A quick game of cards on the bus, quickly mowing the lawn at the supermarket checkout, jumping on trains while waiting for your meal in the restaurant or puzzling out words together on the sofa in the evening. This is how casual games work – simple digital games. They range from small mobile games like Candy Crush to big console titles like Mario Party. What they all have in common is that they are easily accessible, entertaining and often particularly beginner-friendly. They are simple, fast and always accessible. But they are not completely problem-free.
What are casual games?
The term “casual games” means occasional games. Their most important characteristics are
- They are often available free of charge and can usually be used on smartphones, PCs and consoles.
- They have simple game principles that can be understood and implemented immediately.
- They can be played in small bites at any time.
- They usually work with rewards, leaderboards and flashy visuals to motivate users to keep playing.
Well-known examples include Candy Crush, Quizduell, Subway Surfer and Mahjong. But also Stardew Valley or Animal Crossing also count as casual games due to their relaxed gameplay and broad target group. These games are now so popular that more than half of people in Germany play them at least occasionally. In 2023, 5.1 billion euros in sales were generated across Germany with these small games.
Casual gaming in the family
Casual games are also frequently found in families. Thanks to their simple design, they appeal to all family members and have fans in all age groups. Even family members who are not real gamers are often enthusiastic about the “little gaming experience in between”. In many casual games, players can connect with each other, play against each other or help each other. This creates a shared experience that brings the family together. But solo games such as Unpacking or A Little to the Left also invite you to think, organize and relax – without any time pressure or pressure to perform. Some games promote skills such as responsiveness, logical thinking or problem-solving and are therefore an entertaining and educational pastime for children and young people.
What should parents pay attention to?
Despite all the fun, as parents you should always keep an eye on the problematic aspects of so-called “handbag games” – and discuss these with your child:
- Age information: Discuss with your child which apps they are allowed to use on their own smartphone. Pay attention to the USK age rating and find out about suitable, age-appropriate offers. A look at the USK rating also reveals whether additional money can be spent in the game or whether a chat function is included. The NRW Game Guide reviews and describes games from an educational perspective. The ratings are a good basis for forming your own opinion – on Candy Crush, for example.
- Time: click, reward, again! Casual games are often packed with incentives, rewards and small challenges that tempt you to keep playing. Children in particular therefore find it difficult to stop in time and use the games to a healthy extent. Talk openly with your child about the use of these game apps. Agree a time budget together and use the settings options on the devices to help your child use them consciously.
- Costs: Even if many casual games can initially be downloaded free of charge, this does not mean that they really cost nothing. Many offers rely on in-game purchases. These microtransactions can be used to boost powers or acquire useful items for real money, for example. This can quickly add up and become expensive. Agree with your child how much money they can spend. If necessary, deactivate in-app purchases in the Google Play Store or Apple App Store on the smartphone or alternatively use a voucher card for the app stores. Some casual games only have to be paid for once, but offer a complete and high-quality gaming experience without any in-app purchases or advertising.
- Data: Another issue is data protection: not all providers handle personal data with care. If your child provides information carelessly, it is often impossible to understand what it is being used for. Discuss with your child which data they are allowed to disclose and where.
Casual games can be a great way to pass the time while waiting for the bus – without any unwanted side effects.
