By: Nick Gambino
As news broke a couple of days ago that Microsoft would be doing away with Microsoft Paint after 32 years, many of us who grew up in the 80s and 90s felt like a stake had been driven through the heart of our childhood.
Perhaps that’s a bit dramatic. But the program, which had been a staple since 1985 when Windows 1.0 hit the scene, was for many of us the only thing that would allow us to while away the hours at our mom or dad’s office.
For some, it was the first introduction to graphic design and for others, it was just a reminder that we possessed not an artistic bone in our body.
Microsoft Paint was never feature-heavy and always failed to live up to expectations but still, it was always that one program that would do that one simple thing you needed in a pinch. Over the years Paint was given much-needed upgrades with the most recent version appearing as part of Windows 7.
Then in a most unfortunate decision, a few days ago it was deemed unworthy of continued life and was slated for retirement (that’s code for assassination). Fans of the age-old program came out of the woodwork and expressed their disbelief/outrage.
It didn’t take long for Microsoft to respond to the outpour of love and demand for a pardon from death. “Today we’ve seen an incredible outpouring of support and nostalgia around MS Paint,” a blog post from Megan Saunders, GM of the 3D for Everyone Initiative, read. “If there’s anything we’ve learned, it’s that after 32 years, MS Paint has a lot of fans. It’s been amazing to see so much love for our trusty old app.”
Ok, but what are you getting at Megan? “Microsoft Paint is here to stay, it will just have a new home soon, in the Windows Store where it will be available for free.”
So there you have it! Microsoft Paint Survives! Albeit not as part of Windows resident programs but it can be easily downloaded at no extra cost to you. Good news in a time when we can really use some.
Are you one of those nostalgic fans of Microsoft Paint? Let us know how you’re feeling about the reprieve of our old friend. Comment down below!
