Microsoft releases solitaire for WP8...and mahjong...and minesweeper

If you've owned a Windows computer over the past couple of decades, chances are you've filled in time playing solitaire.

Well, you can now do the same on your Windows Phone 8 smartphone.

Microsoft has released the Solitaire Collection app which includes five versions of the card game:

Klondike
This version is the timeless classic that many people just call "Solitaire". Try to clear all the cards from the table using traditional scoring or the popular Vegas scoring system.

FreeCell
Use four extra cells to move cards around as you try to clear all cards from the table. More strategic than the Klondike version, FreeCell rewards players who think several moves ahead.

Spider
Eight columns of cards await your attempts to clear them with the fewest moves possible. Start out playing with a single suit until you’re comfortable, and then see how you fare when using two or even all four suits in a game.

TriPeaks
Select cards in a sequence, either up or down, to earn points. How many boards can you clear before you run out of deals?

Pyramid
Pair two cards that add up to 13 in order to clear them. Try to reach the top of the pyramid. See how high you score in this deceptively simple and highly addictive card game that continues to increase in popularity!

It's free, it has Xbox Live support and you can get the collection here:

 Microsoft has also released an updated version of its Minesweeper game and a brand new Mahjong.  What a games fest.

Mahjong

Minesweeper