The world of gaming has expanded beyond hardcore enthusiasts, embracing a vast community of casual gamers seeking fun and engaging experiences. Online games competitions, specifically designed for casual players, are bridging this gap, offering a platform to test skills, connect with others, and even earn rewards.
This exciting trend is transforming how casual gamers interact with their favorite games, fostering a competitive spirit while maintaining a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.
This exploration delves into the rise of casual gaming, the benefits of online competitions for casual players, the diverse types of competitions available, and the strategic use of rewards to motivate participation. We’ll examine the key elements of successful competitions, offering insights into designing engaging experiences and showcasing real-world examples of thriving initiatives.
The Rise of Casual Gaming
The world of gaming has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent years, with the rise of casual gaming playing a significant role in shaping the industry’s landscape. Casual games, characterized by their simple gameplay, accessibility, and often free-to-play model, have captured the hearts and minds of a vast audience, pushing the boundaries of traditional gaming and attracting a diverse range of players.
The Growing Popularity of Casual Gaming
The popularity of casual gaming has skyrocketed in recent years, driven by several factors. The increasing availability of mobile devices and the internet has made gaming accessible to a wider audience, breaking down traditional barriers to entry. Additionally, the rise of social media and online platforms has facilitated the sharing and discovery of casual games, further fueling their popularity.
Examples of Popular Casual Games
Casual games encompass a wide range of genres, from puzzle games and strategy games to endless runners and mobile RPGs. Some of the most popular casual games include:
- Candy Crush Saga: This match-three puzzle game, known for its addictive gameplay and colorful visuals, has become a global phenomenon, captivating millions of players worldwide.
- Clash of Clans: This mobile strategy game allows players to build their own villages, train troops, and engage in strategic battles with other players. Its engaging gameplay and social features have made it a popular choice for casual gamers.
- Subway Surfers: This endless runner game features a simple but addictive gameplay loop, where players navigate through an endless track, dodging obstacles and collecting coins. Its colorful graphics and engaging gameplay have made it a favorite among casual gamers.
Demographics of Casual Gamers
Casual gamers represent a diverse demographic, encompassing individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels. While traditional gamers are often associated with hardcore enthusiasts who spend countless hours playing complex games, casual gamers are more likely to play for short periods, often on their mobile devices or during breaks from other activities.
Motivations for Casual Gaming
Casual gamers are driven by a variety of motivations, including:
- Stress Relief: Casual games provide a relaxing and enjoyable escape from the stresses of daily life, offering a temporary respite from work, school, or other obligations.
- Social Connection: Many casual games incorporate social features, allowing players to connect with friends, compete with others, or join online communities. This social aspect can be a significant motivator for casual gamers.
- Entertainment: Casual games provide a quick and easy form of entertainment, offering a fun and engaging way to pass the time during commutes, breaks, or downtime.
- Cognitive Stimulation: Some casual games, such as puzzle games or strategy games, can provide mental stimulation and challenge, helping to keep players engaged and sharp.
Online Games Competitions for Casual Gamers
Casual gamers, those who enjoy gaming for fun and relaxation, can now experience the thrill of competition without the pressure of professional esports. Online games competitions specifically designed for casual gamers offer a unique opportunity to test their skills, connect with others, and earn rewards.
Benefits of Participating in Online Games Competitions
Online games competitions designed for casual gamers provide several benefits, making them an attractive option for those who want to add an extra layer of excitement to their gaming experience.
- Skill Development:Competing against others, even in a casual setting, encourages players to improve their skills. This can be done by learning new strategies, refining their tactics, and practicing regularly. The competitive environment motivates players to push their boundaries and enhance their gameplay.
- Social Interaction:Online games competitions provide a platform for players to connect with like-minded individuals. They can team up with friends, meet new people, and build camaraderie through shared experiences. This social aspect adds another dimension to the gaming experience, making it more enjoyable and engaging.
- Rewards:While not as substantial as professional esports prizes, casual games competitions often offer rewards such as in-game items, discounts, or exclusive content. These rewards can provide a sense of accomplishment and incentivize players to participate.
Key Elements of a Successful Online Games Competition for Casual Gamers
Creating a successful online games competition for casual gamers requires careful consideration of various elements.
- Accessibility:The competition should be easily accessible to casual gamers, with straightforward registration and participation processes. The rules and format should be clear and easy to understand.
- Inclusivity:The competition should welcome players of all skill levels, ensuring a fair and enjoyable experience for everyone. This can be achieved through skill-based matchmaking or separate divisions for different levels of expertise.
- Reward System:The reward system should be appealing and relevant to casual gamers. This could include in-game items, cosmetic rewards, or discounts on future purchases. It’s important to ensure that the rewards are attainable for most participants, fostering a sense of accomplishment and encouraging continued participation.
- Community Building:Building a strong community around the competition is crucial. This can be achieved through dedicated forums, social media groups, or in-game communication channels. A vibrant community can foster a sense of belonging, encourage interaction, and promote a positive and supportive environment.
Types of Online Games Competitions
Online games competitions come in various forms, catering to different gaming preferences and skill levels. These competitions are categorized based on game genres, formats, and prize structures, offering diverse opportunities for casual gamers to showcase their skills and win exciting rewards.
Game Genres
The genre of the game is a primary factor in determining the type of competition. Different genres have unique gameplay mechanics and require different skills, leading to diverse competition formats.
- Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA): Games like League of Legends and Dota 2 feature team-based combat, strategic map control, and hero-specific abilities. Competitions typically involve teams battling for victory in a series of matches. Popular competitions include the League of Legends World Championship and The International Dota 2 Championship.
- First-Person Shooters (FPS): Games like Counter-Strike: Global Offensive and Valorant focus on fast-paced action, precise aiming, and strategic teamwork. Competitions often involve teams competing in rounds, with the team achieving the most victories winning the match. Popular competitions include the Counter-Strike: Global Offensive Major Championships and the Valorant Champions Tour.
- Real-Time Strategy (RTS): Games like StarCraft II and Age of Empires IV require players to manage resources, build armies, and strategically engage in combat. Competitions typically involve players battling for victory in a series of matches, showcasing their resource management and strategic thinking.
Popular competitions include the StarCraft II World Championship Series and the Age of Empires IV World Championship.
- Battle Royale: Games like Fortnite and PUBG involve a large number of players competing in a single match, with the last player standing winning. Competitions typically involve players battling for victory in a series of matches, showcasing their survival skills and tactical awareness.
Popular competitions include the Fortnite World Cup and the PUBG Global Championship.
- Card Games: Games like Hearthstone and Legends of Runeterra involve strategic deck building and card play. Competitions typically involve players battling for victory in a series of matches, showcasing their card knowledge and tactical decision-making. Popular competitions include the Hearthstone World Championship and the Legends of Runeterra World Championship.
Competition Formats
The format of the competition determines the structure and rules of gameplay. Different formats cater to various skill levels and preferences, offering diverse ways to compete.
- Tournaments: Tournaments are structured competitions with multiple rounds, where players or teams compete against each other to advance to the next stage. These tournaments can be single-elimination, double-elimination, or round-robin formats, with the winner determined by a series of matches.
- Ladder Systems: Ladder systems are ranked competitions where players compete against each other to climb the ladder based on their wins and losses. Players are ranked based on their performance, with higher ranks indicating greater skill and experience.
- Leagues: Leagues are regular competitions with multiple teams competing against each other over a set period. Teams are typically divided into divisions based on their skill level, with the top teams competing for championship titles.
- Challenges: Challenges are short-term competitions with specific objectives and rules. These challenges can be individual or team-based, offering players a quick and engaging way to compete and earn rewards.
Prize Structures
The prize structure of a competition determines the rewards for winning. Prize structures can vary significantly depending on the competition’s size, sponsorship, and popularity.
- Cash Prizes: Cash prizes are the most common form of reward in online games competitions, ranging from small amounts to significant sums for major tournaments.
- In-Game Items: In-game items, such as skins, cosmetics, and virtual currency, are often awarded as prizes in online games competitions. These items can be exclusive or limited-edition, adding value and prestige to the rewards.
- Sponsorships: Sponsorships can be awarded to winning players or teams, providing them with financial support, equipment, or other benefits. Sponsorships can be valuable for players looking to pursue a professional gaming career.
- Recognition and Fame: Recognition and fame are valuable rewards for winning online games competitions. Players who perform well can gain a following, attract sponsors, and become influential figures in the gaming community.
Rewards and Incentives
Rewards and incentives play a crucial role in motivating casual gamers to participate in online competitions. They provide a tangible benefit for engaging in the competition and contribute to a sense of accomplishment and reward. The allure of rewards can entice casual gamers to step outside their comfort zones and test their skills against others, fostering a competitive spirit and enhancing the overall gaming experience.
Types of Rewards
The types of rewards offered can significantly influence the appeal of a competition to casual gamers. A diverse range of rewards caters to different preferences and motivations, ensuring that there is something for everyone.
- In-game items: These rewards are directly tied to the game itself and can enhance the player’s experience within the game. They can range from cosmetic items like character skins and weapon skins to functional items like new weapons, armor, or abilities.
In-game items offer a sense of personalization and can be highly sought after by casual gamers who want to enhance their virtual identity.
- Virtual currency: Virtual currency, often used for in-game purchases, can be a valuable reward for casual gamers. It allows them to acquire additional content, items, or services within the game, expanding their gameplay options and providing them with more opportunities for enjoyment.
Virtual currency rewards can be particularly appealing to players who enjoy collecting in-game items or who want to support the game’s development.
- Real-world prizes: Real-world prizes offer a tangible reward that goes beyond the virtual realm. They can range from physical merchandise related to the game, such as t-shirts, mugs, or figurines, to more substantial prizes like gaming consoles, peripherals, or even cash.
Real-world prizes can be highly motivating for casual gamers, providing a tangible representation of their achievements and a sense of accomplishment that extends beyond the game itself.
Effectiveness of Reward Systems
The effectiveness of different reward systems in engaging casual gamers depends on factors such as the type of game, the target audience, and the overall competition structure.
- Tiered reward systems: Tiered reward systems offer progressively better rewards as players achieve higher rankings or perform better in the competition. This structure encourages players to strive for improvement and to continue participating in the competition to unlock the most valuable rewards.
This approach is particularly effective for competitive games where skill and strategy are emphasized.
- Randomized reward systems: Randomized reward systems, often associated with loot boxes or treasure chests, provide an element of surprise and excitement for casual gamers. Players can earn rewards that are randomly assigned, adding an element of chance and anticipation to the competition.
This approach can be particularly effective for casual games that prioritize fun and entertainment over hardcore competition.
- Social rewards: Social rewards, such as badges, achievements, or leaderboards, can be highly motivating for casual gamers who enjoy recognition and a sense of community. These rewards highlight their achievements and provide them with a sense of belonging within the gaming community.
Social rewards can be particularly effective for casual games that emphasize social interaction and teamwork.
Designing a Competition for Casual Gamers
Creating an engaging and successful online games competition for casual gamers requires careful planning and consideration of their specific needs and preferences. This section will guide you through the process of designing a competition that caters to the casual gaming audience, ensuring a fun and rewarding experience for all participants.
Game Selection
Choosing the right game is crucial for attracting and retaining participants. Casual gamers typically prefer games that are easy to learn, have a low barrier to entry, and offer a quick and enjoyable gameplay experience.
- Popular and Accessible Games:Select games that are already popular and widely accessible, such as mobile games, free-to-play titles, or popular esports titles with casual modes. This ensures a larger player pool and reduces the learning curve for participants.
- Variety and Genre Diversity:Offer a variety of games across different genres to cater to diverse interests. This could include puzzle games, strategy games, racing games, or even party games that can be enjoyed by groups of friends.
- Consider Skill Level:Choose games that offer adjustable difficulty settings or modes that cater to different skill levels. This ensures that both beginners and more experienced players can participate and enjoy the competition.
Competition Format
The competition format should be designed to be accessible and engaging for casual gamers. Avoid overly complex or time-consuming formats that might discourage participation.
- Short and Frequent Rounds:Organize the competition into short and frequent rounds to minimize time commitment and maintain player interest. This allows players to participate even with busy schedules.
- Single-Elimination or Round-Robin:Consider using a single-elimination format for a fast-paced and exciting competition. A round-robin format can provide more opportunities for players to compete and improve their skills.
- Team-Based or Individual:Offer both team-based and individual competition options to cater to different preferences. Team-based competitions can foster a sense of community and encourage collaboration, while individual competitions allow players to showcase their individual skills.
Reward Structure
Rewards should be attractive and relevant to the casual gaming audience. Consider offering a variety of rewards to appeal to different preferences and motivations.
- In-Game Items and Currency:Offer in-game rewards such as exclusive skins, cosmetics, or virtual currency. These rewards can enhance the gaming experience and provide a sense of achievement.
- Gift Cards and Discounts:Provide gift cards for popular online stores or offer discounts on games and gaming peripherals. These rewards can be valuable to players and encourage further engagement with gaming.
- Bragging Rights and Recognition:Recognize top performers with public announcements, leaderboards, or special in-game achievements. This can provide a sense of accomplishment and motivate players to strive for excellence.
Promotion and Marketing
Promoting your competition effectively is crucial for attracting participants. Leverage different channels to reach your target audience.
- Social Media:Utilize social media platforms to promote the competition, share updates, and engage with potential participants. Use eye-catching visuals and compelling descriptions to pique interest.
- Gaming Communities:Reach out to gaming communities and forums relevant to the chosen games. Announce the competition and offer incentives for players to participate.
- Influencer Marketing:Partner with gaming influencers or streamers to promote the competition to their audiences. This can significantly expand reach and generate buzz.
Tips and Best Practices
- Clear Rules and Guidelines:Provide clear and concise rules and guidelines for the competition to ensure fairness and transparency.
- Regular Communication:Keep participants informed about competition updates, schedules, and important announcements through regular communication channels.
- Community Building:Foster a sense of community by encouraging interaction and communication among participants. This can create a more enjoyable and engaging experience.
- Feedback and Iteration:Collect feedback from participants after each competition to identify areas for improvement and refine the format and rewards for future events.
Case Studies of Successful Online Games Competitions
Examining successful online games competitions for casual gamers offers valuable insights into what makes them successful and provides a roadmap for future endeavors. These case studies reveal the key elements that contribute to engagement, participation, and overall success, offering valuable lessons for organizers and aspiring competition creators.
Case Study 1: The Overwatch Contenders
The Overwatch Contenders is a popular esports league organized by Blizzard Entertainment, featuring aspiring Overwatch players competing for a chance to join the Overwatch League. This case study showcases a successful competition structure for casual gamers, as the Contenders league serves as a stepping stone for aspiring professional players, offering them a platform to showcase their skills and compete against others at a high level.
Key Features and Strategies
- Structured League Format:The Contenders league operates in a structured format, with teams competing in regional leagues and playoffs, culminating in a global championship. This format provides a clear path for players to progress and fosters a competitive environment.
- Accessibility for Casual Gamers:While the Overwatch Contenders focuses on aspiring professional players, the league is accessible to casual gamers who aspire to compete at a higher level. This accessibility is achieved through open qualifiers, where players can earn a spot in the league based on their performance.
This open qualifier system allows casual gamers to test their skills against other players, potentially paving their way to professional competition.
- Prize Pool and Recognition:The Contenders league offers a substantial prize pool, providing financial incentives for players and teams to compete. The league also offers recognition and exposure for players, which can help them gain sponsorships and attract potential professional opportunities.
- Emphasis on Teamwork and Strategy:The Overwatch Contenders emphasizes teamwork and strategy, as players must collaborate to achieve victory. This focus on teamwork aligns with the casual gamer audience, as many casual gamers enjoy playing with friends and collaborating on strategy.
Factors Contributing to Success
- Game Popularity:Overwatch is a popular game with a large and active player base, which contributes to the popularity of the Contenders league. The game’s accessibility and competitive nature attract a wide range of players, from casual to hardcore.
- Strong Brand Recognition:Blizzard Entertainment is a renowned game developer with a strong brand recognition, which adds credibility and legitimacy to the Contenders league. The association with Blizzard further enhances the league’s appeal and attracts a larger audience.
- Effective Marketing:Blizzard actively promotes the Contenders league through various channels, including social media, streaming platforms, and in-game events. This marketing strategy effectively reaches the target audience and raises awareness of the league.
Lessons Learned
- Create a Structured and Competitive Environment:A structured format with clear rules and a competitive environment encourages participation and fosters a sense of accomplishment for players.
- Provide Accessibility and Opportunities:Open qualifiers and accessible participation pathways attract a wider range of players and provide opportunities for casual gamers to compete.
- Offer Incentives and Recognition:Attractive prize pools and recognition for players motivate participation and enhance the overall experience.
- Leverage Game Popularity and Brand Recognition:Utilizing a popular game and a strong brand increases the appeal and credibility of the competition.
- Invest in Effective Marketing:Reaching the target audience through targeted marketing strategies is essential for promoting the competition and attracting participants.
The Future of Online Games Competitions for Casual Gamers
The realm of online games competitions for casual gamers is poised for significant growth and innovation, driven by evolving technologies and the ever-growing popularity of casual gaming. The future holds exciting possibilities for casual gamers seeking competitive experiences, with trends and technologies shaping the landscape of these competitions.
Emerging Trends and Technologies
Emerging trends and technologies are shaping the future of online games competitions for casual gamers, offering innovative ways to engage players and enhance the competitive experience.
- Esports Integration:The lines between casual and competitive gaming are blurring, with esports becoming increasingly accessible. Casual gamers can now participate in smaller-scale tournaments or leagues within their favorite games, fostering a more inclusive competitive environment.
- Mobile Gaming Advancements:Mobile gaming is booming, and its integration with online competitions is transforming the landscape. Mobile esports tournaments and leagues are gaining popularity, offering casual gamers convenient and accessible platforms to compete.
- Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR):VR and AR technologies are revolutionizing gaming experiences, and their impact on online competitions is becoming evident. VR esports tournaments are emerging, immersing players in virtual environments for a more realistic and engaging experience.
- Blockchain Technology:Blockchain technology is introducing new possibilities for online games competitions, such as secure and transparent reward systems, decentralized platforms for organizing tournaments, and the creation of unique digital assets.
Impact on the Casual Gaming Community
Online games competitions are having a profound impact on the casual gaming community, fostering a sense of community, promoting skill development, and providing opportunities for recognition and rewards.
- Enhanced Community Engagement:Online games competitions provide a platform for casual gamers to connect with like-minded individuals, forming communities around shared interests and fostering a sense of belonging.
- Skill Development and Progression:Competitions encourage players to hone their skills, learn strategies, and improve their gameplay, leading to a more rewarding and engaging gaming experience.
- Recognition and Rewards:Online games competitions offer opportunities for casual gamers to showcase their skills, earn recognition, and receive rewards, providing a sense of accomplishment and motivation.
Related Games and Genres
The realm of casual gaming is vast and diverse, encompassing various genres that cater to different preferences and skill levels. Understanding the key features and popular titles within each genre is crucial for designing engaging competitions that appeal to a wide range of players.
Online Games Arcade
Arcade games, known for their simple mechanics and addictive gameplay, have long been a staple in the gaming world. These games often involve quick bursts of action, requiring players to react swiftly and make strategic decisions in a limited time frame.Arcade games are a perfect fit for casual gamers seeking quick and satisfying gameplay sessions.
They are typically easy to learn, offering a low barrier to entry, making them accessible to players of all skill levels. The focus on fast-paced action and simple controls makes them ideal for short gaming sessions, fitting perfectly into the busy schedules of casual gamers.Popular arcade games include:* Pac-Man:This classic game involves navigating a maze, consuming dots and avoiding ghosts.
Tetris
This puzzle game requires players to strategically fit falling blocks into a grid, forming complete lines to clear them.
Candy Crush Saga
This match-three puzzle game involves matching candies of the same color to clear the board and achieve objectives.
Online Games Basketball
Basketball games offer a thrilling experience for sports enthusiasts and casual gamers alike. These games simulate the fast-paced action and strategic elements of real-life basketball, allowing players to control their favorite teams and compete against others.The appeal of basketball games lies in their accessibility and engaging gameplay.
They offer a simple learning curve, allowing players to quickly grasp the basic controls and strategies. The strategic depth of the game, involving team management, player development, and tactical decisions, keeps players engaged and entertained.Popular basketball games include:* NBA 2K:This franchise is known for its realistic graphics, detailed gameplay, and comprehensive features.
NBA Live
This franchise offers a more arcade-style experience, emphasizing fast-paced action and simplified controls.
Basketball Stars
This mobile game provides a casual and accessible experience, allowing players to compete in quick matches with simple controls.
Online Games Car Racing
Car racing games offer an adrenaline-pumping experience, allowing players to race against opponents, test their driving skills, and compete for victory. These games often feature realistic physics, detailed car models, and diverse tracks, creating a immersive and exciting racing experience.Car racing games are popular among casual gamers due to their accessibility and thrilling gameplay.
They are relatively easy to learn, requiring basic controls and a grasp of the track layout. The competitive nature of racing, with players striving to finish first, adds an extra layer of excitement and motivation.Popular car racing games include:* Forza Horizon 5:This open-world racing game offers a vast and diverse environment, allowing players to explore stunning landscapes and participate in various racing events.
Gran Turismo 7
This simulation racing game emphasizes realistic physics, detailed car models, and a comprehensive career mode.
Asphalt 9
Legends: This mobile game offers a more arcade-style experience, focusing on fast-paced action and visually stunning graphics.
Online Games Strategy
Strategy games require players to think critically, plan ahead, and make strategic decisions to outmaneuver their opponents. These games often involve resource management, unit control, and complex decision-making, rewarding players who can think strategically and anticipate their opponents’ moves.Strategy games are a popular choice for casual gamers seeking a challenging and engaging experience.
They offer a high level of depth and replayability, with different strategies and tactics emerging with each playthrough. The strategic nature of these games allows players to exercise their problem-solving skills and engage in thoughtful decision-making.Popular strategy games include:* Civilization VI:This turn-based strategy game involves leading a civilization through history, expanding territory, developing technology, and engaging in diplomacy and warfare.
StarCraft II
This real-time strategy game involves managing resources, building units, and engaging in intense battles against opponents.
Clash of Clans
This mobile strategy game involves building a village, training troops, and attacking other players’ bases to acquire resources and expand your territory.
Online Games Competition
Online games competitions offer a platform for gamers to showcase their skills and compete against others for prizes and recognition. These competitions can range from casual tournaments to professional esports events, catering to players of all skill levels.Online games competitions are particularly appealing to casual gamers seeking a competitive outlet and a chance to test their skills against others.
The availability of casual tournaments with relatively low stakes allows players to participate without feeling overwhelmed by the pressure of professional competition.Popular online games competitions include:* Dota 2 The International:This annual tournament is the world championship for Dota 2, featuring the top teams from around the globe.
League of Legends World Championship
This annual tournament is the world championship for League of Legends, attracting millions of viewers worldwide.
Call of Duty League
This professional league features top Call of Duty teams competing for a championship title.
Online Games
Online games offer a variety of experiences, ranging from casual social games to competitive esports titles. They allow players to connect with others, build communities, and enjoy a shared gaming experience.Online games are particularly relevant to casual gamers due to their accessibility and social nature.
They offer a platform for players to connect with friends, join communities, and participate in casual gameplay sessions. The social aspect of online games enhances the gaming experience, fostering a sense of community and shared enjoyment.Popular online games include:* Fortnite:This battle royale game allows players to compete against each other in a last-man-standing format.
Among Us
This social deduction game involves players working together to identify an imposter among them.
Minecraft
This open-world sandbox game allows players to build anything they can imagine, explore vast worlds, and interact with others.
Conclusion
The future of online games competitions for casual gamers is bright, fueled by a growing community seeking accessible and rewarding experiences. As technology evolves and competition formats become more diverse, the potential for innovation is immense. This trend not only enhances the casual gaming landscape but also creates a dynamic space for social interaction, skill development, and the pursuit of exciting rewards.
Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a casual player looking for a new challenge, the world of online competitions offers something for everyone.
Query Resolution
What are the benefits of participating in online games competitions for casual gamers?
Participating in online games competitions can offer several benefits for casual gamers, including:
- Skill Development: Competitions provide opportunities to hone skills and improve gameplay.
- Social Interaction: Connecting with other players fosters a sense of community and camaraderie.
- Rewards and Recognition: Winning competitions or achieving milestones can provide a sense of accomplishment and tangible rewards.
Are online games competitions only for experienced gamers?
Absolutely not! Online games competitions are designed for all skill levels, with many catering specifically to casual gamers. The focus is on having fun and enjoying the competitive spirit.
What are some examples of popular online games competitions for casual gamers?
Popular examples include tournaments for mobile games like Candy Crush, casual strategy games like Clash of Clans, and even online versions of classic board games like Scrabble.