How to Play Free Solitaire Without Downloading

Windows 8 brought many changes to Microsoft's flagship operating system, and one of them was the decision to omit Solitaire from the lineup of software bundled with the program. Solitaire isn't completely unavailable for Windows 8; it can still be downloaded from the Windows Store as an app. However, if you're looking for a download-free solitaire game, there are plenty of options online.

AARP Solitaire

The American Association of Retired Persons is not where you'd expect to find games online, but their website does indeed host a free solitaire game. AARP offers several versions of the classic card game, including Klondike, Spider, Free Cell and Pyramid, as well as a few themed solitaire games like Hollywood and Surf solitaire. Some games require an AARP online membership to play, but many can be played without membership.

World of Solitaire

As expected from the name, World of Solitaire offers a wide variety of solitaire games; there are over 50 altogether. Its interface is remarkably simple and resembles the old Windows solitaire to some degree, with game types selected from the menu after an active game has already been dealt. World of Solitaire doesn't use Flash, so it's a good choice for browsers with limited Flash capability.

Games.com Solitaire

Games.com hosts a wide variety of games in general, but also plays host to a wide range of solitaire games. Games.com's selections offers a number of game types like Klondike, Spider and Free Cell. It also hosts some themed solitaire games like Casino solitaire, and other games that work Solitaire into their lineup like "Vegas World."