Digital Pay2Play entertainment is commonly defined as those games played online, across mobile platforms and frequently utilising social networks. These games can be played for cash or non-cash rewards. We define digital Pay2Play entertainment as a system or platform where three elements are present :
- A gameplay mechanism, the outcome of which is dependent, at least in part, on luck.
- A payment mechanism, where a player can fund their payment through a purchase of software, through funding an account, through subscriptions or through purchasing virtual goods or virtual services which allow them to further their enjoyment of the game.
- A reward mechanism, where a player is rewarded through either cash or non-cash rewards.
Casual games are generally defined as games whose gameplay can be easily and quickly learned. Such casual games are by nature, simple gameplay mechanisms but frequently require great skill to master. We include casino or poker games as casual. Casual games are currently predominantly played for non-cash rewards, although it is the our belief that many countries will soon regulate digital cash gaming, allowing players to switch from ‘free to play’ versions of casino games to cash gaming versions.
At present, most cash gaming and casual gaming is played through fixed-line network devices such as personal computers with broadband connections. However, two new platforms have emerged which have revolutionised the popularity of casual games :
- Social games, which are played across social networks such as Facebook, allowing players to interact and socialise with their friends, sharing points totals, achievements, creating leader boards and chatting.
- Mobile games, often HTML-5 versions of casual games, optimised to be played on smaller mobile screens such as smart phones and tablets.