Hi everyone. I'm fairly new at playing games downloaded off the internet. I have a few from Big Fish & Best Buy/Oberon. Can anyone tell me what sites to avoid because of spyware or any other garbage that might come along with the games?

What are the better sites to use (besides Big Fish, of course).

I would avoid RealArcade because they track what you do when you're not at their site.

Read this thread for more info.

Calypso, most sites are simply "retail" outlets of main sites. There are really very few actual casual gaming download sites that do not connect to another one for download.

I recommend reading the EULA's before downloading.
You can read a bit about some issues HERE. and Here.

I personally don't download anywhere except from BigFish. My computer is worth more to me than playing a game.

If you need help with a specific site I'll be happy to help you interpret the Privacy agreement.

Ana

I download all of my games from Pogo.com. Great casual games site, no problems whatsoever.

Thanks Ana for providing the links to the other threads. The keyboard/mouse tracking for me is very disturbing.

Hopefully this is on-topic but I had downloaded a demo from Play First. It's since been uninstalled but are you aware of anything that might still be there from the installation?

I run CCleaner to check my machine of leftover items. If you do not have it, you can get it free at ccleaner.com. It's great.

I do not want to dissuade you from going to other sites, but would rather send you there with knowledge so you can make your own decision. I just believe that many computer issues arise from downloads from sites that install too much stuff on your computer without your knowledge or understanding what they do.

Ana

Thanks again Ana!

I think it's important for people using download sites to know what the companies are doing. Even though it's in their EULA, most people don't read them even though we know we should. I think the companies who do track user activity bank on the fact that users will not actually read the EULA.

The deciphered information you've giving on this site regarding this issue is invaluable for those of us who get headaches from reading legalese. It allows us to make an informed decision to support a company or not. Knowledge is power!

I really can't complain and have downloaded demos from many sites without problems. It is by choice I stay with BFG - they have a member plan that agrees with my wallet and sensibilities.

A couple of sites don't get along well with my anti-virus but I can't say that you would have a problem. Pardon the pun but it is "trial and error".

BFG cannot get any games from RealArcade and it is documented in a couple of threads here. It by my own choice that games from RealArcade, if I really want them, I wait for the CD version instead of the download, it is not because of any particular problems with RealArcade's site.

Linda

Other than BFG, Spintop is the only site I have used. I have downloaded demos from them with no problem. I do avoid RealArcade because of the software they want to install.

I signed up for the RealArcade free trial, because you get a free game and they have Tropix which BFG does not have. After several frustrating attempts to install the game, it finally did but, it has the added annoying factor of having to keep RealArcase installed and its game console has to be open to play the game. I signed up instead for BFG super deal ($6.99) and am very happy. I will be canceling RealArcade before the 30 days are up. I get to keep the game, but I may not since it's a real pain. I found Tropix on a site for $9.99 and and just purchase it!

Sorry Patricia, that the process has been a pain. I'm glad you found the game somewhere else though.

Well, of course I download all my games from CasualGameGuides, because, well, its my site We're a Big Fish affiliate, but you'll also find games from Reflexive and Trymedia, which you won't find at Big Fish. We also have a unique cast of characters who comment and write guides for the games. Definitely no spyware here. Also, every time registered users download a game, they are entered into a monthly drawing to win one free.