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We’ve seen a lot of great ‘AAA’ titles released by the usual big name publishers this year. But we don’t think games need huge budgets to be fun. That’s why we put this list together. In it, you’ll find links to download or play some of our favorite free games from independent developers and smaller studios that have been released over the years. They may not smell like money the way a grandiose blockbuster like Grand Theft Auto IV does, with its expensive licensed music and state-of-the-art everything. But they’re all loads of fun – and in the end, that’s what really matters.
Whether you’re looking to sink your teeth into an awesome RPG that’s full of retro goodness or just want to kill five minutes of free time with an addictive Flash game, you’re sure to find something worth playing on this list during your spare time this holiday.
The Fancy Pants Adventure: World 1
Play it now
We suggest you keep an eye on the fancy Flash game designer, Brad Borne. His Fancy Pants Adventure series continues to draw in crowds on sites like Newgrounds and Armor Games with its fluid animation, fun platforming levels, and the fanciest pants ever worn by a stickman.
Borne spent years of drawing flipbooks and experimenting with 2D platforming engines, which helps explain Fancy Pants’ unique look.
Above: We love the way Mister Fancy Pants moves. It reminds us of a Don Hertzfeldt cartoon
The Fancy Pants Adventure: World 2
Play it in 720 x 480
The pants don’t get any fancier, but World 2 features more complex levels and goodies for serious Fancy Pants fans.
Mirror’s Edge 2D Beta
Play the beta
We told you to keep an eye on Brad Borne and now that you’ve scrolled this far down, you really have no choice. His latest project is the 2D version of Mirror’s Edge, which he’s working on with Electronic Arts. Follow the link above to see how Faith feels in 2D and check out his blog.
Above: We can’t wait to see what Borne does with the 2D version of Mirror’s Edge
Bonesaw
Download
Bonesaw is another excellent platformer that gets GamesRadar’s stamp of approval for unnecessary roughness, interference with work, and aggressive slashing with a giant over-sized hockey stick.
The retro side-scroller is loosely based on Clarkson University’s hockey team, The Golden Knights. It begins with an evil referee who banishes your entire team to an inter-dimensional penalty box for encouraging unruly fans.
Above: A trailer for Bonesaw
N puts you in control of a ninja in search of gold and enlightenment. Prepare to die frequently. N's ultra tough difficulty requires light-as-a-feather tapping to make your way through each of the game's 100-plus levels. One wrong move and you'll see your little ninja man ricochet off of mines, take rockets to the face, and eat the floor in bone crunching falls.
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Don't let N's simplistic look turn you off. Once you see this 2D platformer in motion you'll have a tough time pushing the "Q" key to quit. With fluid animation and harried old school 2D action, N will have you mashing the spacebar over and over again for one more try.
N+ is a commercial version of the original freeware title and is available on XBLA, the PSP, and the DS.
