Social games are methods of interacting with friends online via arising gaming technologies. Some of these games are often simple and easily played, used as a means of easing boredom while at work or passing some spare time. Others are more time-consuming, intended for serious gaming enthusiasts.
What are Social Games?
Social games are played on PCs, through gaming consoles or via mobile phones. It is a rising gaming phenomena, some gaining popularity through online media platforms such as facebook and MySpace. Varied are the range of online social games, from massive multiplayer online (MMO) to java and flash browser enabled games.
The games hosted on social media platforms are growing fast. They are not intended for hardcore gamers but instead aimed at casual players looking for light games to pass the time. Though not often intentionally, these games can become addicting and take up more time than planned.
Games on Social Media Platforms
With the emergence of online networking sites social media platforms are reaching new heights. Along with them are the online games hosted on these sites, gaining popularity and pulling in new users every day. The creators of these games had intended them as a way to connect and play with the friends one would normally socialize with in person.
Games are more fun when played with friends, and although a lot of online games can be played with anyone around the world, interacting with real-world acquaintances adds a familiar competitive aspect to the experience. There are several companies offering these games, with new ones emerging all the time. Some well known companies developing new games at the moment are Playfish, Zynga and Ubisoft.
Free vs. Paid Online Games
Nothing good comes for free. Many MMO games are monthly paid subscriptions. With regular payments users get unlimited access to full features of the game. World of Warcraft and Final Fantasy XII for example have constantly increasing numbers of players and die-hard fans, with new games often being introduced.
The free flash games are for a less serious market. Although the games don`t often cost to play online there are still ways to sink some money into them. Many of the games depend on some kind of in-game currency players need to spend a lot of time earning. Most people may be content with earning it slowly, but for some of the more enthusiastic players there are companies willing to sell in-game currency for small payments via credit card or PayPal accounts.
The growing number of online games offer entertainment for anyone looking to pass some time. The companies and platforms creating and hosting these games are vast, providing options for all tastes and styles.
