There are plenty of casual games out there, but sometimes actually finding something to play can be a chore. After all, unlike traditional games, you can't simply go out to a store and pick the latest hidden object game off the shelf. Thankfully there are plenty of online casual game portals that do all of the work for you, leaving you with just one decision: what should I play? Here are eight of our favorites.
1. Big Fish Games
One of the most popular destinations for casual games, Big Fish Games is notable for its pricing scheme: every game is $6.99, every day. It also features a Game Club, a subscription service that gives users one free game a month and access to members only daily specials. The site's easy to navigate, and features dedicated sections to specific genres like hidden object and match-3. BFG's library is huge, and features both PC and Mac sections, as well as numerous free-to-play online games.
2. iWin
Like BFG, iWin features a massive catalog of both free and for-pay casual games that tops the 900 mark. And for a $10 per month subscription, you get unlimited access to the entire thing. It features big-name franchises like Jewel Quest and Farm Mania and frequently has big sales, offering games for up to 754ff.
3. Steam
Steam offers a wide-range of different types of video games, and this includes a great casual games section. And while the selection may not be as large as other casual game portals, there are lots of excellent games to be found: from big name releases from developers like PopCap to indie hits like Osmos. Steam also frequently offers tremendous deals, offering bundles of games for absurdly low prices.
4. Adult Swim
If you're in the mood for something a little more...interesting, Adult Swim offers a variety of free, oddball Flash games. Some have you playing as a werewolf ice cream salesman, while others have you taking the reins of a robotic unicorn. They're as strange as they are addictive, and great to play in quick bursts. Just keep in mind that the majority of the games on the site are intended for an older audience and could be disturbing for younger gamers.
5. Newgrounds
One of the best places to find Flash games, Newgrounds has a huge library of quirky and fun games. It features games of the day, week, and of all-time, so whether you're new to the site or a veteran, there's always something fresh to play. The library includes classic Flash games like Alien Hominid, and you can even search games by developer, just in case you have an affinity for a particular game creator. It even includes a rating system so you can tell at a glance if a game is suitable for younger players.
6. Facebook
The world's largest social network is also quickly becoming one of the best places on the web to find great games. Games like Gangster City show just how polished Facebook games have become, and the number of titles available on the platform continues to grow. The service was also recently updated with a dashboard dedicated solely to gaming, making it easier than ever to keep your FarmVille addiction going strong.
7. Kongregate
Kongregate not only features a wealth of some of the best free-to-play games, but also wraps it up with some great organization and unique features. Players can rate games, and the top-rated are listed on the front page, making them easy to find. You can also chat with other players during a game, and earn achievements: small, specific rewards that you can earn by getting a certain score or by completing other in-game actions. These achievements are tied to your Kongregate profile so that other users can see just how good (or bad) you are at whichever games you play.
8. Games.com
AOL's casual gaming site has over 1300 games available to play, and offers both download and online experiences. These are divided up into 14 different genres, and the site's front page guides players to both the latest releases and the top picks from Games.com's editors. And if you want to keep up with the latest casual gaming news, the site also features a frequently updated blog offering up-to-the-date news and info.