Definition
From Casual Games Wiki
The term "Casual Games" came to describe a style of game that began around 2001 with the introduction of downloadable games by Real Arcade, Microsoft Zone, Pogo, Shockwave and others.
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[edit] Background
Though many games could be considered "Casual Games" before 2001, the term really describes the games that specifically were targeted at a non-core-gamer mass market audience and distributed through the internet via downloads.
A couple of factors led to the start of this new style of game.
- The Internet enabled the digital distribution of games, instead of stores.
- The Internet provided a place where people who bought computers went to get their entertainment, instead of shopping at stores. This led to the ability to connect with a large segment of the population that were not gamers.
- The ad market of the Internet had dipped then and sites with games where trying to figure out how to make money out of them.
- Portals had acquired a large mass of audience to direct market to.
[edit] Style Of Play
Casual Games are now considered "games for everyone" - with a special emphasis on whether your mom can play it.
[edit] Distribution
Casual Games are frequently distributed with a "Try Before You Buy" model. Where a person can play for an hour for free and then decide whether to purchase or not. This model of play grew out of the Shareware distribution model.
Casual Games are usually sold for $19.95
[edit] Platforms
Casual Games can now be found on Cell Phones and Consoles such as XBox 360 via the Xbox Live system.
