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Casual games are small, colorful and captivating computer games with simple rules. Most feature intuitive gameplay, bright graphics and an absence of violence and brutality. Casual games require no long-term time commitment, can be resumed at any time and are very addictive. Another distinguishing feature of casual games is their distribution model. Most are distributed on a shareware, or try-before-you-buy, basis.
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According to research by Alawar Entertainment, which drew information from consumers of casual games in 15 countries, women are the biggest users of casual games (58%), while men are a close second (42%). The typical user in the USA and Canada is a 45-year-old housewife. These countries are responsible for more than half of the casual games purchased worldwide. In Russia, casual games are popular among much younger players.
Over the past few years, casual games have become one of the booming areas of the interactive entertainment market.
According to research by the International Game Developers Association (IGDA)
and the Casual Games Association (CGA), in 2006,
the size of the international casual games market was just shy of $1 billion. According to the IGDA, that
figure will cross the $1.5 billion mark in 2008 (and could go as high as $2 billion), with the North American
share of the market being estimated at $690 million.
Today, the most dynamically developing markets are Western Europe (especially Germany), Asia and Eastern Europe. Despite starting from nothing in 2003, Eastern Europe will deliver $10 million in revenues in 2008. Today, the Eastern European market is growing at a terrific rate, increasing approximately 20-30% each month. As a result, by the end of 2008, the Eastern European market will likely have grown sevenfold compared to 2006. The growth of the market is aided by the fact that around 30% of the casual gaming content created worldwide is being developed in Russia. More info.
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