There was a time when flash games were limited to simple point and click fests that were made to moreso pass the time than actually be enjoyable.  To keep data transfers to a minimum, early flash programmers used graphics that were simplified and were strickly suited for a time when most Internet users were forced to use telephones as their way to the Net.  From these humble beginnings a whole slew of fully realized experiences have been spawned all over the Internet.  No longer are programmers limited to simple interactivity or early Nintendo NES era graphics but are able to fully realize their ideas within a medium that can be limiting but has a breadth that allows for creavitivity.  As proof of this look at the former flash games that can be found on Xbox Live Arcade, the Playstation Store, and Wii Ware.

One Stop Shop

By no means am I saying that all the games out there are works of gaming genius ready for primetime, and in fact many are  a downright chore to play through.  But that’s why there’s sites like Kongregate.com that take the guest work out of finding the creme de la creme of flash games.  One of the biggest draws that Kongregate has is the fact that it has a community that’s a couple thousand strong and growing with just as many games in it’s library to peruse through.  It is free to join the community with the option of “tipping” those developers you feel deserve some monetary reward for their efforts.

Kommunity Focused

I specifically said community because that’s what Kong really is.  It is a community of gamers that enjoy playing games and the site is specifically made to cater to this.  Game developers playing alongside the players each shooting ideas off of each other to one simple end, making better games.  Alongside every game window there’s also a chat window that can be game specific or one that you become a regular in.  I believe all this interactivity allows for a real community to be formed rather than the chaos that can be found in any online console multiplayer lobby. There’s also a level system that has you earning poitns for commenting, rating, playing, and completing challenges within games.  This may seem like a gimmick but it also has the benefit of incentivizing being a part of the kong kommunity which can only enrich the experience for everyone else.

Kreativity Galore

Kongregate has games for just about every taste with a catalogue that expands on a daily basis.  You’ll find everything from shooters, to side scrolling action games, to puzzle games, and even a couple RTS games.  Just as long as you’re not expecting mind blowing graphics: you’ll be treated to a pleasant experience each and every time you spend some time within Kongregate’s walls.  Also, if you’re interested there’s lessons on how to start making your own flash games located right on the spot.  Also monthly sweepstakes for prized as well as a monthly contest awarding the time new games uploaded for the month.  Do I really have to keep typing or are you finally checking out Kongregate for yourself’?

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The Maw

Visuals out of

Lilo and Stich with just as

much fun to be had.

When I first fired up Twisted Pixel’s The Maw I was shocked by how cute this game looked and the fact that it was a really good looking game.  There are many stylized games on Xbox Live Marketplace that look gorgeous but The Maw is one of the first that look on par to late Last Gen graphical quality.  From the taste I got in the demo I would have to say that if the humor and quirkiness found there is held throughout the game it looks to be a fun action platformer that is easy to pickup and play.