I see you there, shadow. Following my every move. Writing a Weekend Download introduction as I do the same. Having cookies for breakfast just like I did. I've got my eye on you. And you've got your eye on me!
Me and My Shadow (Linux/Windows, 6MB, free) - A great open source platform puzzle game that makes heavy use of the ole "here's my double, watch us work together to solve puzzles" mechanic. Move through the world using standard platformer controls. When you encounter certain blocks or impassable obstacles, it's time to summon the shadow. Press the [spacebar] and start moving, creating a path your shadow will follow when you press [space] again. Over 80 levels to play, including a nice and steady tutorial, 18 block types to get used to, and a map editor for good measure. There's a lot to love in this minimalist game!
Cherry's Quest for Coffee (Windows, 8MB, free) - Finally, a quest we can all identify with (and a protagonist whose personality traits may or may not hit a little too close to home)! There's a worldwide coffee shortage (say it ain't so!), and Cherry Starma wakes to find she's all out of the good stuff. Time to go to the store! Will The Only Store have any left? Will that be the conclusion of the game?! Could it be that simple??!! A good, old fashioned, retro-styled, humor adventure game with simple point and click controls and some killer MIDI music.
Para Para Paranoid (Windows, 9MB, free) - Have you ever felt like someone was following you? Maybe more than one person? Like they were taking every step you made, jumping when you jumped, and pausing when you paused? If you were a bit paranoid, imagine how this poor guy feels! Para Para Paranoid is a puzzle platform game where your goal is to collect the nice little icons that appear on the screen. Grab them all, then touch the final one to move to the next stage. The enemies, however, follow your every move, meaning you've got to do things that ensure they stay out of your way as you go about your business. Frantic, and tons of fun, a great way to nurture the paranoid side of your personality!
Note: All games have been confirmed to run under Windows 7 and are virus-free. Mac users should try Boot Camp, Parallels, or CrossOver Games to play Windows titles, Linux users can use Wine. If you know of a great game we should feature, use the Submit link above to send it in!
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