Casual Encounters--22 Flash Games Worth Getting Addicted To
When you don't have the time or resources to commit to a full-fledged FPS, strategy game, or RPG adventure, a fun, fast, browser-based game is sure to satisfy. We reveal our favorites—both current and classic
Five minutes here, a lunch break there, the urge to procrastinate. The free browser-based Flash game has evolved with the technology, producing some high-quality time-killers that can interrupt the most productive of days. With volume comes choices. But you don’t want to waste time browsing—you need the definitive go-to guide to the best of what’s out there. We did the leg (hand and mouse) work for you. Many sites collect hundreds of these free games—check out Kongregate.com, Armorgames.com, Gamebrew.com, as examples—but scan our list and you’ll be on the road to fun, free entertainment in no time. Plus, for a hint of nostalgia, or to get your feet wet with casual gaming, spend some quality time with classics of the genre, collected in our list of all-time favorites.
Dark Base III
Alien slaughter-fest
This top-down shooter franchise has been successful enough to spawn sequels, which says plenty about its quality. RPG-style level-up mechanics let you improve your abilities and arsenal, which is vital given the rampaging indigenous life forms intent on eating you and your hired-mercenary help. Mission progression lets you take on optional tasks that flesh out the story and provide further opportunities to earn experience and level up. (http://www.crazymonkeygames.com/Darkbase-3.html)
Wake Up the Box
Fun with physics
What else are you going to do when you find a box napping on a ledge? Prod him awake using the weight and shape of various pieces of wood in a physics-based puzzle, naturally. Mixing spatial challenges, occasional speed tests, and creative thinking, each of the 20 levels provides a unique test. If you get stuck, watch the handy video walkthrough of the optimal solutions. (http://armorgames.com/play/4839/wake-up-the-box)
Kongai
Whip 'em good
This collectible card game is blended with Street Fighter-like beat-’em-up mechanics and painted with a classic high-fantasy cartoon-art style (i.e., uber-buff dudes and improbably proportioned ladies). You start with three cards, which you’re likely to pick for the artwork since the mechanics take some learning. After a few practice bouts, you earn new cards and compete in ranked matches against other folks. Very, very compelling for Magic: The Gathering types who want a free option. (http://www.kongregate.com/games/Kongregate/kongai)
Flakboy
Happy to be the gun, spike, mine test subject
Figuring out the most effective method of delivering extreme damage to poor Flakboy proves incredibly engaging. Poor guy is scared of a yellow duck, which sets him in motion within a confined room outfitted by whatever spikes, mines, guns, and trampolines your cash allotment affords you to buy. The eight levels each require you to inflict more damage, which forces you to try new weapons as they unlock. Then set the duck loose and watch Flakboy smear the walls with his own blood! (http://www.a10.com/game/flakboy.html)