This Solitaire game is so tiny it can load from a QR code, which is just what I need in the age of massive games and expensive storage

In an era when game file sizes are swelling and storage becomes increasingly costly, the value of a compact game is more apparent than ever. TinySol is a solitaire game that exemplifies this trend, being so petite that it can be loaded from a QR code. This ingenious creation is the brainchild of vintage computer enthusiasts Classic Bits and was discovered by YouTuber LGR Blerbs at the VCF Southwest convention in Texas. Blerbs was unexpectedly given TinySol on a 5.25-inch floppy disk.

Despite its small size, TinySol is a modern game, having been in development since 2021. The game is designed for the 640x400 AT&T 6300 monochrome video, with a manual explaining that the developer originally aimed to create a tiny game fitting into ROM images for GRiD computers. The game is impressively lightweight, weighing in at just 3 kilobytes.

TinySol offers three-card Klondike Solitaire with basic black and white graphics. The game is intentionally monochrome to ensure optimal clarity on old displays. The compact size of TinySol allows it to fit within a QR code, which can be decoded using a simple code provided on the game's packaging. The QR code version is a mini, low-resolution variant with limited features.

Currently, TinySol only supports the three-card draw mode. However, Classic Bits has hinted at an upcoming release that will include a one-card draw mode. The game is available for free download from the Classic Bits website and can be run in DosBox by simply dragging and dropping the executable onto the application.

Interestingly, many of the three-card draws generated by TinySol are unwinnable. To address this, Classic Bits has provided 640 winnable save files that can be downloaded alongside the game. This attention to detail ensures that players have a smooth and enjoyable experience while exploring this diminutive yet captivating game.