Solitaire is a popular card game that comes pre-installed on Windows 10. Sometimes, it may stop working or fail to open, which can be frustrating. Fortunately, there are several easy ways to fix this issue.
In this guide, we will walk you through simple, step-by-step solutions to get Solitaire running smoothly again. No technical experience is needed.
Each method starts with the easiest fixes and moves toward more advanced ones if the problem persists. This way, you won’t waste time on complicated steps unnecessarily.
By following this article, you should be able to enjoy Solitaire on your PC without issues.
Quick Note: Basic Checks Before Troubleshooting
- Check Internet Connection: Solitaire often requires a stable internet connection to sync scores and updates. Make sure your PC is online.
- Update Windows: Running the latest Windows 10 updates can fix bugs affecting apps like Solitaire.
- Restart Your Computer: Sometimes, simply restarting your PC resolves temporary glitches.
- Confirm App Installation: Verify that Solitaire is installed by searching for it in the Start menu.
Step 1: Run the Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter
Windows 10 includes a built-in tool that can automatically detect and fix problems with apps from the Microsoft Store, like Solitaire.
- Click the Start button and open Settings (the gear icon).
- Go to Update & Security and then click Troubleshoot on the left panel.
- Scroll down and select Windows Store Apps, then click Run the troubleshooter.
- Follow the on-screen instructions. The troubleshooter will check for issues and attempt repairs.
- Once finished, try opening Solitaire again.
Why this helps: The troubleshooter can fix common problems like corrupted app data or permission issues that prevent Solitaire from launching.
Step 2: Reset the Solitaire App
If the troubleshooter doesn’t work, resetting Solitaire will clear its data and settings. This often resolves app crashes or freezes.
- Open Settings and go to Apps.
- In the list, find Microsoft Solitaire Collection and click on it.
- Click the Advanced options link.
- Scroll down and click Reset. Confirm any prompts.
- After the reset, open Solitaire and check if the problem is fixed.
Why this helps: Resetting clears any corrupted files or settings that might be causing the app to malfunction.
Step 3: Update or Reinstall Solitaire
Outdated or corrupted app files can cause issues. Updating or reinstalling Solitaire ensures you have the latest, working version.
To update Solitaire:
- Open the Microsoft Store app.
- Click on the three dots in the top-right corner and select Downloads and updates.
- Click Get updates to update all apps, including Solitaire.
- Once updates are installed, try launching Solitaire again.
To reinstall Solitaire:
- Open Settings > Apps.
- Find Microsoft Solitaire Collection, click it, and select Uninstall.
- After uninstalling, open the Microsoft Store.
- Search for Microsoft Solitaire Collection and click Install.
- When installation finishes, open Solitaire to see if it works.
Why this helps: Reinstalling replaces damaged files and ensures you have the newest version, which may fix bugs.
Step 4: Check for Windows Updates
Sometimes, the problem is caused by outdated system files. Keeping Windows updated can resolve compatibility issues.
- Click Start and open Settings.
- Go to Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates and install any available updates.
- Restart your PC if prompted, then open Solitaire again.
Step 5: Create a New User Account
If Solitaire works on a different user account, the problem may be with your current Windows profile.
- Open Settings > Accounts > Family & other users.
- Click Add someone else to this PC.
- Follow the prompts to create a new local user account.
- Sign out of your current account and sign into the new one.
- Try opening Solitaire to check if it runs normally.
Why this helps: Sometimes user profiles become corrupted, causing apps to malfunction. A fresh profile can resolve this.
FAQs About Solitaire Not Working on Windows 10
Q: Why does Solitaire keep crashing on my PC?
A: Crashes are often due to corrupted app files, outdated Windows versions, or conflicts with other software. Resetting or reinstalling the app usually fixes this.
Q: Do I need an internet connection to play Solitaire?
A: Solitaire can be played offline, but some features like daily challenges require an internet connection.
Q: Can I recover my Solitaire progress after resetting the app?
A: Resetting may delete local data, but if you sign in with a Microsoft account, your progress and stats are usually saved in the cloud.
Q: How do I update Solitaire automatically?
A: Microsoft Store apps update automatically by default. To manually check, open the Store, go to Downloads and updates, and click Get updates.
Q: Is there a way to play Solitaire without Microsoft Store?
A: Yes, you can download third-party Solitaire games from trusted websites, but Microsoft’s app is recommended for security and features.
When Nothing Works: Final Options
If you have tried all the steps above and Solitaire still doesn’t work, consider the following:
- Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft Support website for help.
- Run System File Checker: Open Command Prompt as administrator and run
sfc /scannowto repair system files. - Use System Restore: Restore your PC to a point when Solitaire was working.
These advanced options can fix deeper system issues affecting apps.
Conclusion
Solitaire not working on Windows 10 can be fixed by following a few straightforward steps. Start with running the troubleshooter, then reset or update the app. Ensuring Windows is updated and checking your user profile can also help.
Most users find that resetting or reinstalling Solitaire solves the problem quickly. If not, advanced tools like System File Checker or contacting Microsoft Support are good next steps.
By taking a systematic approach, you can enjoy Solitaire without interruption and get back to relaxing gameplay in no time.