Solitaire game
Solitaire is a card game for one person. Solitaire helps train memory and develop logical thinking skills. At the same time, the slow placement of cards helps to relax and relieve stress.
Game history
It is believed that Solitaire was first invented by prisoners in French jails. This fascinating game caught the interest of their guards, quickly spread among noble servants, and eventually reached the chambers of King Louis XIV. Solitaire united different social classes; in the 18th century, both aristocrats and commoners played this game.
Although the dominant theory is that the game originated in France, some believe it has German or Scandinavian roots. British historian David Parlett suggests that Solitaire was originally a card game for two players.
In the United States and Canada, Solitaire is known as "Klondike" and has remained the most popular Solitaire variant for many years. The trend of playing Solitaire was brought to North America by Europeans in the late 19th century. During the Klondike Gold Rush, card games were one of the few forms of entertainment for fortune seekers.
The computer version of the game was developed in 1988 by Wes Cherry, an intern at Microsoft. The card design was suggested by a graphic designer from Apple. Solitaire was created to help beginner users get accustomed to using a mouse.
Today, such training is no longer necessary, but Solitaire has not lost its popularity. The game was included in the Windows 95 operating system and later versions. It was removed from Windows 8 but was reintroduced in Windows 10 in 2015.
The most popular variations of Solitaire are: double, reverse, white, Napoleon, gladiator, and Batsford.
Interesting facts
- About 35 million people worldwide play Solitaire regularly. Every day, this card game is played approximately 100 million times.
- Although the official 30th anniversary of computer Solitaire was celebrated in 2020, the game is actually two years older. Its creator, Wes Cherry, did not receive a single dollar for his work since he had no official contract with Microsoft and did not register any rights. Today, he lives near Seattle, runs an apple orchard, and produces a cider called Dragons Head Cider.
- Solitaire once had a special "boss key" that hid the game from a manager’s view. Employers complained that the game distracted employees from work. Today, many Western companies encourage 20-minute breaks with Solitaire, as it helps to relieve stress.
- Until 1990, Bill Gates considered Solitaire too difficult and doubted it would attract many users.
Playing Solitaire is not just an entertaining way to pass the time. The game improves memory, helps shift focus, and provides a fresh perspective on everyday challenges. Play Solitaire online and discover the benefits of this game!
