Since as long as I can remember, all the way back to Windows 3.1, Solitaire has been included with Microsoft Windows. Sometimes it would be hidden, like on a default Windows 7 Professional install, but it never took much effort to get your first good, time-wasting game of Solitaire on a new computer.
So when a friend asked how to install Solitaire on Windows 8, I was like what? Hmmm, not in Control Panel, so I google it. I end up at this Microsoft Help Page which tries to make me feel good that it’s not already installed:
We know that games like Solitaire, Minesweeper, and Hearts have a devoted following. These games aren’t installed automatically with Windows 8.1, but you can download them for free from the Windows Store. We’ve added dazzling new visuals and daily challenges to Solitaire and Minesweeper to make them even better than before. And all three games are available to install on your PC for free.
Ok, that can’t be difficult plus it’s free. Just open up the store and click Install…
And then I get the screen below. I must Sign in to my Microsoft account. If I don’t have one, I must create one to install Solitaire on this computer. Are you kidding me?
After 20 minutes of coaching my friend on how to create a Microsoft account including clicking verification links on two separate e-mails, we’re finally able to install Solitaire. Phew, what a relief!
Good thing we don’t have to install Calculator from the Windows Store or I’d be really mad. Start > Run > Calc still works for now.
