Casual News – Dec. 9, 2008

A survey finds that more than half of adults play casual games, Sonic the Hedgehog creator SEGA launches a casual games portal, and PopCap announces plans for a mobile version of Bejeweled Twist. These headlines and more below.

News

• RealNetworks launches its first cross-platform game for iPhone and other platforms
• Ludia and WildTangent partner to put advertisers in top casual game releases of 2009
• SEGA launches casual games portal
• PopCap Games announces plans for mobile version of Bejeweled Twist
• PrizeRoom launches casual games with promotional prizes
• It’s beginning to look a lot like Yuletide in Wizard101
• Steampunk casual MMO Gatheryn to be developed with HeroEngine
• Burda:ic brings the power of the elements to Florensia
• Corbomite Games announces Pizza Morgana
• Destineer brings five titles to Nintendo DS for under $20

Features

• Survey finds over half of adults play casual games
• RealNetworks talks Tiki Towers and its journey into WiiWare
• Big Fish talks broader casual audiences for Mystery Case Files
• Game industry maverick Bernie Stolar: unplugged and worried about crappy games
• Female players reign supreme in casual games
• Gaming gets a level up on age
• 2008: The year of the casual gamer?
• And the winner is…? Apple vs. Nintendo vs. Sony
• Gaming growth strong despite slowdown

Erin Bell