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Video games have become a truly global phenomenon. Hollywood executives now turn to the likes of Super Mario and Tomb Raider to bring back audiences to movie theatres while streaming platforms capitalise on franchises like League of Legends and Fallout to rejuvenate their catalogue. Video game adaptations are rising, and seeing gaming icons on TV may push their appeal to the mainstream like no other medium.
Meanwhile, playing video games is no longer seen as a geeky or niche activity, contributing to a soaring success that accounts for 3 billion active players worldwide. The soaring popularity of casual games is one of the driving factors behind that upward trend, prompting many non-traditional players to give gaming a shot. So, let’s delve into the reasons underpinning the casual gaming boom.
Casual Games: The Reality Behind a Fuzzy Concept
The very notion of casual gaming can seem vague compared to sports games or first-person shooters, which fit neatly into one category. As opposed to these well-defined genres, the term “casual” serves more as an umbrella for a wide array of game types. However, casual or hyper-casual titles share common features, chief among them being their target audience. Unlike hardcore games designed for seasoned gamers, their casual counterparts are created with a broader audience in mind.
The simple controls and gameplay mechanics of these mass-market options make it easy for first-timers to jump right in, even if they have never held a controller. This simplistic, yet devastatingly effective idea plays out particularly well on mobile devices, whose easy tap-and-swipe interfaces seem more approachable than a complex PC set-up or intimidating joystick.
Most casual games also offer brief, low-pressure sessions that make them ideal to unwind while commuting or on a quick break during work. With most adults dedicating a third of their waking time to their phones, developers have plenty of avenues to explore to reach out to billions of potential customers – some of whom will boost their sessions through in-app purchases.
Is There a Particular Genre Attached to Casual Gaming?
While casual games go beyond a single genre, they typically fall into one of seven leading categories. Puzzle games, for one, challenge players to test their problem-solving skills. Mobile apps like the Candy Crush Saga reign supreme on that front, uniting over 500 million players, half of whom tune in at least once a month. The casual gaming spectrum covers much more ground, from arcade-style platformers to trivia quizzes and chill simulators.
Additionally, casual gamers with a strategic mindset can dive into games emphasising resource management or tactical thinking, including action-focused collaborative titles integrating strategic elements like Clash of Clans. Prominent titles also include games that foster social interactions, such as Coin Master which blends village-building mechanics and slot machines.
In that department, though, most casual games pale in comparison with the sheer diversity on display on dedicated platforms. Top websites offer a wealth of free slots for all playing styles. These free-to-play options are the ideal entry point for newcomers willing to shoot their shots without financial risk. Typically, they cover as varied themes as mythology, ancient history, pop culture, and wildlife. Besides, first-timers can browse guidelines and player feedback to know where to start their online journey.
Looking at the Best Casual Games to Give a Try
With so many casual games available, it is no wonder why no players might feel overwhelmed by choices. Thankfully, many platforms make it easier to navigate the abundance of casual games by organising titles by category and popularity. On the App Store or Steam, users can easily find the perfect match by looking into comments left by fellow gamers.
However, sticking with smashing successes is always a safe bet. Mobile hits like Dice Dreams, Subway Surfer, and Temple Run are solid gateways to casual gaming with their easy one-touch mechanics and vibrant graphics.
Other players might be contemplating a multiplayer experience upon the suggestion of their friends, relatives, or coworkers. Social deduction games like Among Us require little prior gaming experience. Meanwhile, family-friendly consoles like the Nintendo Switch offer many casual games to enjoy with like-minded players. Goofy titles like Overcooked offer just the right amount of challenging fun, while relaxing life sims like Animal Crossing: New Horizons offer some sweet solo or group escapism.
The gaming landscape has seen a recent shift toward more engaging and accessible gameplay. And the business model associated with casual games is only beginning to rock the gaming world.
