Today Microsoft launched a new version of their venerable solitaire game built-in to every Windows release since version 3.0. Published through Windows Update for Windows Vista and Windows 7, this latest incarnation features an integrated connection to the new “Solitaire Live” social gaming network. Much as Bioware and Ubisoft have launched new social networking sites linked to high profile releases such as Dragon Age: Origins and Assassin’s Creed II, respectively, MS is hoping to leverage the popularity of computer solitaire to launch their own site where players can connect, compare best scores, show off in game achievements and purchase DLC.
Currently the new site is being hammered by the launch day traffic. Many users are reporting that after the update Solitaire times out when trying to authenticate online and shuts itself down. Microsoft has already announced a update is on the way to allow offline play.