MOBILE and CASUAL GAMES

Casual and mobile games

Unlike computer-based or console-based games, the casual mobile games (in the US, at any rate) do not come in boxes and are not sold in stores. Rather, they are obtained by using your browser to access the distributor's or the game's website, or by using your cellphone to query your service providers "store". In almost all cases, to get the game you download it directly to your phone, computer or console.

What makes a game a casual game?

• Minimal learning time --there are no manuals included and any instructions are done within the game itself.
• Short incremental wins and satisfying even for short plays.
• Colorful and appealing graphics. Jewels is a good example.
• Satisfying sounds. Clicks as you proceed and booms and crashes as you win.
• While it looks easy -- it should surprise you as being harder than it first appeared to be. The challenge should increase as you play.
• AND - You can try before you buy.

There are many sites for casual games where you can play a game for between a half-hour and an hour free, by downloading it onto your computer. They are relatively small -- around 10 Mb -- so download time is minimal. The clock does not keep running if you pause the game or quit before the time runs out.

The games are un-rated but I saw no "M" games, and they all -- so far -- are devoid of violence. The age range is truly "Everyone", from kids to seniors. The genre is made up of action games, card games, puzzle games, strategy games and word games. Many are surprising in their inventiveness. If, after you sample, the time is up, and you wish to continue, you can purchase the game on line and keep going - you do not lose your progress. Most of these games are under twenty dollars.

Girl with a heart of ...	Bejeweled 3	Sam & Max: The Devil's Playhouse Episode 5: The City That Dare Not Sleep	Sam & Max: The Devil's Playhouse Episode 4: Alley of the Dolls	Sam & Max: They Stole Max's Brain!	The Devil's Playhouse Episode 2: The Tomb of Sammun-Mak	Blood Ties
Mystic Emporium	Plants vs. Zombies	Peggle Dual Shot	Dream Day First Home	7 Wonders of the Ancient World	Maple Story
TeamUp	Diner Dash	TriJinx	Oasis

Ordering:
For ease in purchasing any of the items we have reviewed here, we have linked to various web sites. Be advised that your personal information may very well be considered by these sites to be their asset - and they may use it as they see fit.