MySpace Gets in the Game

Social networkers rejoice; MySpace has finally launched a games portal. According to the page’s mission statement, the site promises “the best online games available in a safe, user-friendly environment” and caters to hardcore gamers and newbies alike.

The launch, announced last year, arrives as Facebook continues to affirm its role as social networkers’ casual gaming Mecca. MySpace’s portal, while impressive, seems to offer less in the way of multi-player appeal than its veteran competitor.
Actually, the portal features substantially fewer options than those found on Facebook. At least for now, members cannot invite others to join in massive social games a la Facebook Duels. Nor will they be able to create their own games. There is no word yet on whether we can expect these features in the future.

There’s been a lot of buzz surrounding so-called “casual gaming” as of late, so it’s no great surprise that MySpace wants a piece of the pie. Really, the most surprising aspect is the fact that it has taken them so long to get in the game. At this point it looks like MySpace is going to be stuck playing catch-up for some time.
It’s not all gloom and doom for MySpace, however. The array of games offered is impressive, akin to those found on Yahoo! Games. With several different genres—ranging from cards to original, arcade-style titles—casual gaming fans shouldn’t be disappointed with the line-up.
Whichever social network you call home, any increased competition should benefit both sides. Here’s hoping that some of Facebook’s more popular games (anyone else thinking Oregon Trail?) come to MySpace in the near future.