By Neal Taparia
Tis' the season for social gatherings. Christmas is just around the corner, and you’ll have time to relax and enjoy yourself. Games are a great way to fill that void, especially when you're a guest in someone else's home, visiting relatives, or just stuck at home because of the weather.
It's the perfect time to play some casual games and unwind. That's why we've put together this list of the best casual games you can play this holiday season.
1. Solitaire
Image Source: SolitaireBliss
Spend this holiday season playing your favorite Solitaire games. Solitaire Bliss takes classic Solitaire and reinvents it for the touchscreen generation. It lets you enjoy your favorite card game without any of the usual hassles associated with smartphones and tablets. There is no download or registration required, and features like undo and hints help you win games.
You can play the classic card game, Klondike Solitaire, or try other versions such as Freecell, Spider Solitaire, along with 36 others. Be sure to keep in mind all the customizations that make this app truly unique. For example, you can choose to zoom in and out to make the cards look smaller or larger.
If you love playing offline, Playing Card Decks offers a huge selection of playing cards for the traditional player at great prices.
2. Cribbage
When it's chilly outside, why not cozy up by the fire with a game of cribbage? There are many variations of cribbage available for casual play, including partnership and team play.
A Cribbage board is used for scoring instead of paper and pen. Not having to do much math makes the game faster-paced, as players move their pegs up the board as they earn points.
3. Rise Up
Who doesn't like balloons? Rise Up is a fun way to spend your time by protecting a balloon from obstacles. The floating balloon moves up and down, so the obstacles fly above it.
The game isn't about that, though. It's about you, a finger that tries to save the balloon from different obstacles. As you progress through the levels, many more objects come in from all sides. To progress, you need to hit them away, protecting your balloon from getting hit by any of them. Many levels are available in this game, with new challenges and items to try out every day.
The gameplay is very interactive, but that's what makes it so fun. You also might find a sense of tranquility in the game's simple graphics and colors.
4. I'm-a-Puzzle
Jigsaw puzzles have always been a fun way to relax during the holidays. They're easy to start but challenging enough to keep you occupied for hours. Put on some holiday music and turn up the volume while you're solving puzzles.
I'm a Puzzle is one of the best places to play them online. There are hundreds of free picture puzzles to choose from, as well as the ability to make your own jigsaw puzzles. Whether you like animals, bridges, landscapes, or anything in between, there's something perfect for you!
5. Shuffle Grand Prix
Image Source: Playing Card Decks
Shuffle Grand Prix is a quick-paced card game that sees you racing to the finish line with your fellow drivers.
The art style is reminiscent of old video games. With eight unique drivers, each with unique abilities, Shuffle Grand Prix is a strategic board game that offers enough twists to keep your family and friends entertained for hours during the holidays.
The Bottom Line
It's the holiday season, and you have a lot of free time. This year, why not show everyone how easy it is to have fun with these games.
About the writer: Neal Taparia runs Unwind Media, a casual gaming platform with millions of games played a month.
