Flash Games Flavor

Sorry for the wait everyone.


Today`s blog shall be about flash-games that suit the theme of this blog. I would not consider any of these games horror, aside from the implications of two, but they definitely have a dark lining around them. All of these games share a unique aesthetic, some flashy and others simplistic. The truly notable connection these games share is not only the darkness but the emphasis on story and motivation. If you are expecting a shooter or something action packed I would suggest pass on these games.



1. Looming. http://www.newgrounds.com/portal/view/541333

   I really enjoy Looming, it is a game wholly based on discovery.  The landscape is barren and unusual, set all in gray-scale.  You take the role of an anthropologist and research this forgotten land called Looming.  The aspect I enjoyed the most about this game is that when I was roaming the land it never felt like I came upon the ancient cultures or an abandoned civilization, no, it always felt like I was in a cemetery, which in instances it truly is.

   The atmosphere and discovery is what fuels this game.  The creators efforts to create this land, as well as the history of it and its conflicting inhabitants shines.  A highly refreshing game that acts itself out in a haunting yet fascinating method.


2. Loved. http://www.kongregate.com/games/AlexanderOcias/loved

   Loved is a game that challenges you, both in terms of game-play and thought.  The graphics are very simple and the objectives run the line between easy and moderate at best.  You play an "object", as the narrator may imply, that is to do as its commands.  Your task is to either comply or disobey as your navigate a platform based game.  The world changes with choice and the narrator is always with you.

   I want to say more and what I believe are the intentions but that would ruin the experience.  This game is very short yet poignant, worth digesting.  Do as I say and play this game.  Trust me, I only want what is best for you.

3. Coma. http://www.newgrounds.com/portal/view/541124

  Coma may be one of the most well illustrated games to be ever be made.  In art direction alone, it is commendable.  Basically a collection and puzzle game, you play the protagonist and make your way collecting items and traversing this eclectic land.  Coma itself is highly suggestive and at no time gives you a straight answer, even at its end, you get a lot of pieces and put them together in forms of dialog, landscape, and color.

   Another short but sweet work.  The efforts of the creators deserves accolades for creating such a rich, well illustrated, and cryptic work that is not over-the-top abstract or surreal.  Even if you do not understand all the events and areas you feel them from the setting and colors.


4. Don`t Look Back. http://www.kongregate.com/games/TerryCavanagh/dont-look-back

  Any of you college students or fans of mythology may instantly realize the basis of this game right from the start.  Your role begins as a pixelated figure lamenting over a tombstone.  You turn away and begin your story.  At some point, which I am willingly keeping secret, the game changes as far as mechanics, you will know when.

   Another monotone game that is both short and easy.  The game has a core idea that is identifiable without any words while at the same time it has successfully disguised as a platformer with all the required jumping and shooting.  As simple as it looks it does pull you in, and the ending really leaves you bittersweet.


5.  The Dream Machine. http://www.thedreammachine.se/

  I saved the best for last.  The Dream Machine is an "in works" game that is not yet complete.  You can go to the main site and sign up for free to play the longest demo available at this time.  Sign up is well worth the effort because once you get into it you realize there is a creative story with an attention to detail and atmosphere.   You begin the game in a dream that seems a bit too coincidental, yet rational.  You wake up and the story flows.

    The Dream Machine is a beautiful point-click-collect-use game all done in the style of claymation.  The visual style itself is a seeming fusion of The Brother`s Quay meets Grim Fandango put best.  My hats-off the artists of this game for the work they put in all the unique sets, fluid motion, and grotesque characters, it it impressive to say the least.  The story is shaping up great from what the demo mention, and as I mentioned, this is one of the two actual games that have shades of horror.  At this point, I am glad the game only has a demo out, it seems episodic and in turn very suitable.  Play it!  By the end you should be very disturbed.  Highly recommended.


Take care guys.