HTML5 games: the future is now

Cube Slam

On the top we’ve got a pretty nice title which is inspired by classic pong Cube Slam is a colorful arcade game, where you can play against lovely bear called Bob. Remember that Bob can become nervous especially when he loses (exactly like me…).

What is worth emphasizing, this browser game has also a multiplayer mode. After connecting a webcam, you will see your friend instead of Bob. It leaves us nothing more than challenge them and watch your friend getting frustrated because of constant defeats. Is there anything more satisfying? The game isn’t complicated but gives you a lot of fun. It’s a perfect time killer that you can use at home or… at work if you are brave enough.

Used technologies: WebGL, three.js, CSS3

HexGL

HexGL, the futuristic, HTML5 racing game is next on the list. It’s a little memorial to the classic games like Wipeout and F-Zero. It also reminds me the game Star Wars Episode 1: Racer (the racing of podracers from the Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace). Just like in the movie, you are controlling the very fast spaceship while playing HexGL. There are no contenders, you are fighting yourself. Your target: the best time after three laps. It is not that simple because your ship can be destroyed!

The game was created by one person, French WebGL developer. The nice thing about the game is the cross-platforming. It’s available not only on PC’s but also on mobiles and tablets.

Used technologies: HTML5, JavaScript, WebGL

Missle Game

In this ranking we cannot forget about Missle Game created by Ben Mather. This game is very simple but, in the same time, incredibly absorbing. You have to overcome the obstacles accurately, exactly like in the TV show „Hole in the Wall”. Sounds easy? Perhaps, but nothing could be more wrong. Each element is moving around, there are also small and big objects you need to beat; all these factors don’t make easier your way to the finish line?

Very minimalistic, black-and-white graphic has an influence on game’s expressiveness and facilitate and help player to fall into the flow-state (known from the gamification). tutaj można sobie podlinkować do prezki Bartka).

Used technologies: JavaScript, SVG

Three titles mentioned above are very absorbing but not really advanced when it comes to technology. HTML5 and JavaScript can do more! Cross-platforming, high-speed prototyping and low entry barriers (the widespread availability and highly developed technology) are the main pros.

Game Dev Tycoon

Your goal in this made in 2013 game is to reconstruct the market of video games. You will start in 80’, run a small start-up business in your garage and your aim is to be a market leader. In the meantime, you will learn new strategies, hire and fire the employees, and lead your company through the game business.

This economic strategy which takes place in real time is available on Steam and makes the players able to show off their talents. The game is only for one player, but for sure he/she will have many hours of fun with it.

It’s available in different language versions, the technical requirements aren’t exorbitant, so it would be great for Sims or RollerCoaster Tycoon fans.

Used technologies: HTML, JavaScript, CSS

Kopanito All-Stars Soccer

These games are really great, but only one is close to my heart. I mean Kopanito All-Stars Soccer that is the latest production developed by guys from Merixgames.

Kopanito All-Stars Soccer is an arcade, 2D soccer/football game in development, inspired by Sensible Soccer, Kick Off and Nintendo World Cup. Scheduled to launch in Q3 of 2016.

It allows you to play football your way, slide tackle often and shoot using slow-motion with ultra-swerve. Playable with only 2 buttons! No referee, no off-sides, lots of national teams and local multi-player.

The game is still in development process, but it’s already available on the Steam platform. Right now developers are trying to implement the online multiplayer mode.

Key features of the game:

• 114 national teams from every corner of the world
• Local multiplayer mode up to 5 players (4 gamepads + keyboard), can be played in any configuration, e.g. 1 vs 1, 2 vs 2, 4 vs AI, etc.
• 16 championships to complete in the single-player mode (local co-op possible too)
• Possibility to create your own tournament
• Goal replays and GIF generator
• 4 AI difficulty levels, from beginner (for kids and learning) to legendary
• Practice mode - test yourself against the goalkeeper
• 7 colorful stadiums + training pitch
• 5 diversifying gameplay super-moves at start (windmaker, super shot, magnet, teleport and freeze)
• Leaderboards based on a single-player skill and progress in competitions
• Lots of achievements
• Full controller support
• Steam Trading Cards

Used technologies: HTML, JavaScript, CSS, nw.js

The above list shows that HTML5-based games are developing very quickly. Cross-platforming, high-speed prototyping (time is money!) and the browsers supporting that surely will grow are the main reason for the following games created in the HTML5 technology.