Portal Management

Evergreen Games: Timeless Classics Every Business Needs!

Jan 14 2025

Evergreen games are the ones that are always popular because they strike the right chord when it comes to feeling good, making us think, and sticking with us for years or even decades.

In fact, these games were never about looks but their unique and undying gameplay that never goes out of fashion.

From the addictive blocks of Tetris to the brain-teasing fun of Sudoku, the bright worlds of Match-3, and the nostalgic mood of Snake, which feels like a blast from the past, these games keep people all over the world happy and entertained.

Let’s look more closely at what makes these games unique, how they’ve changed over time, why people still love them, and where you can get the license to feature them on your platform or portal.

In this article, I will investigate Evergreen Games—those that have endured the proof of time!

Tetris: The Puzzle Game That Defined a Generation

Tetris, invented by Alexey Pajitnov in 1984, swiftly became one of history’s most famous puzzle games.

The simple mechanics of Tetris—rotating and arranging falling blocks—combined with its demanding gameplay retain player engagement as they remove rows, consequently extending play time while adding to the game’s worldwide appeal.

The game’s simplicity—rotating and positioning falling blocks—combined with its difficulty made it a global sensation.

Originally published on the Electronika 60, it quickly moved to consoles, handheld devices, and computers.

The Enduring Global Appeal of Tetris: Why It’s Still Played Worldwide

Tetris has sold over 100 million copies on all platforms, making it one of the best-selling video games ever.

It has greatly impacted mobile and puzzle entertainment.

The fact that it is still prevalent in popular culture and video games shows how popular it is.

It was even released on 8th-generation consoles, such as Sony’s PlayStation 4.

Its popularity comes from the game’s straightforward basics and the challenge of reaching a high score. Casual gamers love it because it’s easy to learn but hard to get good at.

Its availability on practically every gaming platform and portability has cemented its place as a global favorite.

At the same time, its ability to adapt to changing technologies and audiences ensures it remains relevant even decades after its release.

The Evolution of Tetris: New Versions for Modern Audiences

Tetris 99 (2019), a battle royale edition for the Nintendo Switch, is the most recent major release in the series’ ongoing evolution.

As another example,  Tetris Effect (2018), a VR adaptation that is visually striking, combines traditional gameplay with today’s technology.

Where Can You Acquire Game Licenses for Titles Like Tetris?

HTML5 versions of Tetris are available through various online game portals like:

• DoonDookStudio: Tetra Block
• Famobi: 1000 Blocks
• MarketJs: Trixology
• CodeCanyon: Christmas Tetris, Fruit Tetris

Sudoku: An Ageless Puzzle Icon

Sudoku, a logic-based number puzzle, originated in ancient number-placement games.

Though Howard Garns first created it in 1979 under the name “Number Place,” the present version became famous in Japan in the 1980s under the name “Sudoku,” published by Nikoli, a puzzle publisher. In Japanese, the word “sudoku” means “single number”.

The Universal Appeal of Sudoku

Due to its accessibility, limitless flexibility, and calming nature, Sudoku has always been a popular game.

The game’s adaptability is remarkable, according to SudokuX. It provides several levels of difficulty that are suitable for both novice and seasoned problem solvers.

Additionally, the puzzle’s easy rules make it possible for a wide range of levels of difficulty, from easy fun to tough challenges.

The game’s adaptability stems from its solo mode, which allows for individual fulfillment in any setting without any kind of time limit. Its enduring appeal is further enhanced by its brain-boosting benefits, as players sharpen their logic and problem-solving skills with every puzzle they solve.

Sudoku Variations: New Challenges for Enthusiasts

There are now many different versions of Sudoku, like Killer Sudoku, Sudoku-X, and Samurai Sudoku.

As a whole, they make the game more interesting and difficult.

Another way that digital versions of websites and applications increase accessibility is by including interactive features like statistics and suggestions.

Mental Advantages and Worldwide Appeal

As it is both easy to learn and difficult to master, Sudoku has a wide audience.

Since it doesn’t require any language or sophisticated mathematics knowledge, it can be used by people of many ages and cultures.

Plus, its cognitive benefits, such as enhanced problem-solving and focus, contribute to Sudoku’s popularity.

Where Can You Acquire Game Licenses for Titles Like Sudoku?

• DoonDookStudio: Sudoku
• Famobi: Sudoku Classic
• CodeCanyon: Master Sudoku Game, Ultimate Sudoku,
• MarketJs: Sudoku Village, Sudoku Blocks
• FreakXGames: SudokuX

 

Match-3 – A Genre with Enduring Popularity and Success

From old favorites like Tetris and Shariki to new favorites like Candy Crush Saga and Bejeweled (2001), match-3 games have come a long way over the years.

Visually appealing and challenging, these games have a clear mechanic: line up three or more similar tiles.

Modern Developments: The Dominance of Match-3 Games

On the other hand, some other games, like Playrix’s Gardenscapes, combine puzzles with story-based gameplay, which makes them even more popular and profitable.

Advanced Marketing and Data Analytics in Match-3 Games

To maximize player acquisition and retention, developers like King (Candy Crush) and Playrix (Gardenscapes) have also employed complex data analytics and marketing methods.

Where Can You Acquire Match-3 Game Licenses?

• MarketJS: Color Block Blast 3, Match-3 To Win
• Famobi: Pirates!, Jewelish,

 

Solitaire: A Card Game with a Storied Past

With roots in northern Europe in the late 18th century, Solitaire, which is also called “Patience,” has a long and impressive past.

The game first came to light in German writings, and in the nineteenth century, it became quite popular in France and Sweden.

By the twentieth century, the game had carved out its own niche as a popular leisure pastime, providing single-player interaction in a largely multiplayer gaming environment.

The Digital Transformation of Solitaire

Brad Fregger’s commercial solitaire collection, released in 1987, marked the beginning of the digital evolution of solitaire.

However, Microsoft’s inclusion of Klondike Solitaire in Windows 3.0 (1990) introduced a revolutionary change in the accessibility of the game.

With its iconic status, the game introduced millions of people to computers and helped them become better mouse users.

Solitaire’s Global Popularity and Longevity

With 35 million monthly players and more than 100 million hands dealt daily, Solitaire is still one of the most popular digital games in the world, according to TheWrap.

Just Microsoft Solitaire has been downloaded over 200 million times on different devices.

Ludo: A Game with Ancient Roots

Ludo is a simplified version of the ancient Indian game Pachisi, which has been played for more than a millennium.

It was modified for easier gameplay, whereas Pachisi was played on elaborately patterned boards using dice or cowrie shells.

Alfred Collier, an Englishman, adapted Pachisi’s intricate rules for a Western audience and trademarked the updated Ludo in 1896.

Ludo’s Digital Renaissance

Ludo has been given new life in the digital age. Mobile apps such as Ludo King and Ludo Star include multiplayer options, innovative gameplay twists, and cash incentives.

These platforms have enabled international access to Ludo. No wonder it resulted in a significantly growing player base, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ludo’s Global Popularity and Success

According to Gametion, the parent company of Ludo King, the app had been downloaded over 900 million times by 2024. Gametion claims that this game was one of the three most downloaded titles of 2022.

This popularity translates into significant ad revenue and in-app sales, particularly in countries such as India, where casual gaming is on the rise.

The Universal Appeal of Ludo

The simplicity and sociability of Ludo make it a universally appealing game.

As a source of both nostalgia and friendly rivalry, the game knows no cultural or age barrier.

Where Can You Acquire Ludo Game Licenses?

• DoonDookStudio: Ludo
• CodeCanyon: Easy Ludo Game, Ludo Killer

Jigsaw Puzzles: A Timeless Form of Entertainment

John Spilsbury, a London geographer, made the first jigsaw puzzle in the 1760s by putting a map on wood and cutting it up into pieces to teach geography.

Their original purpose was as instructional tools, and they were referred to as “dissected maps” in the past.

The Resurgence of Jigsaw Puzzles During the Great Depression

During the Great Depression, jigsaw puzzles became extremely popular as a cheap source of entertainment and distraction.

In these economically trying times, they were an appreciated break for those looking for affordable leisure.

Jigsaw Puzzles, Loved by FB Instant Users

Jigsaw puzzles are extremely popular on FB Gaming, drawing in millions of players.

For instance, Jigsaw Puzzle on FB gaming has over 2 million active users. A significant part of their appeal comes from features that let users transform their own pictures into puzzles, enhancing personal engagement with the game.

The same also applies to jigsaw puzzle games on Google Play. For example, Jigsaw Puzzles by EasyBrain has over 100M downloads.

This is the best evidence that this genre is still highly popular.

Market Surge and Growing Popularity

According to AARP, the jigsaw puzzle market boomed during the pandemic, with sales increasing by 300% in some areas. The demand for puzzles in both traditional and digital formats is expected to fuel the market’s steady growth.

Their power to both comfort and stimulate the mind is what makes jigsaw puzzles so popular.

From kids to grownups, they provide something for everyone, with an emphasis on developing social skills, increasing one’s capacity for mindfulness, and solving problems.

Where Can You Acquire Jigsaw Puzzle Game Licenses?

• DoonDookStudio: Jigsaw Casual
• Famobi: Jigsaw Puzzle Deluxe, Jigsaw Puzzle XMas
• MarketJS: Jigsaw Puzzle
• Codecanyon: Jigsaw Animal, Jigsaw Puzzle

 

Bubble Shooter: A Classic Casual Shooter Game

Inspired by Taito’s Puzzle Bobble from 1994, Absolutist LTD launched Bubble Shooter for the first time in 2002. As time went on, the game has evolved into a timeless casual puzzler.

The objective of the game is for players to get rid of colored bubbles by shooting them in groups of three or more.

Expansion and Growth in the Digital Era

When Ilyon Dynamics acquired the game in 2015, they added features like Facebook Messenger and Skillz eSports integration and improved the game’s mobile accessibility.

Bubble Shooter’s Success and Financial Impact

According to Ilyon, the game has received more than 50 million mobile downloads and continues to generate revenue through adverts, microtransactions, and paid premium versions. This goes to show that it is one of the most popular social games in terms of making money.

Accessibility and Innovations in Gameplay

The game is still widely available on browsers, iOS, and Android, and it receives regular upgrades that improve gameplay.

Recent talks among developers have focused on the possibility of using augmented or virtual reality in the future, with the goal of updating the classic recipe while keeping its core.

Major portals, including Poki, Crazy Games, and Facebook Instant Games, offer a variety of bubble shooter games, each with its own distinctive design and variations, with the goal to be appealing to a diversified audience.

Where Can You Acquire Bubble Shooter Game Licenses?

• DoonDookStudio: Bubble Up Endless, Bubble Up
• Famobi: Candy Bubble, Bubble Tower 3D, Bubble Woods
• MarketJS: Bubble Pop
• CodeCanyon: Shoot the Bubble, Pastry Chef Bubble Shooter

 

Crossword Puzzle: The Ageless Word Game of All Time!

Englishman Arthur Wynne came up with the idea for the crossword puzzle in 1913. The New York World published it for the first time on December 21, 1913.

Originally in the shape of a diamond, the modern crossword puzzle hit its stride when big newspapers started using it in the 1920s.

Backlash accompanied its ascent; in 1924, The New York Times even referred to it as a “sinful waste” before embracing it in 1930.

This rise in word-based games inspired other popular titles like Wordscapes, Word Cookies, and Words With Friends, each offering unique gameplay. 

Wordscapes combines crossword-style puzzles with word search mechanics, while Word Cookies challenges players to form words from a set of letters. Words With Friends introduces a competitive multiplayer aspect, similar to Scrabble.

These games, alongside others like Boggle and Letterpress, continue to captivate players with their blend of vocabulary-building and puzzle-solving fun.

The Digital Revolution of Crosswords

The digital era has brought about changes to crossword puzzles.

The New York Times and other news outlets have been providing daily crossword puzzles online since 1993, making the game more accessible to people all around the world.

The Financial Success of Crossword Puzzles

Crossword puzzles are incredibly profitable. Through its subscription-based puzzle program, the New York Times generates millions of dollars.

Mobile apps and websites also monetize through ad revenue and premium subscriptions.

Available Across Multiple Platforms

Print media, online newspapers, apps such as NY Times Crossword and Crossword.com, and social media sites like Facebook all offer crossword puzzles.

Their versatility guarantees that players of all ages will find them entertaining, as they may easily transition from simple to complicated cryptic puzzles.

Where Can You Acquire Crossword Puzzle Game Licenses?

• DoonDookStudio: DD Wording, Word Haven, Word Clues
• MarketJS: Crossword Casual, Mini Crossword
• CodeCanyon: HTML5 Crossword, Halloween Crossword for Kids
• Famobi: Word Search Classic, Word Bird
• FreakXGames: Guess the Word

Mahjong: A Rich Tradition with Global Appeal

Mahjong began in China during the Qing Dynasty (about the middle of the nineteenth century) and has since spread over the world, mainly in East Asia.

The game, which has four players and is thought to have originated from Chinese card games, centers around trying to win by creating precise tile combinations.

It quickly caught on all over the world, especially in Japan, the US, and other parts of Asia, where new versions like American Mahjong and Riichi sprang up soon after.

Mahjong in the Digital Age

The game of Mahjong has come a long way, entering the digital realm. With the advent of online platforms such as Mahjong Solitaire (a single-player variant) and multiplayer applications, the game has reached a global audience.

More recent versions, like MegaZebra’s Mahjong Trails, add social and competitive components, increasing the game’s accessibility on mobile devices.

Over 300 million individuals play mahjong games every day, whether through digital platforms or traditional tables, as per BoomerGamers.

Mahjong’s Accessibility Across Platforms

Multiple platforms offer Mahjong, such as mobile apps (like Mahjong City Tours), PC versions, and websites such as Mahjong.com and Pogo.

Mahjong’s profound roots in East Asian culture and intellectual difficulty continue to attract players, while its global reach guarantees it remains a favorite game.

There have been a plethora of similar versions of this game with different tiles, aesthetics, and some in-game modifications.

Where Can You Acquire a Mahjong Game License for Your Platform?

• DoonDookStudio: Mahjong Classic, Pretty Tiles
• MarketJS: Monster Mahjong, EZ Mahjong, Mahjong Pyramid
• CodeCanyon: Mahjong Farm, Sweety Mahjong, Mahjong Deluxe
• Famobi: Mahjong World, Mahjong 3D, Mahjong Classic

2048: The Viral Puzzle Game That Took the Internet by Storm

Gabriele Cirulli, an Italian developer who was only 19 years old at the time, came up with the idea for the sliding puzzle game 2048 in March 2014.

The game’s objective is to mix numbered tiles on a 4×4 grid until one tile reaches the value of 2048.

Inspired by games like “1024” and “Threes,” Cirulli created his own unique style. Even though it was only done over the weekend, the project became very famous very quickly after being shared on social media and made open source, which helped it spread even more.

Variations and Clones of 2048

Countless variants of the game have surfaced since its viral surge; the game’s popularity sparked a wave of imitation, ranging from 3D versions to ones that incorporate meme themes (like Doge). Ketchapp and other commercial clones have already emerged on mobile platforms, although the original game still holds its ground, remaining free and easily accessible to players worldwide.

The game’s open-source nature has deprived its creator of any substantial revenue, as reported by ohmyfacts.com. However, it has incited a profitable surge of clones, particularly in the mobile app sector, where ad revenue and in-app purchases from clones have proven lucrative.

Some of these cloned versions include:

• 2048 Tetris – A twist on the classic 2048 gameplay, incorporating elements of Tetris where players combine numbered blocks in a grid.
• Threes! – Often considered a precursor to 2048, this game uses a similar sliding mechanic but adds a bit more complexity with its own unique set of rules.
• 2048 Cupcakes – A themed variation of 2048, where instead of numbers, players combine different types of cupcakes to reach higher values.

Where Can You Acquire 2048 Game Licenses?

• DoonDookStudio: 2048 Remastered, 2048 Cards
• CodeCanyon: 2048 Dogs, Boon 2048, 2048 Emoji
• Famobi: 2048
• MarketJS: 2048 Forever, 2048 Dragon Island

 

Tap-To-Blast: The Casual Puzzle Craze

Tap-to-blast games are simple puzzle games in which players tap on clusters of identically colored items to blast them from the board. The gameplay principles of these games are typically easy to understand, making them appealing to casual gamers.

Notable Games and Developer Innovation

Some of the best-known titles in this category are Toy Blast and Toon Blast.

https://youtu.be/6NeEnYzlYP4

To keep players engaged, both games have regular updates that add fresh levels and events.

Titles such as Match Factory are the result of Peak Games’ ongoing innovation in the development of new puzzle game mechanics. New games, like Tap Master or Tap Blast, are also gaining traction.

Impressive Growth and Monetization Strategies

In its first year, Toy Blast was downloaded more than 200 million times, while Toon Blast attracted 100 million users, according to PocketGamer.

In-app purchases, such as boosters and additional lives, as well as ad monetization, are common revenue streams for these games, as long as they’re not F2P games.

The Power of Social Engagement in Tap-To-Blast Games

Another thing that makes this genre popular is that players can share their progress and help each other through in-game interactions.

Where Can You Acquire a Tap-to-Blast Game License for Your Platform?

• DoonDookStudio: Blastify II, DD Blastify
• MarketJS: Candy Blast, Chicken Blast
• CodeCanyon: Color Blast

Memory Match: A Classic Game With a Digital Twist

Memory match games come from old card games like “Pelmanism,” where players flip over cards and look for pairs that go together.

This basic yet efficient concept has been transformed into digital versions that are loved by millions of people worldwide, making it a go-to choice for casual gamers seeking a quick and enjoyable challenge.

Themes, Difficulty Levels, and Cognitive Benefits

Many websites now have themed memory games with different levels of difficulty and game types, giving players a chance to test their memorization skills in a whole new light. BrainGymmer and Memozor are just two of many platforms that feature themed versions of the popular platformer, with subjects ranging from animals and cuisine to education.

Additionally, by providing repetition and challenge, these platforms’ memory games assist users in strengthening their cognitive abilities and enhancing their attention and recall abilities.

Appeal to All Ages and Free-to-Play Accessibility

They continue to attract players of all ages and are particularly well-liked in the casual gaming sector. These games often don’t require any special hardware to play therefore, they’re free to play. The developers can make money via adverts or in-game purchases to add more features or levels.

Where Can You Acquire Memory Match Game Licenses?

• DoonDookStudio: Memory Match
• MarketJS: Memory Match And Win
• Famobi: Onet Connect Classic
• CodeCanyon: Memory Match, Memoria

 

UNO: A Family Debate Turned Global Sensation

Merle Robbins, an Ohio barber from the United States, came up with UNO in 1971 after a heated family argument about how to play the card game Crazy Eights. Players compete to see who can discard their entire hand of cards first in this relatively easy card game.

In UNO, players must call “UNO” when they have only one card left. “UNO” means “one” in Italian.

UNO’s Massive Success: A Best-Selling Card Game

Gamesver reports that UNO is one of the all-time best-selling card games, with over 150 million copies sold throughout the entire world.

Several reprints, digital versions, and themed editions have increased the game’s sales.

New Editions, Digital Platforms, and Iconic Collaborations

UNO has changed a lot over the years. There are now many themed editions and digital versions of the game, such as UNO Flip, UNO Attack, and partnerships with Minecraft and Super Mario.

The game is also accessible on mobile and online platforms.

Where Can You Acquire UNO Game Licenses?

• DoonDookStudio: OCHO
• Famobi: Duo Card
• CodeCanyon: Four Colors
• FreakXGames: ONU Live

Sliding Puzzle: The Classic Game of Rearrangement

First developed by Noyes Chapman in 1880, the sliding puzzle is most commonly referred to as the “15 Puzzle.”

The original version had a 4×4 grid with 15 numbered tiles and one empty spot. The goal was to put the tiles back in the right order.

The puzzle became an instant hit and went viral all across the world. However, in modern variants, especially digital ones, the gameplay has been updated a little.

Enduring Appeal: A Timeless Puzzle

Sliding puzzles are still popular because they are fun for both kids and adults, even though the 1880s craze that started them has died down. Digital versions often make money through ads or in-app sales, which is a steady source of income.

Though not as commercially successful as some other evergreen games, they remain a niche favorite with a devoted following.

These days, you may play digital versions of the classic sliding puzzle on your computer, phone, or tablet.

Why Does Sliding Puzzle Continue to Captivate Players?

The accessibility of the sliding puzzle and the harmony it achieves between simplicity and complexity are the reasons for its ongoing popularity.

It tests the player’s critical thinking skills without having the same demanding learning curve as more challenging games.

Where Can You Acquire Sliding Puzzle Game Licenses?

• DoonDookStudio: Happy Connect, Slide
• MarketJS: Puzzle Slide Tours, Candy Slide
• CodeCanyon: Animals Slide Blocks

Pac-Man: A History-changing Game That Shaped Arcade

Toru Iwatani set out to make the original Pac-Man, which Namco released in 1980, a game that would appeal to female audiences by avoiding the violent themes common in arcade games of the time.

The objective of the game is for Pac-Man to make his way through a maze while avoiding ghosts and eating pellets.

The term “Pac-Man” is derived from the Japanese slang term “paku-paku,” which imitates the sound of someone chewing.

The Monumental Impact of Pac-Man

Pac-Man has had a massive impact, making billions of dollars from various adaptations, products, and spin-offs.

According to Britannica, in the United States alone, the arcade game sold more than 100,000 units, and its current versions continue to be supported by a large fan base.

From Classic to Modern Versions

Over the years, there have been several variations and spin-offs of Pac-Man, such as Pac-Man Geo, which transforms actual locations into Pac-Man mazes, and Pac-Man 99, a competitive battle royale game for the Nintendo Switch.

Enduring Appeal: Why Pac-Man Remains Relevant

The game has remained popular due to its easy-to-understand mechanics, bright visuals, and novel maze-chase concept, all of which combine to offer strategic gameplay that continues to charm players.

After more than four decades in the gaming industry and popular culture worldwide, Pac-Man’s impact is undeniable. Even today, we see web versions of the game on various online gaming portals.

Where Can You Acquire Pac-Man Game Licenses?

• CodeCanyon: Feed Monster, Pac-Rat
• MarketJS: Chomp Chase

 

Snake: A Legendary Arcade Classic

Famous for its 1976 origins in Blockade, the arcade classic Snake sprang to fame in the late ’90s when it was pre-installed on Nokia phones, especially the legendary Nokia 6110.

Snake, created by Taneli Armanto, is an easy-to-learn but incredibly fun game in which the player takes control of a snake and guides it to increase in size by eating food while avoiding obstacles like walls and, surprisingly, its own tail.

A Global Phenomenon: Snake on Nokia Phones

Over 400 million handsets had the Nokia Snake game installed, solidifying its position as a landmark in mobile gaming history. Its legendary position was solidified in 2013 when millions of people played the game straight from the Google search page.

Even in the modern day, players are still drawn to games like Slither.io, which has kept the brand popular all over the world.

The Evolution of Snake

There have been many updates to the Snake franchise in recent years. The massively multiplayer online version of Slither.io, which allowed users to control worms and compete with one another to grow larger, was a significant reboot.

The game’s popularity skyrocketed, and now millions of players all over the globe enjoy it.

Furthermore, Snake Rewind and Snake Pass expanded the conventional format by adding 3D gameplay and puzzle components.

Timeless Appeal

What makes Snake fun is how easy it is to play and how hard it is to beat. Because of its accessible concepts, short learning curve, and addicting gameplay, the game will always be a classic.

Another factor that has contributed to the game’s continued popularity among younger players is the inclusion of a competitive mode in more recent versions.

Where Can You Acquire Snake Game Licenses?

• CodeCanyon: Classic Snake, Zig Snake
• MarketJS: Snake King, Snake Challenge

Conclusion

Evergreen games occupy a unique position in the realm of entertainment, with their simplicity, accessibility, and enduring appeal ensuring their relevance across generations. They’re the bread and butter of gaming.

These games evolve with the times while retaining their valued qualities—whether it’s the strategic appeal of puzzle games like Ludo and Sudoku, the nostalgic charm of classics like Snake and Pac-Man, or the creative spark of games like Jigsaw Puzzles. 

They serve as a reminder that excellent gameplay is timeless and that the simplest pleasures in life can be the most enduring.

For online gaming portals or websites considering adding a gaming platform to their super app, these evergreen games are a must. 

Their constant presence will not only attract and retain your audience but also foster high engagement, ensuring a lasting connection with players, all while enjoying a safe investment as a business.