As the late March release date for Apple's new iPad multimedia device draws nearer, its potential to change the way casual gamers spend their play time continues to inspire curiosity. Those following Apple's announcements know that the iPad will support many or all current iPhone and iPod touch apps, while additionally providing new software. But which games will really capitalize on the more sizable screen? Could new multitouch operations find their way into games released specifically for the iPad? These questions and more will keep gamers guessing until the product arrives in stores, but consider these five games excellent potential time-killers once all-new titles begin rolling out on the platform.

5. Tetris

It may seem like a no-brainer, but this classic puzzle game could climb to new heights with the iPad's unique interface. The basics of rotating block configurations like pieces of a puzzle in order to keep a rectangular well from overflowing with bricks is a simple enough premise to translate onto most any electronic gaming device. Still, with an official app that supported multiplayer, gamers could get a better look at their competition with duel displays. Better yet, an iPad placed on a tabletop could be shared for head-to-head matches between friends. However Tetris and its ilk manifest on the iPad, sharing could add a brand new dimension to an old favorite.

4. Star Defense

What's better than a tower defense game? A tower defense game on a bigger screen. Title's like Tap Defense play well on the iPhone and iPod Touch, but tower defense games with higher-end graphics and more complex gameplay will shine that much brighter on the iPad's larger screen, giving the edge to the beefier Star Defense. Provided the title saw an iPad adaptation, players would not only have the chance to expand their gameplay thanks to more surface area, but could also immerse themselves in the action unfolding onscreen. More motivating closer attention to in-game animations. After all, developers want players to admire their handiwork. Bigger screens can only foster higher attention to detail.

3. Monopoly

Early iPad rumors indicated that the device had the potential to be shared among a group of users such as families, co-workers and friends. And what better way to strengthen the bonds therein than with a little board game competition? Measuring in at 9.7", the iPad screen doesn't completely take the place of Hasbro's hearty game of real estate, but it comes close enough that a roundtable of players could contribute their turns without much passing of the 'pad, so-to-speak. With the iPhone's version of Monopoly currently a top-selling iTunes app, it's not difficult to imagine that an even more capable substitute for the physical game could receive a warm welcome from casual gamers. As long as they're willing to remain calm in the face of inevitable board game arguments, that is.

2. Plants vs. Zombies

Just as Star Defense could see serious improvements in appearance and gameplay, the iPhone port of Pop Cap's Plants vs. Zombies has plentiful potential on the bigger, badder iPad. Landscaping a yard full of zombie-repelling plants can be a chore, meaning the less eyestrain, the better. Casual gamers introduced to the title via PC or Mac might also rediscover the title with the added incentive of figuratively getting their hands dirty by "planting" undead deterrents with a push of their iPad screen rather than the click of a mouse. Less clicking could equal fewer distractions, which is a good thing when the reanimated attempt to invade one's home.

1. Super Monkey Ball Series

The poster child for video game tilt-tech, Sega's Super Monkey Ball franchise has given casual gamers the opportunity to test the true limits of their iPhone and iPod Touch's signature rotating screens. With the introduction of the iPad, casual gamers could have an even more immersive experience to look forward to. Apple's latest gizmo could make guiding monkey protagonist AiAi through colorful obstacle courses more engaging by giving players a wider viewing area. With a better scope of their surroundings, it's reasonable to expect and more challenging and longer levels, resulting in more valuable gameplay. With a resolution comparable to most computer screens, Super Monkey Ball on the iPad could become much more comparable, or even equal to its Wii version in terms of presentation. Better graphics, bigger screen, unique gameplay - Monkey Ballers may have a new favorite console on their hands.