Moms and Gaming; Quality Time in the Digital Age

Moms hate computer games, right? All that violence, and all the mindless time spent in front of the computer or video console...it's just no substitute for fresh-air fun. This is the mindset of many moms across the country, but the casual games industry -- producers of light-hearted, non-violent games designed to reward players who can't commit large blocks of time to gaming -- is changing that in an increasing number of homes.

"I secretly hope he will like casual games when he gets even older so that we can still enjoy our play dates," admits Maria Waters, mother of three-year-old Marco and Design Manager at casual game powerhouse PlayFirst. "Playing together is fun entertainment, cooperative Mommy and me time, and qualitatively superior to having him just sit in front of the T.V."

Kelly Herbert of Hueytown, AL agrees. "My kids and I love to play casual games together. My oldest son is seven and my youngest son is four. We sit down together at the computer and take turns on levels. They love it. It is not only great fun, but we are spending time together as well. Who knew the computer could turn into family time?"

Ruby McMiller, an office manager in Kenosha, WI, plays with her grown-up children online. "We have Diner Dash tournaments," she says. "That's a lot of fun for us."

Here are six games that casual-gaming moms think might be fun for you.

Diner Dash: Hometown Hero

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Meet Flo, a spunky, no-nonsense small town girl who moves to the big city to seek her fortune. Beginning her career in Finance, Flo quickly realizes that she's after a more hands-on, authentic experience. She finds it in the unrivaled challenges of the Food Service Industry, specifically as a waitress and restaurateur. This life-altering decision is influenced, in part, by her namesake - the energetic and always supportive Grandma Florence.

Also check out...

• Jojo's Fashion Show
  Perfect for moms with an eye for style, the enormously popular Jojo's Fashion Show lets players showcase outfits on a virtual runway.
• Pet Shop Hop
  Match finicky customers with their ideal companions to turn your quaint pet shop into a bustling boutique.
• Dream Chronicles 2
  Even the most gamer-phobic mom can't resist the fantastical lure of this gorgeous adventure game.
• Cake Mania Bundle
  Join Jill the baker in this specially priced double pack. Can you bake enough cakes to save your grandparents' business?
• Mystery Case Files: Madame Fate
  With their innate ability to suss out "missing" report cards, moms are natural detectives. Put those skills to the test in this carnival caper.

SEE THE GAMES:

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