Remembering Windows Built-In Games; The Nostalgic Gems No Longer Around

Although there are many operating systems for PC today, Microsoft Windows remains a definitive option for many casual users. Although it’s not the most lightweight or optimized OS, Windows’ ease of use and personalization remain second to none. However, this platform has undergone drastic changes over the years, and not every change has been welcome.

I still remember the good old days of my Pentium 4, majestically running Windows XP and being my gaming monster (hard to believe how things have changed). It was my first OS, and one amazing experience, I must say. But what I miss the most is stumbling across Pinball and having the time of my life, and spending hours trying to figure out how the hell do you play this Minesweeper.

The Peak Era Of Windows Built-In Games

“The new Windows is not as impressive as the old one” is an argument ongoing ever since the early days of this operating system. There are some exceptions, like Windows 7 and 10 (Coming from 8, I just said good riddance). You must have heard many logical points regarding this, but today, let me raise a point seldom said but highly important; these guys got rid of my beloved Windows built-in games, and I’ll never forgive them.

Where’s my Freecell? Minesweeper? Pinball? Windows 7 was arguably the best, and beyond all its responsiveness, interactivity, and user-friendly interface, I could just boot up Purble Place to make a few cakes when I was feeling down. A good Solitaire session was a great way to pass the time, and the Chess was just sublime. Playing these short but sweet games just invoked the kid in me, even back then.

Windows 7 games look and feel like they were made for Windows 11!!!
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And don’t even get me started on Windows XP. I know these games were nothing special, and you could find better stuff, but they hold a special place in my heart. More than just individually, these games represent that whole era free of any worries; just casually gaming and having fun. Their nostalgic value is unbeatable. The fact that they came with some of the most impressive Windows in history is a cherry on top.

The Decline Of Windows

I consider Windows 7 to be the peak of this OS. After that, things just went downhill in more ways than one. Windows 8 was a complete tablet PC abomination. I breathed a sigh of relief when 10 came around. It was magnificent, a true successor to Windows 7, but I still preferred the latter. And of course, Windows 11 is here now, but you and I both know how it’s riddled with problems right now.

Above all, the loss of Windows’ built-in games is a travesty. I know what you’re thinking, can’t you just download some from the Microsoft store? Well, it’s not the same. The classic built-in games held nostalgic value. They weren’t something you actively sought, but by always being there, they sprang up in your mind the moment you most needed them. The Internet just went out? No other game to play? A game is downloading/installing? Boot these gems up to pass the time.

This is why we remember them so fondly. These games were there for us in times of need, and their loss is a grave one. Besides, the Microsoft Solitaire Collection on the store is nothing compared to these classics. I often see myself playing Solitaire Paradise instead to pass the time these days. Regardless, all of us have different complaints regarding this OS’s evolution, but mine is this one.

Some Changes Are Needed

At this point, all we can do is revel in the sweet nostalgia, but that doesn’t change the fact that Microsoft needs to step up its game. The many issues plaguing Windows 11 need to be sorted out, and fast. The recent SSD-frying debacle did some irreversible damage to the OS’s reputation.

My Experience with The Windows 11 Update That "Breaks" SSDs and My Theory
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We need a revival of Windows 7’s greatness. Nothing but peak user experience, smooth working, simple yet elegant, free of AI spyware, all this would be a dream. As I mentioned, Windows is still the easiest-to-use OS, and I don’t think that’s changing anytime soon. But gamers have the option of a much better and stable OS now, like the Steam Deck, for example. Microsoft can’t afford more misses now. We need improvements, and if the revival of classic built-in games is one of those, I’ll be one happy customer.