the other solitaire games, all cards in FreeCell Solitaire are dealt face-up, allowing the player to make logical decisions without having to guess. Since the player can analyze the outcomes of moves before making them, almost all FreeCell games can be won with strategic play.
Over the years, there have been similar games, but the modern version of FreeCell was invented by Paul Alfille, who implemented the first computerized version of the game in 1978.