So-called "casual" games are all the rage, and with good reason: They're fun, easy to learn, usually non-violent, and perfect for those times when you have 5-10 minutes to burn. That's in contrast to your average first-person shooter, role-playing game (RPG), massively-multiplayer online game (MMO), or the like, which can consume entire weekends--and a good chunk of your paycheck.

One of the all-time great casual games is Plants Vs. Zombies, which normally sells for $20. However, from now until Monday, Feb. 13, you can get Plants Vs. Zombies (Win/Mac) for just $2. That's the best price I've ever seen for this game. If you don't already own it, I can't recommend it highly enough. And if you don't normally play games, here's your chance to find out what all the fuss is about.

The premise, I'll grant you, is weird. Zombies are invading your home, and the only way to stop them is through the power of gardening. Thus you have to plant a variety of annuals that can fight off the zombie hordes: pea-shooters, cherry bombs, jalapenos, and so on. There's a mix of action and strategy to it, as you have to plant while the zombies are slowly advancing on your house, and you have to balance your available funds to get the most plant bang for the buck.

The longer you survive, the tougher the attacks get--but the more funds you have at your disposal. Told you this was no--sorry--garden-variety game. Indeed, Plants Vs. Zombies is a bonbon, a quick and tasty gaming treat. It's an ideal little diversion when you need a work break or find yourself with a few spare minutes.

And for $2, it's arguably the best gaming deal on the planet.