On National Solitaire Day on May 22, let’s acknowledge the brilliance behind the game of solitaire and how it helped entertain us for years. There is so much history behind the game and numerous fun facts! Here’s all you need to know.
History of National Solitaire Day
Remember the hours spent playing solitaire after it was launched on Microsoft Windows in 1990? Well, you aren’t alone in your obsession with this card game, since there are over 242 million people from over 200 countries who are equally addicted to it. However, solitaire wasn’t solely created as a fun game by Microsoft. It was created to teach people how to use the mouse attached to computers and train them to become accustomed to the device. Today, solitaire is one of the most beloved and viral PC games known to mankind and, seeing how it is played by millions of people across the globe, it seems like the trend of solitaire is going to continue for years to come.
Due to the popularity of the game, Microsoft declared May 22 as National Solitaire Day in 2018. The purpose of the day is to recognize the card game that has reigned supreme for over 30 years by hosting large-scale celebrations. The National Solitaire Day event itself has gained a lot of traction in the past few years and even broke records of the most games of solitaire ever played in one day in 2020. Other official commemorations of the event by Microsoft include special surprises for the players, a double XP bonus in the game on Windows and mobiles, and video testimonials recorded for the purpose of honoring fans. Solitaire was also honored in the Video Game Hall of Fame in 2019.
National Solitaire Day timeline
The board game Peg Solitaire is all the rage.
The solitaire card game is introduced in Europe.
Klondike, a variation of Solitaire, becomes popular.
An intern develops the solitaire software for Microsoft.
National Solitaire Day FAQs
Can I play solitaire on Xbox?
Solitaire is mostly installed on Windows PCs but is now available on Xbox One.
Is solitaire always solvable?
This particular card game requires skill.
Is every game of solitaire winnable?
Around 80% of solitaire games are winnable based on your skills.
National Solitaire Day Activities
Play the game online
The easiest way to celebrate the day is to get on your computer and play the game online. And yes, you can play solitaire for hours without being judged today.
Have a solitaire match with friends
Play the game online or in-person with friends. All you have to do is arrange a time and host different matches.
Host a solitaire-themed party
Have some fun with the day and host a solitaire-themed party. You can get really creative with the decor, food items, and costumes.
5 Fun Facts About Solitaire
A second name
Solitaire is also known as ‘Patience.’
The highest score
The top solitaire score is 24,113.
The Latin name
The name originated from the Latin word ‘solitarius’, meaning ‘alone’.
Professional solitaire player
A woman made $250,000 playing solitaire.
Different variations of the game
Solitaire has five variations — this includes Klondike, FreeCell, Spider, TriPeaks, and Pyramid.
Why We Love National Solitaire Day
It boosts the memory
To ace the game, it is essential to keep a track of the colors, suits, and numbers of the cards. Therefore, players experience an improvement in memory.
Helps in developing strategic skills
Like every other game, solitaire can’t be formed without a strategy. Hence, those who play the game often are feeding their brain with the ability to form quick strategies.
Solitaire calms the mind
Since a lot of concentration is required to play the game, solitaire players often tend to focus on the game and end up forgetting about the troubles of life. The state of being in the present reduces anxiety and calms the mind.
National Solitaire Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | May 22 | Wednesday |
| 2025 | May 22 | Thursday |
| 2026 | May 22 | Friday |
| 2027 | May 22 | Saturday |
| 2028 | May 22 | Monday |
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