Four Fabulous Games for Any Occasion
In the early 2000s, Apple coined the phrase 'there's an app for that'. Over a decade later, the more appropriate expression is 'there's a game for that', as both the Google Play Store and Apple App Store are inundated with innovative games.
One study from TechJury found that close to 60% of these games are categorized as 'casual' titles. This highlights the current gaming industry, which focuses on accessibility and relaxation. In fact, whether gaming on a mobile device or not, it's never been easier to download or stream a game to a tablet or browser—no consoles or PCs needed.
If you're late to the gaming boom and aren't sure where to start, keep reading for a few recommendations about which types of games suit your specific mood.
A Weekend at Home: Casino Gaming
Games are a fantastic way to pass the time when spending an evening or a weekend at home. Whether looking to save some money for a trip or simply giving yourself time to unwind, casino games are a great way to incorporate both excitement and mental stimulus.
Today, there is a broad range of free online games that make shopping around for a new title easy. Card games like poker and blackjack challenge the mind's analytical thinking, while games like slots usually include thrilling settings and plenty of bonus rounds—all without spending a dime.
Stuck in the Waiting Room: Mobile Puzzles
There's nothing more mind-numbing than being stuck in a waiting room without an end in sight. On these occasions, sampling mobile games are the perfect solution to pass the time. Puzzle games, in particular, keep the mind active with cognitive challenges.
Best of all, puzzle games cover a wide spectrum of games. There's Monument Valley or Lumen for those who crave a visual adventure, Powernode and Mini Metro for those who prefer numbers and planning, or titles like Eloh for fans of fancy finger-work.
Feeling Curious on an Afternoon Off: PC Game
For those with time and energy to spare, diving into a PC title can introduce you to a really developed and intricate new world. Most often, PC games focus on RPGs, which are role-playing games. RPGs tend to revolve around expansive worlds and detail-oriented storylines.
Like the other mentions on this list, PC RPGs come in just about every theme. Some might recognize The Witcher: Wild Hunt from the popular Netflix show. Others might prefer a lighter adventure, such as the Final Fantasy franchise. There are also horror, sci-fi and fantasy, and action-adventure titles galore, from Mass Effect to Yakuza: Like a Dragon.
Extra Brain Power to Use: Language Games
Sometimes, the idea of playing a game appeals to us simply because we have some extra brain power to spare. If you're feeling wired, diving into a language acquisition game is a great way to harness the mind's spare energy. Some might already have an app downloaded, such as DuoLingo or Busuu.
Keep in mind that jumping into language learning doesn't have to be grounded in an upcoming trip. In fact, challenging the mind to learn a few words in a brand new language, whether Arabic or Spanish or Telugu, can help build new neural networks. The more neural networks your brain has, the more equipped it is to overcome new challenges.