There's never been a bigger time for games – specifically online games, than right now. The fact that people have always enjoyed the competitive and mentally stimulating nature that a game can provide is just a part of the reason. What makes it so compelling via the Internet is that there are clear advantages that traditional game playing can't match. Plus, there are major Internet companies that are seeing the business case and potential for this industry. In fact, it's estimated that it will be a $6.8 billion business by 2011.

Role playing games, puzzle games, traditional games like chess and backgammon – they are all becoming big in the online world, with more and more people playing every day. So, what makes online games more fun and what are the specific benefits one can enjoy?

Ability to Play from Home at Any time

Obviously, the idea that you can play from home, whenever your heart desires is a big draw. There's no need to go down to the local chess hangout, or smokey bar. No need to go over to a friend's house either. Simply boot up, jump on and sign in. You can play your best friend from the comfort of your own bedroom.

Low Subscription Cost or Free Use

A lot of the major online gaming companies feature a low subscription cost for its members. This is one reason for the major rise in these sites memberships. Many sites also have free games; games such as Scrabble, Family Feud, Dominoes and Jewel Quest can be played for free. The free online versions of the games offer users the chance to experience the game before making the decision to purchase and download.

The Chance to Compete with Best

OK, so your best friend isn't really that good at backgammon. But, you want to improve your game. You also want to be challenged. Well, with online games, you can truly compete with the best there is. Want to play some stellar chess players? You'll probably find a few online. Looking for some tough competition in Mah Jong Quest? Again, you're only an Internet connection away from engaging some high quality players. Of course, at the same time, you may encounter some fairly weak players too. It may take some time to cultivate relationships, but they are out there. And online is really the only true way to find them quickly.

Making New Friends

So, you tend to be somewhat introverted, but still want to develop some new friendships. How about joining an online game site and meeting a few people? It happens every day. Many games offer advanced features that allow you to interact with other players in real time. Plus, you may make some cool international connections, which makes for a much more interesting exchange. Different cultures, different personalities, but one thing definitely in common – you both like playing online games.

High Quality Sound and Graphics

Your brand new X Box has a fantastic sound and graphics package, but you had to pay a lot to get it right? Well, your online games will have some pretty incredible audio and video features as well, but guess what? You didn't have to pay to experience it! Plus, as more and more companies join the industry, you're going to see them competing on this level. How are they going to get more people to join their site and play games? They'll make the games state of the art –with all the new technology and latest features.

So, there you have it, the virtues of online games. It's easy now, after analyzing it a bit, to see what has fueled the incredible growth. Whether you are attracted to it for competitive reasons, cost issues, the variety of the offerings, or any other reason, one thing is definitely true: an entire new online community is being developed in a very short amount of time. People, who would have never had the chance to meet, are not only interacting in a totally new way, they are having a great time doing it!