Microsoft Solitaire has been played by over 500 million players worldwide since its launch in 1990 as part of Windows 3.0. It was inducted into the World Video Game Hall of Fame in 2019. The game has been localized into 65 languages and is available on various devices, despite no longer being pre-installed on Windows computers. Originally designed to help users learn mouse functionality, Solitaire became a popular choice for players seeking a break from daily life. With the release of Windows XP in 2001, online competition emerged, but traditional Solitaire remained popular. In 2015, Microsoft released Solitaire as a downloadable app within the Windows Store, including classic modes and new challenges. The game has inspired various adaptations and alternatives, while some players, like Ariana Torrey, continue to appreciate its nostalgic simplicity.