Casual games are a type of video game that is designed to be easy to learn and play, with simple gameplay mechanics and low barriers to entry. They are often played in short sessions, making them ideal for players who want to take a quick break and unwind. Casual games can be found on a variety of platforms, including PC, mobile devices, and gaming consoles.
Casual games often feature light-hearted and entertaining themes, such as puzzle-solving, simulation, and strategy. They are typically less complex and challenging than other types of games, making them appealing to a broad audience of players, including children, adults, and seniors. Many casual games also have social elements, allowing players to connect with friends and compete with others. So without further ado, let’s look at the best casual games across all platforms.
Best Casual Games for Mobile
The top ten casual games for mobile offer a variety of gameplay experiences, from puzzle games like Candy Crush Saga and Bejeweled to never-ending runner games like Subway Surfers and Temple Run. Whether you’re looking for a fun and engaging game to play on your commute or to pass the time, these casual games for mobile offer hours of entertainment and enjoyment.
1. Candy Crush Saga
Candy Crush Saga is a match-three puzzle game that has become a global phenomenon. The game features colorful and delicious-looking candies that players must swap and match in order to progress through the levels. Each level has a different goal, such as clearing a certain number of candies or reaching a certain score.
The game is easy to pick up and play but becomes increasingly challenging as players progress through the levels. Candy Crush Saga also features special candies and power-ups that can help players complete levels more easily. With hundreds of levels to play through, Candy Crush Saga is a fun and addictive game that is perfect for casual gamers.
2. Subway Surfers
Subway Surfers is a never-ending runner game where players must avoid obstacles and collect coins. The game is set in a colorful and vibrant world, with players taking on the role of a graffiti artist who is being chased by a grumpy inspector and his dog. Players must jump, slide, and dodge their way through trains and obstacles in order to escape the inspector.
Along the way, players can collect coins, power-ups, and other items that can help them boost their score and stay ahead of the inspector. Subway Surfers is a fast-paced and exciting game that is perfect for mobile gamers who are looking for a fun and engaging casual experience.
3. Angry Birds
Angry Birds is a physics-based puzzle game where players launch birds at pigs to destroy their structures. The game features a variety of birds with different abilities, such as a red bird that can be launched straight ahead and a yellow bird that can be launched at an angle.
Players must use their strategic skills to aim the birds and take out the pigs in as few moves as possible. The game also features a variety of power-ups and bonuses that can help players complete levels more easily. Angry Birds is a classic mobile game that is simple, fun, and addictive, making it a must-play for casual gamers.
4. Fruit Ninja
Fruit Ninja is a game where players swipe their fingers across the screen to slice fruit while avoiding bombs. The game features a variety of different fruits that players must slice in order to score points and progress through the levels.
The game is fast-paced and challenging, with players needing to react quickly in order to avoid bombs and other obstacles. Fruit Ninja also features a variety of power-ups and bonuses that can help players boost their score and complete levels more easily. With its simple and addictive gameplay, Fruit Ninja is a perfect casual game for mobile gamers.
5. Temple Run
Temple Run is a never-ending runner game where players must avoid obstacles and collect coins. The game is set in a temple environment, with players taking on the role of an explorer who is being chased by a group of monkeys. Players must jump, slide, and dodge their way through obstacles in order to escape the monkeys.
Along the way, players can collect coins and other items that can help them boost their score and stay ahead of the monkeys. Temple Run has been downloaded over 1 billion times since its release in 2011. The game’s popularity has also led to the creation of several sequels and spin-offs.
6. Pokémon Go
Pokémon Go is an augmented reality game where players can catch and collect Pokémon in the real world. The game uses the player’s GPS location to create a virtual map of their surroundings, with Pokémon appearing on the map as players explore.
Players can catch Pokémon by throwing Poké Balls at them and can also train and battle their Pokémon against other players. The game’s popularity has also led to the creation of several spin-offs, merchandise, and events such as Pokémon Go Fest.
Also read: Pokemon Go Squirtle Community Day: Full Guide
7. Clash of Clans
Clash of Clans is a strategy game where players build and defend their own villages while attacking other players’ villages. Players must manage their resources, build structures, and train troops in order to defend their village and attack other players.
The game also features a variety of social features, allowing players to join clans and work together to complete quests and earn rewards. Clash of Clans was developed by Supercell and has been downloaded over 500 million times since its release in 2012. The game’s popularity has also led to the creation of a Clash of Clans-themed animated series and merchandise such as clothing and toys.
8. Words with Friends
Words with Friends is a multiplayer word game where players take turns creating words on a virtual game board. Players can challenge their friends or play against strangers in a variety of different game modes.
Words with Friends has become so popular that it has been downloaded over 200 million times since its release in 2009. The game’s popularity has also led to the creation of several sequels and spin-offs.
Also read: Words with Friends Cheat: How to Boost Your Game Strategy
9. Bejeweled
Bejeweled is a match-three puzzle game where players swap gems to create matches. The game features colorful and shiny gems that players must match in order to earn points and progress through levels.
Bejeweled was developed by PopCap Games and has been downloaded over 500 million times since its release in 2001. The game’s popularity has also led to the creation of several sequels and spin-offs.
10. 2048
2048 is a number-based puzzle game where players slide tiles to combine them and reach the number 2048. The game features a grid of numbered tiles that players must slide in order to merge tiles with the same number.
Each move adds a new tile to the board, making the game increasingly challenging as players progress. 2048 was developed by Gabriele Cirulli and has been played by millions of people around the world since its release in 2014. The game’s popularity has also led to the creation of several spin-offs, including a multiplayer version called 2048 Battle.
Best Casual Games for PC
There are many great casual games available for PC, offering a wide range of gameplay styles and themes. One popular option is Stardew Valley, a farming simulation game that allows players to build and customize their own farm, interact with a variety of characters, and participate in seasonal events. Another popular choice is Minecraft, a sandbox-style game that allows players to build and explore their own worlds, with endless possibilities for creativity and adventure. For puzzle fans, games like Portal and Tetris are also great options, offering challenging gameplay and engaging mechanics. Other popular casual games for PC include The Sims, Terraria, and Among Us, each with their own unique gameplay and features. With so many great options to choose from, PC gamers are sure to find a casual game that suits their interests and provides hours of entertainment.
1. Minecraft
Minecraft is a sandbox game where players can build and explore virtual worlds made out of blocks. The game features a variety of different modes, including survival mode, creative mode, and adventure mode. In survival mode, players must gather resources and build structures to survive against monsters and other hazards.
In creative mode, players have unlimited resources and can build whatever they want. Minecraft also features multiplayer modes, allowing players to collaborate and build together. With its endless possibilities and open-ended gameplay, Minecraft is a popular casual game for PC players of all ages.
Also read: What is the Bedrock version of Minecraft? Which one is better Java or Bedrock?
2. The Sims 4
The Sims 4 is a life simulation game where players can create and control virtual people called Sims. Players can customize their Sims’ appearance, personality, and relationships and can guide them through their daily lives. The game features a variety of different career paths, hobbies, and social activities that players can explore.
The Sims 4 also features an extensive modding community, allowing players to customize and expand the game even further. With its immersive gameplay and endless possibilities, The Sims 4 is a popular casual game for PC players who enjoy simulation and role-playing games.
Also read: Discover the Best Sims 4 Expansion Packs: From City Living to Cats & Dogs and More!
3. Stardew Valley
Stardew Valley is a farming simulation game where players can build and manage their own farm. The game features a variety of different crops and animals that players can raise, as well as a variety of different crafting and cooking options.
Stardew Valley also features a variety of different characters and storylines, allowing players to explore the town and interact with the other residents. With its relaxing gameplay and charming graphics, Stardew Valley is a popular casual game for PC players who enjoy simulation and strategy games.
4. Among Us
Among Us is a multiplayer game where players must work together to complete tasks on a spaceship while trying to identify and vote off any imposters among the crew. The game features a variety of different maps and game modes, as well as a variety of different roles and abilities.
Among Us became a global phenomenon in 2020, with millions of players around the world playing the game and creating their own memes and fan art. The game’s popularity has led to the creation of several new maps and game modes, as well as a physical version of the game. Among Us has also been used in educational settings to teach skills such as teamwork and critical thinking.
Also read: Why is Among Us so popular? + Best Online Multiplayer Games
5. Portal 2
Portal 2 is a puzzle game where players must use a device called a Portal Gun to create portals that allow them to navigate through different environments. The game features a variety of different puzzles and obstacles that players must solve in order to progress through the levels.
Portal 2 also features a single-player campaign as well as a cooperative multiplayer mode, allowing players to work together to solve puzzles. Portal 2 has been praised for its clever puzzles and witty humor, as well as its innovative gameplay mechanics. The game’s popularity has led to the creation of several fan-made mods and maps, expanding the game’s content and replayability. Portal 2 has also been used in educational settings to teach physics and problem-solving skills.
6. Terraria
Terraria is a 2D sandbox game where players can explore and build in a procedurally generated world. The game features a variety of different enemies and bosses, as well as a variety of different crafting and building options.
Terraria’s popularity has led to the creation of several updates and expansions, adding new features and gameplay options to the game. The game has also been used in educational settings to teach subjects such as geography and biology. Terraria’s open-ended gameplay and exploration elements have also made it a popular game for streaming and content creation.
7. The Binding of Isaac
The Binding of Isaac is a roguelike game where players must navigate through randomly generated dungeons while battling monsters and collecting power-ups. The game features a variety of different items and abilities that players can use to customize their playstyle.
The Binding of Isaac also features a dark and twisted storyline, adding a sense of depth and immersion to the gameplay. The game’s popularity has led to the creation of several fan-made mods and expansions, adding new items and enemies to the game. The Binding of Isaac has also been used in therapeutic settings to help individuals with anxiety and depression.
Also read: From Hades To Crypt Of The NecroDancer, Top 10 Dungeon Crawlers
8. Don’t Starve
Don’t Starve is a survival game where players must gather resources and build structures in order to survive against monsters and other hazards. The game features a variety of different characters, each with their own strengths and weaknesses.
Don’t Starve’s popularity has led to the creation of several updates and expansions, adding new biomes and gameplay options to the game. The game’s unique art style and survival mechanics have also made it a popular game for streaming and content creation. Don’t Starve has also been used in educational settings to teach survival skills and environmental awareness.
9. Overcooked 2
Overcooked 2 is a cooperative cooking game where players must work together to prepare and serve food in a variety of different kitchens. The game features a variety of different recipes and cooking challenges, as well as a variety of different characters and customization options.
Overcooked 2 also features local and online multiplayer modes, allowing players to collaborate and compete with others. Overcooked 2 has been praised for its fast-paced gameplay and cooperative elements, as well as its wacky humor. The game’s popularity has led to the creation of several new kitchens and game modes, as well as a physical version of the game. Overcooked 2 has also been used in team-building exercises and corporate events.
10. Cities: Skylines
Cities: Skylines is a city-building simulation game where players can design and manage their own cities. The game features a variety of different options and settings, allowing players to customize their cities to their liking. Cities: Skylines also features a variety of different challenges and obstacles, such as traffic management and environmental concerns.
Cities: Skylines has been praised for its realistic city-building mechanics and attention to detail. The game’s popularity has led to the creation of several updates and expansions, adding new features and gameplay options to the game. Cities: Skylines has also been used in educational settings to teach urban planning and infrastructure management. The game’s modding community has also created several custom content and maps, expanding the game’s content and replayability.
Best Casual Games for Console
Console gamers also have access to a wide range of great casual games. Animal Crossing: New Horizons, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, and Super Mario Party are all popular choices for Nintendo Switch players, featuring fun gameplay and multiplayer modes. PlayStation users can enjoy games like Astro’s Playroom, Knack 2, and Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart, which offer engaging platforming and action gameplay, as well as unique features like virtual reality and haptic feedback. Xbox players can enjoy games like Minecraft, Overcooked 2, and Stardew Valley, which are also available on PC and offer fun and relaxing gameplay. Whether you are a fan of platformers, simulation games, or multiplayer games, there are plenty of great casual games available for console players to enjoy.
1. Animal Crossing: New Horizons (Nintendo Switch)
Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a life simulation game where players can create and customize their own island paradise. The game features a variety of different activities, such as fishing, bug catching, and gardening, as well as a variety of different characters and storylines.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons also features multiplayer modes, allowing players to visit and interact with each other’s islands. With its relaxing gameplay and charming graphics, Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a popular casual game for console players of all ages.
One of the unique aspects of Animal Crossing: New Horizons is the ability to customize and decorate your island paradise to your liking. Players can design their own clothing, furniture, and even create their own custom designs with a user-friendly design tool. This feature allows players to express their creativity and make their island feel truly unique.
2. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (Nintendo Switch)
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a kart racing game where players can compete against each other in a variety of different races and challenges. The game features a variety of different courses and characters, as well as a variety of different vehicles and power-ups.
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe also features local and online multiplayer modes, allowing players to compete with others from around the world. With its fast-paced gameplay and entertaining themes, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a popular casual game for console players who enjoy racing and multiplayer games.
In addition to the classic race modes, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe also includes a battle mode where players can compete in a variety of different challenges, such as capturing the flag or popping balloons. This mode adds an extra layer of excitement and strategy to the game and is a popular choice for players who enjoy multiplayer games.
3. Super Mario Party (Nintendo Switch)
Super Mario Party is a party game where players can compete against each other in a variety of different mini-games and challenges. The game features a variety of different game modes and characters, as well as a variety of different boards and challenges.
Super Mario Party also features local and online multiplayer modes, allowing players to compete with others from around the world. One of the standout features of Super Mario Party is the ability to play with multiple Switch consoles, allowing up to four players to compete against each other in Toad’s Rec Room. This feature allows players to connect their consoles and play in unique ways, such as combining their screens to create larger game boards or playing mini-games that utilize both screens.
4. Astro’s Playroom (PlayStation 5)
Astro’s Playroom is a platformer game that comes pre-installed on the PlayStation 5, featuring a variety of different levels and challenges. The game is designed to showcase the features of the PlayStation 5, including the DualSense controller and 3D audio.
Astro’s Playroom features a variety of different gameplay styles, including platforming, puzzle-solving, and exploration. Astro’s Playroom is not only a fun game but also serves as a tech demo for the PlayStation 5. The game showcases the console’s impressive graphics, 3D audio, and DualSense controller features, such as haptic feedback and adaptive triggers. This makes Astro’s Playroom a great introduction to the capabilities of the PlayStation 5.
5. Knack 2 (PlayStation 4)
Knack 2 is a platformer game where players control a shape-shifting character and battle enemies in a variety of different levels. The game features a variety of different abilities and power-ups, allowing players to customize their playstyle.
Knack 2 features a co-op mode where players can team up with a friend and play through the game together. This mode allows players to work together to overcome challenges and is a great option for players who enjoy cooperative gameplay.
6. Cozy Grove
Cozy Grove is a popular indie game developed by Spry Fox, released in 2021 for multiple platforms including Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox, and PC. The game is a life simulation and exploration game, where players control a Spirit Scout who is stranded on a haunted island called Cozy Grove. The goal of the game is to help the ghostly inhabitants of the island find peace by completing quests, crafting items, and exploring the island’s many secrets.
One of the unique aspects of Cozy Grove is that the game progresses in real-time, with new tasks and events becoming available each day. This creates a sense of continuity and encourages players to return to the game regularly. The game also features a charming hand-drawn art style and a relaxing soundtrack, creating a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
7. Sackboy: A Big Adventure (PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4)
Sackboy: A Big Adventure is a platformer game where players control Sackboy and explore a variety of different levels and challenges. In addition to the main story mode, Sackboy: A Big Adventure also includes side levels that are inspired by classic PlayStation games, such as Gravity Rush and Shadow of the Colossus.
These levels provide a fun and nostalgic experience for longtime PlayStation fans. A Big Adventure is a popular casual game for PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4 players who enjoy platformers and adventure games.
8. The Playroom VR (PlayStation VR)
The Playroom VR is a collection of mini-games designed specifically for virtual reality, allowing players to experience a variety of different gameplay types. The Playroom VR includes a variety of mini-games that are designed to be fun and accessible for players of all ages. These games range from simple shooting galleries to more complex puzzle games, making it a great choice for families and players who are new to virtual reality.
9. Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart (PlayStation 5)
Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart is a platformer game where players control Ratchet and Clank and explore a variety of different levels and challenges. The game features a variety of different weapons and gadgets, allowing players to customize their playstyle.
The game also showcases the capabilities of the PlayStation 5, featuring stunning graphics and fast load times. With its engaging story and exciting gameplay, Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart is a popular casual game for PlayStation 5 players who enjoy platformers and action games.
10. Wii Sports Club (Wii U)
Wii Sports Club is a collection of sports games that utilize the motion controls of the Wii U GamePad and Wii Remotes. The game features a variety of different sports, including tennis, boxing, and bowling, as well as a variety of different game modes and challenges.
Wii Sports Club includes online multiplayer modes that allow players to compete with others from around the world. This feature keeps the game fresh and exciting for players who have already beaten all the challenges and are looking for new opponents to compete against.
In conclusion
These games represent some of the best casual games available across a variety of platforms. From life simulation games to platformers and sports simulations, these games offer a diverse range of gameplay and themes to suit any player’s interests. They also feature multiplayer modes, allowing players to compete and collaborate with others and showcase the unique features of each platform, such as motion controls, virtual reality, and haptic feedback. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a casual player looking for a fun and relaxing experience, these games are sure to provide hours of entertainment.