13 Computer Games That Came Preinstalled
Here's a look back at the classic computer games that came free with your PC and kept everyone entertained for hours.
- Daisy Montero
- 3 min read
Before fast internet and app stores, preinstalled computer games were a big deal. They were easy to play, addictive, and the perfect way to pass the time when you were supposed to be working or doing homework.
1. Solitaire
Julia M Cameron on pexels
Solitaire came with almost every Windows PC and became the go-to game for passing time. Its simple card-flipping format was easy to learn but surprisingly addictive. It was so popular that it even helped people get comfortable using a mouse.
2. Minesweeper
User:Ysangkok on wikimedia commons
Minesweeper taught patience and logic, even if most players clicked randomly at first. The thrill of avoiding a hidden mine kept people hooked. It was one of the most iconic time-killers on Windows.
3. Pinball 3D: Space Cadet
cottonbro studio on pexels
The flashy lights and space theme made this pinball game unforgettable. It felt fast, fun, and unlike the slower card games. Many players spent hours chasing the high score on this one.
4. FreeCell
Mantas on wikimedia commons
FreeCell was another card game that shipped with Windows, but it required more strategy than Solitaire. Every card was visible, making it all about planning your moves. Many players saw it as the “smart” card game on their PC.
5. Hearts
Yanina on pexels
Hearts added a multiplayer twist since you could play against the computer’s AI opponents. It was competitive and sometimes frustrating, but it had a loyal following. For many, it was their first digital taste of trick-taking card games.
6. Purble Place
Alexander Kovalev on pexels
A favorite on Windows Vista, Purble Place was colorful and kid-friendly. It had mini-games that mixed memory challenges and puzzle-solving. Younger players especially loved it for its fun, playful design.
7. Reversi (Othello)
Zen ar218 on wikimedia commons
One of the earliest games bundled with Windows, Reversi tested strategy in a simple black-and-white board setup. While not as flashy as later games, it had a loyal fan base. It was a reminder that the classics could still be fun.
8. InkBall
Liza Summer
InkBall came with Windows XP Tablet PC Edition and was all about drawing lines to guide balls into goals. It was a mix of puzzle and reflex-based gameplay. While lesser-known, it was creative and fun for touchscreen users.
9. Chess Titans
Ebahir on pexels
Windows Vista and 7 came with Chess Titans, a polished 3D chess game. The graphics made it feel more modern than other preloaded titles. It was the perfect match for players who wanted a challenge against the computer.
10. : Hover!
Samer Daboul on pexels
The game : Hover! was bundled on the Windows 95 CD-ROM as a hidden game. It combined bumper cars and capture-the-flag, making it stand out for its time. Players loved uncovering this little Easter egg.
11. Spider Solitaire
The original uploader was Sherlock38fr at French Wikipedia. on wikimedia commons
Spider Solitaire added more complexity than the regular version of Solitaire. With multiple suits to sort, it kept players challenged for hours. Many saw it as the ultimate card puzzle on their PC.
12. Tinker
Tara Winstead on pexels
Tinker was included in Windows Vista Ultimate Extras and featured a little robot navigating puzzles. It had a charming style and clever mechanics. Although not as famous as other games, it still left an impression on fans.
13. Mahjong Titans
Sami Abdullah on pexels
Mahjong Titans gave players a calm, relaxing way to pass the time. The tile-matching design and soothing music made it different from other Windows games. It became a favorite for players who wanted something low-stress.