I have the exact same problem for 3 days ongoing now. The ONLY changes made to my system were WINDOWS UPDATES. I have not downloaded anything else or installed anything else. How much do you want to bet that if I do a system restore to before the updates, the games would work! I, too, like to play backgammon and spades. I tried calling Microsoft and they said I have a memory problem on my computer that prevents me from accessing the Internet. HUH?
Where do they get their help? First, I called using my COMPUTER, via Google Voice. In other words, I have to be ON THE INTERNET to make the phone call! Second, I am on the Internet now, so obviously I don't have a problem accessing the Internet.
Third, according to my Task Manager...