The success of Xbox Live Arcade, which boasts 45 million games downloaded as of July, proves that even hardcore gamers enjoy casual games. The popularity of titles like 'Bookworm Adventures' on MSN and other game portal sites is a testament to the changing times in the video game industry.

In the past, the core gaming audience was dominated by men who grew up on titles like 'Doom' and 'Legend of Zelda.' However, this demographic has been slow to migrate to the casual gaming space. Instead, it's the women over 35 who have discovered a passion for games like 'Bookworm Adventures' through promo campaigns on MSN.

The casual gaming industry is booming, with revenues expected to top $1 billion in 2007. The growth of this sector can be attributed to its accessibility and variety. Game portal sites like Yahoo Games, Real Arcade, and MSN Games offer a wide range of genres, including puzzles, card games, and word games.

One of the key features that sets casual games apart from core games is their try-before-you-buy model. Gamers can sample titles like 'Slingo' and 'Cake Mania' for free before deciding whether to purchase them. This approach has been a major driver of the industry's growth.

The history of casual games dates back to the early days of video gaming, with classic arcade titles like 'Centipede' and 'Pac-Man.' These games were designed to be fun in short, quarter-fed bursts, and they have much in common with today's casual games.

In recent years, the rise of online gaming has given a boost to the casual sector. With the increasing popularity of broadband internet, gamers can now access a wide range of games without having to leave their homes.

The ease of production and distribution is another factor that contributes to the success of casual games. Unlike core games, which often require large teams and budgets, casual games are typically smaller affairs with shorter timelines and modest budgets.

Ellen Beeman, who worked in the core industry for many years before joining Microsoft's casual games unit, believes that there's not as much at stake compared to a triple-A retail title. This allows game developers to focus on creating fun, engaging experiences without the pressure of producing a blockbuster hit.

In conclusion, the success of 'Bookworm Adventures' and other casual games on MSN and other platforms is a testament to the changing times in the video game industry. The growth of the casual sector is driven by its accessibility, variety, and try-before-you-buy model, and it's an exciting space that offers many opportunities for developers and gamers alike.

Msn free online games bookworm