When the Java application was introduced in 1995, the doors opened for people to play games online like they had not been able to before the new technology debuted. Fourteen years later, players can play thousands of online java games, most for free. In fact, some of the free sites allow players to win prizes and cash.

The online gaming community is growing faster than many social networks. And while these sites are less publicized, they are more popular than the dating sites that are advertised heavily. Many people have started romances with people they have met playing online java games. Others have made lifelong friends in the chat rooms.

Online java games received a boost when major game manufacturers began to see the value in allowing their games to be played on these sites. Some of the popular games available are:

• Yahtzee: This five dice game by Parker Brothers is a favorite of families around the world. One of the attractions of the game is that you can play with many people or alone. This online java game is one of the most popular.
• Scrabble: This is the world’s favorite word game. On the leading gaming sites, you can play against others or against the computer. One of the best sites is www.pogo.com .
• Monopoly: Another popular board game that has become one of the most popular online java games. Monopoly is available on several gaming sites. Hasbro, www.hasbro.com, has an abbreviated version of the game that pits competitors against the computer. You can also find Monopoly at www.pogo.com.

Online games allow players to take a step back in time and play their favorite arcade games. Here are some of the most popular titles:

• Asteroids was one of the first games to capture the imagination in the 80s. If you played it in the game room at your local mall as a child or teenager, you can relive that experience in the privacy of your own home (or office, if you dare!).
• Who can forget the thrill of winding around the maze in hopes of avoiding the monsters and eating enough “dots” and fruit to get the high score? Now you can play Pac-Man and Ms. Pac Man online. The only difference is you will use the mouse instead of the joystick.
• Centipede is one of the hardest to find but most popular games from the 80’s. Like Galaga, which is also available online, you shoot at oncoming and passing targets.

Online java games opened up a new world to poker players. Thousands of people sit down at their computer almost every night to square off against players from around the world. In recent years, poker has become a trendy game offline as well with many celebrities participating in television tournaments. The online gaming community attributes poker’s rise in popularity to the game’s online success.

There are two things you need to keep in mind when playing online games. Some sites require you to download flash software if you don’t have it on your computer. Always use caution when downloading anything onto your computer, especially if you don’t have anti virus software. And playing online games can be addictive. Make sure you are not playing online games when you should be working or spending time with your family.