Skype no longer offers games for its users.
While Skype is perhaps most obviously used as a simple instant messaging program, that is not its only function. It also offers you a way to make phone calls from your computer, both to other Skype users and to actual phones. Skype's Online Number subscribers can even receive phone calls directly to the computer. One of Skype's attempts to help people stay connected was through interactive games that you could access through Skype.
History of Skype Games
In its previous incarnations, Skype offered a variety of games that you could play with your online buddies. These included card games such as Hearts and Pig, as well as classics such as Hangman and others such as a bowling-inspired game. Whenever you played a new game for the first time, you had to install it. You could then invite friends to play with you. Some games took only two players, while others let you play with several of your friends all at once.
June 2011 Update
In June 2011, Skype released an update. The announcement on June 16 stated that Extras Manager, which was where the games were located, was no longer part of the program. This was "because there were only a small number of people using the third party applications through Extras Manager." This means that newer versions of Skype can no longer access these games. If you have updated Skype since June 2011, chances are the "Extras" option in the Tools menu is grayed out.
Solution
If you simply must regain access to Skype's game selection, the announcement suggests that you "visit the Skype Shop, to download an older version of Skype for Windows." Because the games are not available on more recent versions, consider keeping your older version of Skype if you still have access to games and do not wish to lose them. Remember, however, that this means you cannot access features in newer versions of Skype, such as new and updated emoticons.
Alternatives
You do not need to turn to Skype for your gaming needs. Many websites offer a variety of free games that you can play with friends. Simply direct your Skype buddies to one of these sites and begin playing together. Alternatively, you could play games of your own through Skype. For example, you and a buddy could play 20 Questions or Hangman on Skype simply through the chatting feature.
Tags: play with, could play, games that, June 2011, Extras Manager, games that could, newer versions