Let's get some hints from Jason Kapalka of PopCap Games (creators of Bejeweled) and Dr. Carl Arinoldo, a New York psychologist.

Kapalka lists:

1. SFX - those "pings" and muted but thunderous explosions actually influence you to stay on in the game. Notice how the notes get higher as you progress? It makes you want to hear more of those rising pitch - sort of gratifying to hear as you blast away.

2. High Scores - no, not the 1,000 or 2,000 kind of scores - we're talking by the millions here. Kapalka says it's the pinball machine rule. You wouldn't be too proud saying your average score is 64, would you?

3. Low pressure game - they're either slow paced or they don't have time limit at all. PopCap games removed the distraction of unnecessary stress associated with high pressure environment. This works especially for games played by single players.

4. Big rewards - the visual rewards once a new level is reached tend to pat the player in the back. With Peggle, you get rainbows and fireworks and "Ode to Joy" is played - it's a big payoff for the player.

Dr. Arinoldo lists:

5. On-screen changes - the constantly evolving screen increases your engagement, said Dr. Arinoldo. These on-screen changes keeps your brain going, putting new groups of brain cells to work, and increases your concentration.

6. Cognitive benefits - Dr. Arinoldo said that besides the gratification one gets from these games, the player's stress levels go down and shows signs of increase in attention span. As it improves focus, it also assists with problem solving and decision making.

Let's get back to that deadline two hours ago... you're toast!   You procrastinated.

Procrastination and online casual games ... a very bad combination.