Home of Retro PC Gaming
Currently hosting 99 freeware games!
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Home of Retro PC Gaming Currently hosting 99 freeware games! |
| Abuse 1995 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 9 | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Crack dot Com | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Crack dot Com | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: VGA 640×400×256c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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One of the most innovative platform games ever, Abuse is a cult classic. Players move using the arrow keys on their keyboard, but aim their weapons using the mouse. This allows the hero to fire in 360°, even while running in the opposite direction. The story changed between versions, though the rest of the game is largely unchanged. In v1.05, the game takes place in 2021, and Nick Vrenna is a Unified Underground agent fighting against the Ants. In v2.0, Nick Vrenna is wrongly incarcerated in the year 2009. Genetic experiments that isolated the aggression gene, called Abuse, have caused everyone in the prison to transform into hideous monsters. Using battle armor, Nick must prevent the Abuse-infected water supply from contaminating the outside world. The graphics are dark and almost photo-realistic, and the sound effects and music are terrifying. Monsters scream as they ambush, and the entire game has the feel of a science fiction horror movie. There are a variety of weapons, and various switches, doors and elevators, breakable walls, hidden areas, and teleports are arranged as puzzles that must be solved in order to advance. The commercial version has 17 levels, 12 network-only levels, and more weapons, enemies, sound effects and artwork. Abuse v2.0 Shareware Episode (3055k) Play online Crack dot Com has generously released this game as freeware.
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| Adventure Fun-Pak 1989 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Adventure | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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A collection of very simple, often frustrating games. Rogue Runner is an ASCII adventure with similarities to Kroz, except that most of the maze is invisible and the souls of previous adventurers home in on you. The Thing is a very simple text adventure based on the old Wumpus game. These are some of Scott Miller's earliest games. There are 4 games in the Adventure Fun-Pak: Rogue Runner Complete version history:Adventure Fun-Pak v1.0 Freeware Episodes (298k) Play onlineApogee generously released Adventure Fun-Pak and Puzzle Fun-Pak as freeware under the Adventure & Puzzle Fun Packs Freeware License in May 2004. They are both in the same zip file.
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| Adventures of Maddog Williams in the Dungeons of Duridian, The 1992 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Adventure | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Game Crafters | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Game Crafters | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: EGA 320×200×16c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Maddog Williams is essentially a text adventure with VGA graphics. Detailed descriptions of rooms and objects can still be obtained by asking for them, but you can already see what's in the room and get a hint as to what items might be worth examining. Unlike a text adventure, Maddog must be moved around using the arrow keys so that he can interact with objects and move from screen to screen. Kind of like a point-and-click adventure, without the mouse support. He can also fight in real time, advancing, retreating, and swinging his sword, rather than the turn-based fighting in a text adventure. Like most adventures, points are scored for collecting objects and meeting objectives, and your goal is to complete the story. In this case, your goal is to drive the evil out of Duridian so that people can live in peace. Quite an interesting gaming experience. There are 8 chapters in this game, with only the first chapter playable in the shareware version. The Adventures of Maddog Williams in the Dungeons of Duridian Registered Version (2323k) Play online Game Crafters has generously released this game as freeware under the The Adventures of Maddog Williams Vol 1 Freeware License.
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| Adventures of Robbo 1993 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 6 | DOS Freeware (former commercial) | Puzzle | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by xLand Games | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Epic MegaGames | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Adventures of Robbo is a fun little puzzle game by the creators of Heartlight PC. You guide Robbo through levels in which push objects but not pull them, and he can shoot at enemies or blow up bombs when he has enough battery power. He must collect all bolts in every level without being destroyed or blocking his access to the bolts or the exit, so planning is very important. Along with Heartlight PC and Electro Man, this game was part of the Epic Puzzle Pack, and was the only game not to be released as a shareware version. The original, unreleased shareware version has been lost, but programmer Maciej Miasik has generously recompiled it from the original source code. The full version features more levels and voice.
Developer xLand generously released this game as freeware under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 2.5 license on 25 June 2006.
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| Alien Carnage 1993 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 7 | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Interactive Binary Illusions, SubZero Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: VGA 320×200×256c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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This game was originally called Halloween Harry, presumably because everyone on Earth has been turned into a zombie. Version 1.0 was an incomplete version that only appeared in a UK Magazine. Following version 1.2 version, the game was renamed Alien Carnage and the version number returned to 1.0. The only other difference is that Mission 3 became Mission 1, and vice versa. Despite this change, it is still legal to distribute the shareware version of Halloween Harry, so you can try out Mission 1 and 3 before you buy! You play Harry, and your goal is to defeat the aliens who are turning everyone into zombies, killing the zombies that get in your way. You get a number of weapons and a jetpack to fly around levels. Gameplay looks and feels a lot like Hocus Pocus. The graphics and animation are good (even sexy in places), and most of the soundtrack is awesome. There are 4 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Mission 1 - Sewers Complete version history:
John Passfield and Apogee generously released this game as freeware under the Alien Carnage Freeware License in May 2007.
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| Alien Force 1990 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | Win16 Freeware (always) | Shooter | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Robert Epps | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Robert Epps | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Screenshot | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Alien Force is a space shooter for Windows 3.0, and one of the first Windows games I ever played. Gameplay takes place in a 10×10 grid, and each level pits your ship against 10 alien ships. Both you and each alien ship can only have one shot on the screen at a time, so a missed shot can leave you defenseless. At first the game is slow and the aliens are dumb, and they don't even shoot in Level 1. By Level 2 some of them start shooting back, and by Level 8 some of them can take two hits. Each kill is worth 100 points, and the level bonus is 500 times the level number. Your score ticks down 10 points at a time when you take too long to complete a level. To customize the level of challenge, you can start at any level you like. Alien Force v1.0 Freeware (16k)
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| Arctic Adventure 1991 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Micro F/X Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Apogee Software, Micro F/X Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: CGA 320×200×4c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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The sequel to Pharaoh's Tomb, this Nevada Smith adventure takes place 6 months later. This time you're searching for Viking treasure in the arctic. Gameplay is virtually identical to Pharaoh's Tomb. This time Nevada has infinite lives, which is good because the levels are much harder. There are 20 levels in each episode, but you have some flexibility in which order you complete the levels because this game adds a map screen. Version 1.0 was published by Micro F/X Software, before George Broussard merged his operations with Scott Miller's Apogee Software. Version 2.0 was published by Apogee. There are 4 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Complete version history:
Apogee generously released this game as freeware under the Arctic Adventure Freeware License on 20 March 2009.
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| Beneath a Steel Sky 1994 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former commercial) | Adventure | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Revolution Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Revolution Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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A point-and-click adventure set in a dystopian future with a hero whose life has obvious parallels to John from Brave New World. As Robert Foster, you are the son of citizens of the city, but you have been raised by a tribe that lives in the wilderness. Security agents kidnap you and return you to the city, but you manage to escape following a helicopter crash. With only your faithful sidekick, a robot named Joey, you must escape the city and find out why you were brought here. The graphics and sound are quite good in this immersive world, and interaction with the people who live in it is ingenious and full of witty dialog. It takes a lot of thinking to solve some of the puzzles. The CD-ROM version of the game replaces the text with voice and adds cut scenes that are drawn like comic books. Beneath a Steel Sky CD Version (67874k) Revolution Software generously released this game as freeware under the Beneath a Steel Sky Freeware License.
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| Beyond the Titanic 1986 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Adventure | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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A text adventure that takes place during the maiden voyage of the Titanic. The player's goal is to survive the disaster and return to San Francisco. All shareware versions of Beyond the Titanic that I've found have the same executable file, but an early version contains a text file requesting a donation of $5 to register the game, while a later version requests $5 or $10 and mentions Supernova and Kingdom of Kroz. An early version of Kingdom of Kroz was also included with the later version. Complete version history:
Apogee generously released this game as freware under the Beyond the Titanic Freeware License in March 1998.
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| Bio Menace 1993 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 8 | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: EGA 320×200×16c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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An odd little platform game in which a mutant army created by Dr. Mangle has invaded Metro City. As Snake Logan, a CIA agent, you have to shoot everything that moves and rescue the citizens. Graphics and sound aren't great, but the irreverent dialog is humorous. There are 3 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Episode 1 - Dr. Mangle's Lab Complete version history:
Apogee generously released this game as freeware under the Bio Menace Freeware License in December 2005.
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| Boppin' 1994 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 7 | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Puzzle | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Accursed Toys | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: VGA 320×200×256c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Boppin' is an original puzzle game which takes place in a pocket universe created by an arcade machine. The villains from other games have been captured by a hero named Hunnybunz, putting all of the heroes out of work. Your job is to free the villains and defeat the good Hunnybunz. You clear levels by moving one of the "heroes", Yeet and Boik, and having him throw a block at one or more connected matching blocks, which destroys the entire set. If the block hits a group of blocks so that it creates a square or cross, a monster is released, earning bonus points. Each character has a "miss counter" which is reduced every time you miss a shot. If the game gives you a piece that you can't use at the moment, you can discard it at a cost of 20 points. If you don't have 20 points, it costs you a miss. Your character commits suicide if he runs out of misses, which can be censored in version 1.0 and is censored by default in 1.1. The game claims to be only for adults but, other than the suicide animations, it's fun for all ages. Each episode has 40 levels, for a total of 160 episodes (the final episode is for custom levels). There are 5 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Episode 1 - Bothersome Hunnybunz! Complete version history:
Developer Accursed Toys has generously released this game as freeware. Boppin' v2.03, a Win32 port of the game, is available as a free download at the official home of Boppin'.
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| Castle of the Winds 1992 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 10 | Win16 Freeware (former shareware) | RPG | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by SaadaSoft | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Epic MegaGames | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Screenshot | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Castle of the Winds is a cult classic RPG for Windows. At the beginning of the game, you have ability points that you can distribute between three characteristics, and you can choose your hero's gender. The storyline is linear and the gameplay and inventory system are cunningly simple. In contrast to the cities, the dungeons are almost monochrome, and the graphics throughout the game are minimalist. It may not look like much, but something about it makes it surprisingly fun. There are two volumes in this game, with only the first volume playable in the shareware version. Part 1: A Question of Vengeance Castle of the Winds v1.1A Registered Version (679k) Author Rick Saada has generously released this game as freeware.
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| Caves of Thor 1989 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Adventure | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Often referred to as the "Thor Trilogy", Caves of Thor is an ASCII graphics adventure game that is a bit more like ZZT than Kroz. You play Thor, trapped in the Caves of Thor, and you must find three magical objects in order to escape. There are 3 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Episode 1 - Caves of Thor Caves of Thor v1.1 Registered Version (155k) Play online Apogee generously released this game as freeware under the Caves of Thor Freeware License in December 2005.
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| Cheezi 1993 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | Win16 Freeware (always) | Traditional | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Paul T. Dawson | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Paul T. Dawson | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Screenshot | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Cheezi is based on the ancient game of Pachisi, but it's basically played on a Parchisi board using the simplified rules of Trouble. The game is played on the familiar 72 square cross-shaped board from Parchisi, but without the 12 safe squares, and only one die is used. Each player has four pawns that begin in the "nest", and can only be entered onto the board if the player rolls a 6. The player can elect to move a piece that is already on the board or enter a new pawn, and then rolls again. Players can choose to pass on any roll if playing the roll might leave their pawn in a vulnerable position. Only one pawn can occupy each square. If a pawn lands on an enemy pawn, the captured pawn returns to the nest. The object of the game is get all four pawns around the board and into the safety zone, at which point they can bear off with an exact roll only. Options include allowing pawns to enter the board on any roll, and playing until all players finish or only until one player wins. The computer players can be customized by choosing how they evaluate nine situations, such as how high a priority they place on chasing or evading enemy pawns, and how willing they are to move in front of enemy pawns.
This game was originally released under a freeware license.
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| Chinese Checkers 1991 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Traditional | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by ImagiSOFT | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by ImagiSOFT | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: EGA 640×350×16c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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As you might expect, this is a game of Chinese checkers for two to six human or computer players. EGA graphics get the job done. The music plays for a few seconds every once in a while, which can be annoying, so you'll probably want to turn the music off. Otherwise, the game is excellent. The computer's difficulty level can't be adjusted, which is unfortunate, but you can set all of the players to be computers in order to watch and learn. The full version is now freeware, but it can't be distributed without permission, so you'll need to go to ImagiSOFT's website to download it.
ImagiSOFT has generously released this game as freeware, which can be downloaded from their website.
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| Chopper Commando 1990 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 9 | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Simulation | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Mark Currie | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Mark Currie | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: CGA 320×200×4c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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An old favorite of mine. This simple chopper game has a number of missions, sarcastic dialog, and beautiful 4-color graphics. Man that takes me back. Using your helicopter's bullets, missiles, bombs and nukes, destroy other helicopters, transport planes, missiles, some weird looking tanks, and any buildings that you're not fond of. Even when you're walking around outside of your chopper you can still throw grenades. The documentation with v2.0 mentioned that for $5, the author would send you the source code for v2.5 which added new missions to a new "Very Hard" category, but was never distributed compiled and was not to be mass distributed or uploaded to BBS. He was kind enough to send me a compiled copy that includes the source code, and this may be the only site that has it. Complete version history:Chopper Commando v2.56 and source code in Borland Turbo Pascal 5 (154k) Play onlineChopper Commando v2.0 (61k) Chopper Commando v1.0 (Still searching) Author Mark Currie has generously released this game as freeware.
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| Clyde's Adventure 1992 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 8.3 | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Moonlite Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Moonlite Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Clyde's Adventure is one of those games that you either love or hate. It's a platformer by the developer of Hocus Pocus, which means that the goal is exploration and puzzle solving. Clyde is searching for treasure and must find every single gem in every level, but he uses energy when he walks, jumps, or falls from a great height. He has a wand that can temporarily remove some bricks and light bombs that can permanently destroy others. There are no enemies, so the challenge comes from avoiding traps and explosions, triggering invisible platforms and teleports, and finding the most efficient route before Clyde runs out of energy. There are helpful, and often humorous messages to help you along the way. It takes many attempts to master each level. This game can be extremely frustrating, but it's also very rewarding when you finally win. The graphics are some of the most impressive ever featured in an EGA game, and each level is full of glowing, glittering or flashing platforms and backgrounds. Featuring parallax scrolling, there is a foreground, background, and a deep background outside the windows, and a sort of fake fourth layer where birds can be seen disappearing behind the clouds. The gems are often arranged so that the sound effects play music as you collect them. A very clever game for very clever people. There are 2 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Episode 1 - Lost Treasure of Tahookaboo Clyde's Adventure v3.0 Registered Version (289k) Play online Moonlite Software has generously released this game as freeware.
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| Clyde's Revenge 1995 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 9.3 | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Moonlite Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Moonlite Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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The sequel to Clyde's Adventure, featuring VGA graphics and enhanced sound. This time there are four difficulty levels. There is a pure exploration difficulty level for kids that makes Clyde invincible and health irrelevant. In the other three difficulty levels, Clyde still takes damage from traps and falling from a great height, but he no longer loses health as he walks or jumps, eliminating the need to plan the entire level in advance and play as efficiently as possible. This makes the game much less frustrating while maintaining most of the challenge. Gold and silver keys are added to the game, as well as magnets and other types of terrain. There are 4 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Clyde's Revenge v1.5 Registered Version (2392k) Moonlite Software has generously released this game as freeware.
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| Color Wizard, The 1994 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Educational | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by ImagiSOFT | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by ImagiSOFT | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: VGA 320×200×256c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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At first glance, The Color Wizard appears to be just a coloring book for children. Actually, it's an advanced drawing program and tutorial. The Color Wizard makes it easy to apply shading, and uses dithering to simulate 700 colors. If you click on the Artist button, the artist teaches you drawing techniques, such as shading and the effect of light on objects, and reflections. The Book button gives information about the subject of the drawing, such as dinosaurs and sharks. It's educational and fun. There are 40 pictures in this game, with only 8 available in the shareware version. The full version is now freeware, but it can't be distributed without permission, so you'll need to go to ImagiSOFT's website to download it.
ImagiSOFT has generously released this game as freeware, which can be downloaded from their website.
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| Command & Conquer 1995 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 8 | DOS Freeware (former commercial) | Strategy | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Westwood Studios (Virgin Interactive) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Virgin Interactive | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: VGA 320×200×256c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Command & Conquer is the first game in one of the most popular real-time strategy series of all time. Two factions, the Global Defense Initiative and the Brotherhood of Nod, fight to control an extraterrestrial element called Tiberium. You choose one side to command, build factories to process Tiberium, and build vehicles and weapons to destroy the enemy. The levels are imaginatively designed, and there is a great variety of vehicles and attacks at your disposal. Developed by Westwood Studios, a Virgin Interactive company since 1992. There are only 3 levels in the shareware demo, all of them GDI levels. In order, they are levels 1, 10 and 6. Command & Conquer Shareware Demo v1.0a (9149k) Copyright holder Electronic Arts generously declared Command & Conquer Gold, a Windows 95 version of this game with a Windows XP patch, freeware on 31 August 2007.
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| Crazy Eights 1992 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Traditional | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Moonlite Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Moonlite Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: VGA 640×480×16c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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This is about as good a Crazy Eights game as you could expect from DOS. You can configure whether or not the "miss a turn", "pick up cards", and "change suits" rules are in effect and which cards trigger them, and what score wins the match. Only one player can play against the computer, who plays a decent game. There is no feature to organize the cards in your hand, though your cards do nicely overlap when you get too many of them. The shareware version includes a non-playable copy of Cribbage, which was free with the registered version of Crazy Eights. Both are now freeware, but I have only located the shareware version so far.
Moonlite Software has generously released this game as freeware.
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| Cybersphere 1996 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 6 | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Paddle | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Psycon Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Psycon Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Cybersphere is simply the best "ball and paddle" game I've ever played. It's like Arkanoid, but with better graphics, music, and sound. There are some new power-ups, as well as gems to collect for bonus points, and the gameplay is unusually fun. One of the power-ups temporarily places a guard rail at the bottom of the level. Each level has a different background and walls. Even the guard rail has many different appearances. Naturally, multi-ball is also available. There's very little empty space in the game, which seems to make it easier to keep the ball in play, eliminating the frustration factor common to most games of this genre. Angled corners and edges help to virtually eliminate the problem of hitting that one last block, which is the scourge of the genre. To keep it challenging, some levels have invisible blocks that only become visible after being hit. There are 5 sectors with various numbers of levels and 10 bonus stages in this game, with only one sector containing three levels and two bonus stages in the demo version.
Author Clay Hellman has generously released this game as freeware.
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| Cybersphere Plus 1997 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Paddle | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Psycon Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Psycon Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Cybersphere Plus is the sequel to Cybersphere, with all new levels and identical gameplay. The graphics, music, and level design remain excellent. There are 5 sectors with various numbers of levels and 10 bonus stages in this game, with only one sector containing three levels and two bonus stages in the demo version.
Author Clay Hellman has generously released this game as freeware.
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| Dark Ages 1991 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Scenario Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: EGA 320×200×16c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Dark Ages is an extremely primitive-looking platformer in which you play a prince who was kidnapped by an evil wizard and raised by a peasant who turned out to be a hero. Trained to use magic, you must save your kingdom from the dark ages by defeating the evil wizard, Garth, who has given the kingdom to undead creatures and rules with an iron fist. There are 3 volumes in this game, with only the first volume playable in the shareware version. Volume 1: Prince of Destiny Complete version history:
Apogee generously released this game as freeware under the Dark Ages Freeware License on 20 March 2009.
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| Drum Blaster 1991 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Simulation | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Larry Tipton | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Epic MegaGames, Larry Tipton | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: EGA 640×350×16c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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I had to decide if this is actually a game or if it's music software. I've decided that it's a game, because it's fun to play. Drum Blaster is a music and noise maker with quite a few options, as well as different animated musicians. Although there are no goals or challenges to overcome, this could be entertaining for younger players. Epic became the publisher for Drum Blaster version 3.0. The registered version has 4 add-on packs. Pack 1 - Cool Drums
Author Larry Tipton generously released this game as freeware under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported license on 7 October 2007.
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| Duel 2000 1991 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Simulation | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Damon Hastings | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Damon Hastings | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: VGA 640×480×16c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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A neat little star battle game from the days when you could write a game in computer class and have it distributed by BBS and shareware compilation CD-ROMs. The game can be played by two humans or against the computer. The premise is simple: two space ships try to destroy each other by firing bullets. A planet in the center of the screen has gravity which attracts both of the ships and their bullets. Many options can be configured, such as bouncing off of the planet instead of being destroyed if you crash into it, and changing the walls from wraparound to bouncy. Using the planet's gravity to arc a bullet towards your enemy on the other side, or getting bullets into orbit are interesting applications of the game's physics. Using thrusters and fire shots cause the engine to heat up, and it will become useless if it overheats. Three random power-ups can appear: the Cool Box cools your engine, the Hot Box heats up your opponent's engine, and The Happy Reaper sends Death to destroy your opponent. The author released a new version in 2006 with his new contact information hex-edited into the exit screen, declaring it freeware with no restrictions.
Author Damon Hastings generously released this game as freeware on 26 July 2006.
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| Dungeons of Grimlor 1993 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Adventure | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by RederWare (Tactical Neuronics) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by RederWare (Tactical Neuronics) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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A simple adventure game with a huge emphasis on exploration. Using nothing but a bow and arrow, you battle monsters and locate treasures and keys by navigating from screen to screen through obvious exists, locked doors and secret passages. Your ultimate goal is to defeat a dragon named Grimlor. Your character can take a lot of damage, and his health is restored every 10,000 points, so the real challenge is finding your way through the endless dungeons. John Reder originally published The Dungeons of Grimlor under the name RederWare. There are 3 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Episode 1 - The GEM of Souls Dungeons of Grimlor v1.1 Registered Version (897k)
Dungeons of Grimlor v1.1 Shareware Episode (262k) Tactical Neuronics generously released this game as freeware under The Dungeons of Grimlor Freeware License.
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| Dungeons of Grimlor 2: The Lich 1995 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Adventure | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by SumWare Software (Tactical Neuronics) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by SumWare Software (Tactical Neuronics) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Dungeons of Grimlor 2 is another huge dungeon maze, with better graphics, more monsters and terrain types than the original. In addition to doors that require keys, there are now doors that open with a switch, rivers that carry you away, and teleporters. This time you regain health by collecting healing potions as well as by collecting 10,000 points, which means there is a lot more action. The evil dragon Grimlor, slain in the first game, is feared to have survived in some form, perhaps as a creature both dead and alive, making him a "Lich". John Reder originally published The Dungeons of Grimlor under the name SumWare Software. There are 3 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Episode 1: Resurrection Dungeons of Grimlor 2: The Lich v1.0 Registered Version (1916k) Tactical Neuronics generously released this game as freeware under The Dungeons of Grimlor 2 Freeware License.
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| Electro Man 1994 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 10 | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by xLand Games | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Epic MegaGames, xLand Games | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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A very unusual platformer. Your play a cyborg named Jack, a human modified to look like Robocop in order to fight robots who killed your family. Your goal is to locate three computer chips in every level. Your gun only fires when you can find energy for it, and you have infinite lives, which is good because this is a very hard game. One of the difficult aspects of the game is the attempt at realistic physics. You can't change your direction in mid-air, meaning that you can't jump straight up and then push forward, you must be moving forward to jump forward. Once you've jumped, you can't push in the opposite direction to try to come down closer. Not being able to change direction in mid-air may be a difficult adaptation if you're used to console video games; inertia is a real consideration in this game. The graphics and sound are quite good, and there are voices. Originally published by CDV Software as electro BODY, the name was changed to Electro Man when published by Epic. There are 8 levels in this game, with only the fourth level playable in the shareware version. Electro Man Creative Commons Registered Version (887k) Play online Developer xLand generously released this game as freeware under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 2.5 license on 25 June 2006.
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| Gargoyle Medieval Pack 1995 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 4.5 | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Adventure | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Synaptic Entertainment | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Synaptic Entertainment | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: VGA 320×240×256c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Gargoyle Medieval Pack is a collection of three games in which elves battle gargoyles. In Gargoyle, gargoyles have taken over the castle, and the elves are trying to get to the throne room to retrieve their gold. The elves move a bucket of water and have to catch every fireball that the gargoyle drops in order to advance. Falling rocks temporarily shrink the size of the bucket by half, while falling rubies double the size of the bucket. This game gets pretty fast by the end. In Gargoyle Revenge, the gargoyles throw elves from three stories of the castle, while the elves below catch them with a trampoline and bounce them to a hay wagon. The elves land in each of three locations on the ground before reaching the wagon, and the height of each bounce depends on how high they were thrown from. The gargoyles eventually throw the elves in staggered waves from different heights, but timing the landings never becomes difficult. This game might be entertaining for children. Gargoyle Mania is, by far, the most ambitious game of the trilogy. Waves of gargoyles drop rocks on the elves, who use a cart to shoot them down with arrows. When the gargoyles are killed, they sometimes drop items which can be caught in baskets on either side of the cart (unless they've been destroyed by enemy attacks), such as potions which restore health, grant invincibility, or upgrade the buckets, as well bronze, silver and gold coins, which can be used to by weapon and shield upgrades between stages. There are double or triple arrows, smart bombs which kill everything on the screen, unbreakable metal buckets, and even magnets which pull money towards the buckets. Most gargoyles take several hits to kill, and there are huge bosses at the end of each stage. It's quite addictive. The registered version adds additional levels to all three games, and additional weapons to Gargoyle Mania. Gargoyle Medieval Pack v1.4 Registered Version (1380k) Play online Author Jeff Souders generously released this game as freeware on 2 August 2008.
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| General Budda's Labyrinth 1993 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Adventure | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by RederWare (Tactical Neuronics) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by RederWare (Tactical Neuronics) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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A very simple adventure in which you drive a tank through a maze filled with robot orbs. Your goal is to find your way out of the labyrinth, so the emphasis is exploration rather than combat. John Reder originally published General Budda's Labyrinth under the name RederWare. There are 3 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Episode 1 - The Orbs of Destruction General Budda's Labyrinth v1.1 Registered Version (961k) Tactical Neuronics generously released this game as freeware under General Buddas Labyrinth Freeware License.
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| God of Thunder 1994 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 9 | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Adventure | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by CSE Games | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Impulse Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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It is 927 A.D., and Odin has summoned you, Thor, to rescue Midgard from your evil half-brother, Loki. This is a very clever puzzle game with action and fighting thrown in for fun. You navigate the world screen by screen, with different obstacles at almost every turn. Your enchanted hammer, Mjolnir, can be thrown and will always return to you. It will kill most, but not all enemies. Some of the screens can be very difficult and require a lot of thinking, but they're very rewarding to solve. Even the graphics and sound are enjoyable. Version 1.0 was published by Software Creations before it changed its name to Impulse Software, which published v1.1. There are 3 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Part 1: Serpent Surprise! God of Thunder v1.1 Registered Version (1035k) Play online Author Adam Pedersen has generously released this game as freeware.
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| Heartlight PC 1993 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Puzzle | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by xLand Games | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Epic MegaGames | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Heartlight PC is a simple, but challenging puzzle game in which you must guide a dwarf through levels by collecting all of the hearts in a level. You can move up, down, left and right, in levels where hearts, rocks, bombs, and other objects are suspended in a field of grass. The challenge comes from properly using gravity to drop obstacles out of your path without trapping yourself or the hearts, or strategically dropping explosives to reach new areas. The are 60 levels in this game, with only the first 20 playable in the shareware version. Heartlight PC Creative Commons Registered Version (455k) Play online Developer xLand generously released this game as freeware under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 2.5 license on 25 June 2006.
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| Heroes 1998 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (always) | Simulation | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by RealTech VR | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by RealTech VR | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: VGA 320×200×256c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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A super-enhanced version of SNAFU with five modes of play. Four snakes, played by the computer and 1 or 2 humans, move about a playing field and die if they are unable to move because they are surrounded by their own body, an enemy, or the terrain. An auto-pilot feature causes your snake to automatically turn when it runs into something, but this feature can be disabled. You won't survive long in this fast-paced game without it! Game maps are usually wraparound, and have two levels connected by ramps, and some have tunnels that allow you to pass underneath levels. Every map has a different background, graphics and soundtrack. Maps can have dips and hills, squares that prevent you from turning, speed you up, slow you down, or bring you to a complete stop for a few seconds. A boost bar allows you to speed up to outrun opponents. The speed of this game can get pretty intense. There are power-ups that make the snake longer or shorter, faster or slower, gain lives, score points, temporarily invert the direction keys, and they can effect either the player or all opponents. There are power-ups that cause the playing field to rotate 360° during play, and a "wave" effect that stretches and warps the screen like waves on the ocean. The soundtrack is awesome, and the visual effects are the most impressive that I have ever seen in a DOS game. Touching certain squares causes fiery explosions on a short time delay, which will kill any snake. The screen can fill with flames as they chase snakes across the explosion squares. The snakes' bodies are opaque so that you can see the squares underneath them. A radar screen shows all of the snakes and power-ups. In Quest mode, you must grow your snake and then find the gateway to the next level. In Kill'em All, the levels are full of "lemmings" in the color of the four snakes, and you must kill all of your opponents' lemmings while trying not to kill your own. The floor gets covered in blood. Death Match is a battle mode where the last snake alive wins. In Time Ca$h, the level is full of money, and the first snake to collect a randomly set amount wins. In Colors, there are pyramids in the color of the four snakes which are worth points, and X-pyramids that take points away. Collect your own pyramids and your opponents' X-pyramids until a random amount of time runs out, and the highest score wins. Custom levels can be created with a built-in level editor. This game must be seen to be believed. Heroes v1.0 Freeware (2914k) This game was originally released as freeware.
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| Heros I: The Sanguine Seven 1993 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Jeffrey Fullerton | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Safari Software (Epic MegaGames), Jeffrey Fullerton | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Heros is an EGA platformer with FM sound and a comic book theme. You can play as seven different heroes, including a flying squirrel who can glide short distances, a woman with a rocket pack, and a wad of bubble gum who can climb walls. The heroes must stop the reign of terror of an evil rabbit named Wild Hare. Comic book stereotype phrases like "Bam" and "Oof" appear when heroes or villains are hit. Originally published as full version software by Jeffrey Fullerton, Safari Software (then a division of Epic MegaGames) later published a shareware version (with correct spelling of the word "heroes") called "Heroes: The Tantalizing Trio" because only three of the heroes are playable. There are 50 levels in this game, with only the first 11 different playable in the shareware version.
Author Jeffrey Fullerton generously released this game as freeware under the Heros Freeware License on 22 June 2005.
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| Hyperoid 1991 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | Win16 Freeware (always) | Shooter | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Hutchins Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Hutchins Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Screenshot | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Hyperoid is a clone of Atari's popular 1979 arcade game, Asteroids. Your goal is to destroy all of the asteroids on the screen, which break into smaller asteroids as you shoot them. Hostile spaceships attack from time to time which can destroy you by colliding with you or shooting you. The screen wraps around on all four sides. All of the graphics are wireframe polygons, imitating the vector graphics of the original game. Despite enhancements like color, shields, bombs, and more intelligent enemies, since the game is still faithful in concept to Asteroids, the author wisely released the game under a freeware license.
Edward Hutchins originally released this game as freeware under the GNU General Public License Version 1.
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| Jazz Jackrabbit: Holiday Hare 1994 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 10 | DOS Freeware (always) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Epic MegaGames | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Epic MegaGames | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Released as "Jazz Jackrabbit Christmas Edition", this freeware episode lists itself as "Episode X: Holiday Hare" on the episode selection screen, beneath the 9 episodes from Jazz Jackrabbit. Episode X was never added to the original game, so Holiday Hare is a standalone game based on the Jazz Jackrabbit engine. Featuring the same awesome graphics as the original, tons of weapons, and a rock and roll soundtrack based on a medley of Christmas carols, Jazz travels to the wintry planet Holidaius to fight more tortoises and other enemies. Jazz Jackrabbit: Holiday Hare (1404k)
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| Jazz Jackrabbit: Holiday Hare 1995 1995 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (always) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Epic MegaGames | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Epic MegaGames | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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For the second year in a row, Epic released a freeware episode of Jazz Jackrabbit that lists itself as "Episode X: Holiday Hare" on the episode selection screen, beneath the 9 episodes from Jazz Jackrabbit. Despite the identical name and episode designation as 1994's "Christmas Edition", Holiday Hare 95 is a new standalone game based on the Jazz Jackrabbit engine. Featuring the same awesome graphics as the original, tons of weapons, and an incredible remix of Carol of the Bells for the soundtrack, this time Jazz travels to the planet Candion to fight more tortoises and other enemies, and eat lots of candy.
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| Jetpack 1993 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Adam Pedersen | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Impulse Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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One of my all-time favorite games. Jetpack has similarities to Lode Runner, except that you control a character who has a jetpack that allows him to fly (when he has fuel), in addition to the ability to temporarily phase change bricks in order to trap enemies or move through walls, floors and ceilings. In every level various enemies try to kill you, and you must collect all of the green orbs and make it through the door to advance to the next stage. The levels and challenges are excellent, and make good use of stairs, barriers and different types of terrain. There is also an extremely good level editor, and hundreds of user-created levels can be found on fan sites throughout the internet. Originally published by Software Creations, the name changed to Impulse Software by v1.4. There are 100 levels in this game, with only the first 10 playable in the shareware version. Complete version history:Jetpack v1.5 Registered (484k) Play onlineJetpack v1.4 Shareware (337k) Jetpack v1.3 Shareware (441k) Jetpack v1.2 Shareware (299k) Jetpack v1.1 Shareware (280k) Jetpack v1.0 Shareware (296k) Author Adam Pedersen generously released Jetpack and Squarez Deluxe! as freeware under the Jetpack and Squarez Deluxe Freeware License on 17 December 1998. They are both in the same zip file.
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| Jetpack Christmas Special! 1993 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (always) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Adam Pedersen | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Software Creations (Impulse Software) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: VGA 320×200×256c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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In this free promotional Christmas version of Jetpack, you play as Santa Claus! Instead of green orbs, you now need to collect all of the Christmas presents to move to the next level. Santa has a jetpack that allows him to fly (when he has fuel), and he can temporarily phase change bricks to trap enemies or move through walls, floors and ceilings. The levels and challenges are excellent, and make good use of stairs, barriers and different types of terrain. The Christmas edition still comes with a level editor, so you can make your own Christmas-themed levels. There are 10 levels in the game.
This game was originally released under a freeware license.
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| Kalakh 1991 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (always) | Traditional | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Sergey Ryzhkov | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Sergey Ryzhkov | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: EGA 640×350×16c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Sergey Ryzhkov's first game, Kalakh is an EGA version of the game Kalah, known in Russia as Калах (pronounced "kalach", ending with the voiceless velar fricative, or "hard ch sound", found in most European languages). Usually called Mancala in the West, Kalah is a "sowing game", like Wari. The board consists of a row of six pits for each player, known as "houses", with six coins in each house, and a larger pit called a "store" (called a "kalakh" in this game) for each player to place their captured coins. Gameplay is simple, with each player taking turns removing all of the coins from one of his houses and distributing one coin at a time, counter-clockwise around the board, except for the house that he drew from. If this causes two or three coins to be left in any of his opponent's houses, he captures them and places them in his store. Kalah differs from Wari in that the player sows a coin into his own store, though not his opponent's, so the store is actually part of the board. If the player's last coin lands in his store, he gets to play again. If a player has no coins in any of his houses, his opponent scores all of his remaining coins into his store. The player with the most coins at the end of the game wins, and the difference in scores can be used to decide how much the losing players owes the winner if the game is played for money. The computer opponent has three difficulty levels. Though the author notes that he saw little commercial potential for the game, it's equally likely that he distributed the game as freeware because he would not have been entitled to profit from the game as a citizen of the Soviet Union.
This game was originally released under a freeware license.
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| Ken's Labyrinth 1993 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 5.5 | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | 3D Shooter | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Ken Silverman | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Epic MegaGames | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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The author calls this the first Wolfenstein 3D clone. Aliens from the planet Zogar, led by Ken, have abducted your dog, Sparky, and discovered dogs to be the most intelligent species in the universe. They've also abducted you and put you in a labyrinth that they use to test the strength and intelligence of different species. There are lots of weird aliens to shoot and a dog to save in this unusual first-person shooter. There are 3 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Episode 1 - Search for Sparky Ken's Labyrinth v2.01 Registered (867k) Play online Author Ken Silverman generously released this game under the Ken's Labyrinth Freeware License on 16 November 1999.
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| Kentris 1991 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (always) | Puzzle | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Ken Silverman | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Ken Silverman | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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If Tetris has gotten too easy for you, try Kentris. The playing fields move around the screen during gameplay and you can add garbage to the bottom of your opponent's screen as you compete. The background constantly changes colors and there are voices and sound effects. This can be a lot of fun if you like a challenge. Kentris v4.3 Freeware and source code in Microsoft C 6.00A (144k) Play online Author Ken Silverman has generously released this game as freeware.
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| Kiloblaster 1992 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 10 | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Shooter | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Epic MegaGames | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Epic MegaGames | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: VGA 320×200×256c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Essentially an updated version of Galaxian, you shoot your way through wave after wave of alien ships in classic arcade shooter style. Your ship has shields, and there are frequent power-ups to restore hit points, become invulnerable, or be able to fire more shots simultaneously. You can also move vertically as well as horizontally. All of those upgrades would make the game much more fun if it wasn't limited by the fact that you have to wait for your shot (or shots) to clear the screen before you can fire again, which really slows down the gameplay. The backgrounds are quite nice. There are 3 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Episode 1 - Death of a Starship Complete version history:Kiloblaster v2.0 Registered Version (1378k)Kiloblaster v2.0 Shareware Episode (530k) Play online Kiloblaster v1.0 Registered Version (1374k) Kiloblaster v1.0 Shareware Episode (489k) Source code for Kiloblaster in Borland Turbo C (103k) Author Allen Pilgrim generously released this game as freeware under the Kiloblaster and Xargon Freeware License on 4 August 2008.
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| Kosmonaut 1989 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former commercial) | Racing | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by BlueMoon Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by BlueMoon Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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More of a driving game than a racing game, since there are no other cars. This challenging game requires you to make it to the end of interstellar highways without being destroyed by obstacles, or running out of gas or oxygen. The title screen calls the game "Skyroads", the name that BlueMoon used for the popular 1993 sequel. BlueMoon's website calls the game Kosmonaut, and the executable file is called kosmo.exe, which suggests that the game was either marketed as Kosmonaut, or the name was changed retroactively. Kosmonaut Freeware (74k) Play online BlueMoon Software has generously released this game as freeware.
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| Kye 1992 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | Win16 Freeware (former shareware) | Puzzle | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Colin Garbutt | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Colin Garbutt | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Screenshot | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Kye is a classic "collect the diamonds" game named after the author's dog. Kye must be navigated through some difficult levels, eating or pushing blocks out of his way, and figuring out obstacles and traps. There are balls that move in one direction, sticky blocks that can pull obstacles out of the way, and five kinds of monsters that pursue Kye in real-time. Besides the monsters, some levels have blocks that are constantly in motion, so reflexes and skill are required in addition to problem solving. There is no gravity and no boulders to drop, and the levels, blocks and monsters are entirely original, so this isn't just another Boulder Dash clone. You can design your own custom levels, and a number of third-party level packs exist. Version 2.0 added five extra levels, black holes, one way doors, time bombs, an on-screen level editor, and registration now required a charitable donation to Save the Children, instead of direct payment to the author. There are 15 levels in the shareware version, and originally there were 20 extra levels in the registered version. User-created levels were added over the years, with a final tally of 496 extra levels in the registered version. Complete version history:
Author Colin Garbutt generously released this game as freeware on 18 February 2008. He still asks that a donation be made to a children's charity.
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| Lure of the Temptress 1992 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former commercial) | Adventure | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Revolution Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Revolution Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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A point-and-click adventure game – what many people call a Sierra-style game – with pretty good animation for the time. In the days before graphics, this would have been a text adventure. The "Look" option gives you information about your surroundings and the objects you wish to examine. In a medieval fantasy world, you must escape from a dungeon and save the kingdom. One interesting feature is that you have a sidekick who you can give instructions to carry out. The village people go about their lives without you and even have conversations with each other, which creates a fun sense of realism. Lure of the Temptress v1.0 English (1778k) Play online Revolution Software has generously released this game as freeware. NOTE: When the game first begins, move the cursor to the menu at the top of the screen and RESTART the game. This bypasses the copy protection system.
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| Mah Jongg -8514- 1991 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (always) | Traditional | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Ron Balewski | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Ron Balewski | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: 8514 1024×768×256c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Think about Mah Jongg -V-G-A-. Now think about it running at 1024×768 with 256 colors, featuring tiles with intricate, shaded pictograms and calligraphy that cast shadows across their tiles. This hidden gem is Mah Jongg -V-G-A- rewritten for the 8514 graphics standard (created by IBM to replace VGA), and it looks absolutely amazing. Sadly, there were no further versions because the standard never became widely adopted. To play it you'll need a genuine 8514/a graphics card, an 8514-compatible graphics card such as the ATI Mach 8 and Mach 32, and the IIT AGX, or a SVGA graphics card with at least 1MB of video RAM and an 8514 emulator. This game can be played in DOSBox by using the Multiple SVGA Chipset plugin to emulate a Tseng Labs ET4000 graphics card, and RIXAI8 to emulate the 8514. Version 0.6 was a public beta, and Ron Balewski confirmed that it may be considered freeware. Complete version history:
This game never left the beta stage and was never sold, and author Ron Balewski has generously released this game as freeware.
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| Mah Jongg -V-G-A- 1989 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Traditional | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Ron Balewski | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Ron Balewski | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: VGA 640×480×16c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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One of my all-time favorite DOS games. I had never played Mahjong solitaire when I discovered this game, but it was so easy to use that I was able to figure it out without reading the instructions, and now it's the only DOS version I play. It looks great, it tells you when you're out of moves, and it's easy and intuitive to use. After each "official" release, a number of revisions were released with the same version number. Differences are listed in fixes.doc. Version 3.1 / Serial No. 5524 fixes a bug that existed in v3.0 and 3.1 that caused a divide by zero error on CPUs faster than 50 MHz, and also includes Mah Jongg for Windows v1.0.
Author Ron Balewski has generously released this game as freeware. Mah Jongg '97, a Win32 version, is still sold for $20 on CD-ROM or registered download.
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| Mah Jongg LapTop 1989 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Traditional | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Ron Balewski | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Ron Balewski | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: CGA 640×200 mono | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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A monochrome version of Mah Jongg -V-G-A-, this game does an admirable job of bringing Mahjong solitaire to monochrome and LCD screens. The tiles for the winds, flowers, seasons and all three dragons are easily identifiable, and the game has most of the features of the VGA version. The game doesn't automatically tell you when you're out of moves, which is a complaint I have about many Mahjong solitaire games. There is also no timer, but the game is well worth playing if you can only display one color. Mah Jongg LapTop v1.1 Freeware (64k) Play online Author Ron Balewski has generously released this game as freeware. Mah Jongg '97, a Win32 version, is still sold for $20 on CD-ROM or registered download.
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| Major Stryker 1993 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 6 | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Shooter | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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A great EGA shooter with a surprisingly good soundtrack and lots of firepower. Major Stryker must fly to three different planets to fight aliens which are threatening the Earth. He destroys alien space ships and rescues humans in beautifully layered, triple parallax scrolling EGA levels. Mission briefings are delivered by a beautiful woman who adds some rather tame sexual innuendo, but the game is still appropriate for children. Apogee's FAQ used to claim that versions 1.1, 1.2 and 1.3 were never released to the public, but I was able to prove that v1.3 appeared on a number of shareware compilation CDs and set the record straight. There are 3 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Episode 1 - Lava Planet Complete version history:
Apogee generously released this game as freeware under the Major Stryker Freeware License in March 2006.
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| MasterMind 1995 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (always) | Traditional | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Sverx | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Sverx | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: EGA 640×350×16c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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One of the best Mastermind games I've ever seen. Options must be set from the command line, but there isn't much to configure. It's extremely easy to play and requires no instructions. It is simple, yet attractive. You probably already know how to play this game, but it's interesting to watch the computer opponent play so you can learn the optimal strategy. MasterMind v1.00 Freeware (40k)
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| MicroMan 1993 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 10 | Win16 Freeware (always) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Brian L. Goble | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Brian L. Goble | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Screenshot | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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MicroMan was created as a playable demo to promote Brian Goble's Windows Animation Package. It features a variety of mechanical enemies, three weapon upgrades, a super jump ability and a shield, moving platforms, platforms that fade in and out of existence, transporters, a mirror room where MicroMan is mirrored vertically and horizontally, and a total of 14 rooms and two bottomless pits. The free demo led to the creation of an entire game, The Adventures of MicroMan. Although designed to show off the abilities of WAP, the game is quite challenging and even includes a Cheat Mode to help players complete the game.
This game was originally released under a freeware license.
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| Monuments of Mars 1990 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Scenario Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: CGA 320×200×4c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Based on the FAST engine, Monuments of Mars takes most of the best elements of Pharaoh's Tomb and adds new challenges. Astronauts have been disappearing in ruins on Mars, and your job is to discover the secrets and rescue the survivors. Gameplay is quite different from the Nevada Smith series because many areas only become accessible after tripping invisible switches, and there are movable blocks. Having a changeable environment is a great twist. Your character has infinite lives, but it's still a good idea to save in case you get stuck somewhere and can't die. Poor collision detection makes some of the later levels more frustrating than necessary. Developed by Scenario Software, Todd Replogle misspelled the name of his own company, listing it as "Scenerio Software" on the title page! There are 20 levels in each volume, which must be played sequentially because there is no map screen. There are 4 volumes in this game, with only the first volume playable in the shareware version. Volume 1: First Contact Complete version history:Monuments of Mars v1.0 Registered Version (201k) Play onlineMonuments of Mars v1.0 Shareware Episode (78k) Play online Apogee generously released this game as freeware under the Monuments of Mars Freeware License on 20 March 2009.
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| Moraff's Flygame 1991 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (always) | Simulation | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by MoraffWare | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by MoraffWare | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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A map with landscape features of various altitudes, such as mountains and valleys, is randomly generated. You can fly only up and down on the screen, at a fixed rate of speed, and you play until you crash into a mountain. I'll be honest, this game isn't likely to hold anyone's attention for more than a few minutes, but it is a classic piece of MoraffWare software and is interesting as a history curiosity. This game was mentioned in the ordering information of most other Moraff games, but there was never a registered version. Moraff's Flygame was always freely distributable. Moraff's Flygame Freeware (10k)
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| One Must Fall 1993 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 4 | DOS Freeware (always) | Fighting | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Diversions Entertainment | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Diversions Entertainment | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Before releasing One Must Fall 2097, Diversions Entertainment released One Must Fall as freeware as a sort of public beta test. There is only one fighter, and you can only play against a human opponent. The characters look like low resolution photographs, reminiscent of Mortal Kombat. Fighters can punch, kick, throw fireballs, teleport, and shadow kick. There's not much to do, but it's a decent little fighter, and it's historically interesting for being an early version of One Must Fall 2097. Complete version history:
Diversions Entertainment released this game under a freeware license.
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| One Must Fall 2097 1994 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 9 | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Fighting | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Diversions Entertainment | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Epic MegaGames | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: VGA 320×200×256c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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In this fighting game, instead of picking a fighter you pick both a giant robot and a pilot. Robots fight in a number of different arenas, some of which contain hazards that can damage fighters. After each fight there is a brief sportscast with a summary and an actual screenshot from the fight. A tournament mode lets you start with a minimal robot and win money to upgrade it for future fights. There are 11 robots, 5 arenas and 4 tournaments in this game, with only 3 robots, 1 arena and 1 tournament playable in the shareware version. One Must Fall 2097 v2.1 Registered Version (6684k) Play online Diversions Entertainment, who developed this game, has generously released this game as freeware.
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| Overkill 1992 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Shooter | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Tech-Noir Productions | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Epic MegaGames | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: EGA 320×200×16c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Essentially a vertically scrolling version of R-Type, without the one-hit kills. Kill everything that moves, collect power-ups, try not to get destroyed. In Overkill, your ship has a shield so that you can take some damage, and numerous weapons upgrades are possible. You can press Tab to switch between your various weapons upgrades to pick the one most useful one for the situation. The graphics are quite impressive. There are 6 episodes in this game, with only the first two episodes playable in the shareware version. Episode 1: Edrax
Author Ste Cork generously released this game as freeware under the Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivs 3.0 License on 23 July 2008.
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| Pharaoh's Tomb 1990 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Micro F/X Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: CGA 320×200×4c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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You are Nevada Smith, an archaeologist and adventurer who is exploring an Egyptian pyramid. You can jump and shoot arrows, and there is sometimes hidden treasure in some of the blocks if you hit them from below, like Super Mario. There is no sidescrolling, though. Each level consists of a single, appropriately named room, and there are 20 levels in each episode. There are 4 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Episode 1 - Raiders of the Lost Tomb
Apogee generously released this game as freeware under the Pharaoh's Tomb Freeware License on 20 March 2009.
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| Psion Chess 1985 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former commercial) | Traditional | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Psion Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Psion Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: Hercules 720×348 mono CGA 640×200 mono | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Using an engine written by legendary chess engine programmer Richard Lang, Psion Chess was ahead of its time. Despite monochrome graphics, Psion Chess could be viewed in either 2D or 3D. Designed for high resolution monochrome Hercules Graphics Cards, the Hercules option sets the resolution to 720×384 and uses dithering to simulate shades of gray. The "IBM color card" option reduces the resolution to 640×400 for color graphics cards, still in monochrome, but without dithering. The playing strength doesn't go quite as low as modern chess software, but the easiest level can be beaten by a novice player, and it makes a great opponent for even very skilled players. To illustrate Psion Chess at its weakest level, I played this game as white on Level Novice E0. 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 a6 4. Ba4 Nf6 5. Nc3 b5 6. Bb3 b4 7. Nd5 Nxe4 8. d4 d6 9. Nd2 Ng5 10. Nf3 Nxf3+ 11. Qxf3 Be6 12. O-O exd4 13. Nf4 Kd7 14. Nxe6 fxe6 15. Qf7+ Kc8 16. Qxe6+ Kb7 17. Bd5 Qe8 18. Qg4 Qe5 19. c4 Rd8 20. Bf4 Qe8 21. Bg3 Kb6 22. a4 h5 23. Qf4 Qe2 24. a5+ Nxa5 25. Qxd4+ c5 26. Qh4 Re8 27. Qh3 Nxc4 28. Qd7 Na5 29. Rxa5 Kxa5 30. Ra1+ Kb6 31. Qb7# White checkmates Psion Chess v2.13 (96k) Play online Author Richard Lang and copyright holder Psion Software have generously released this game as freeware.
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| Puzzle Fun-Pak 1989 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Puzzle | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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The Puzzle Fun-Pak is a collection of simple games. Block Five is the ancient game of Gomoku, in which players take turns placing an X or an O on a 19×19 grid and attempt to get five in a row in any direction. It's basically an enormous game of tic-tac-toe. Asteroid Rescue places you in a ship that must maneuver its way through a dense asteroid field to rescue astronauts. Phrase Master is a mix between Wheel of Fortune and Hangman. You essentially spin a wheel to determine how much your guess will be worth, but there is no way to go bankrupt or miss a turn, other than guessing incorrectly. Players continue to guess any letter (there is no cost, but also no score for selecting a vowel) until they get one wrong. Like Hangman, both players have a limited number of guesses. The game continues until both players have guessed incorrectly six times, then the player with the higher score wins. A bonus guess is awarded to the player who completes each phrase. There are 500 phrases in 10 categories. Maze Machine is the only game that requires a graphics card, which it uses to generate a maze that is displayed on screen, and can be printed out. There are 4 games in the Puzzle Fun-Pak: Block Five Complete version history:Puzzle Fun-Pak v1.0 Freeware Episodes (298k) Play onlineApogee generously released Adventure Fun-Pak and Puzzle Fun-Pak as freeware under the Adventure & Puzzle Fun Packs Freeware License in May 2004. They are both in the same zip file.
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| Redhook's Revenge 1993 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Traditional | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by ImagiSOFT | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by ImagiSOFT | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Redhook's Revenge is a pirate-themed board game. Players roll a die and move their ship around the board. Some spaces require you to answer trivia questions, and the rewards will often include items that will help you during the game. Insurance, for instance, can be used to protect yourself from disasters. Most items, like ropes or cotton, only protect against specific disasters. Winning cannons will help you attack cities, or other players if you land on their square. The more cannons you have, the more dice you can roll. Perhaps not as practical as the trivia in most educational games, there is some interesting information about the age of pirates, and the game is infused with a sense of humor as well. The full version is now freeware, but it can't be distributed without permission, so you'll need to go to ImagiSOFT's website to download it.
ImagiSOFT has generously released this game as freeware, which can be downloaded from their website.
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| Robot Crusades 1994 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Simulation | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by RederWare (Tactical Neuronics) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by RederWare (Tactical Neuronics) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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In the 22nd Century athletes have reached their limits in traditional sports and records are no longer broken, so people have turned to robots for their entertainment. In this complex strategy game, you must design an army of robots with varying abilities to battle an opposing army. Victory is achieved when either side destroys the other side's satellite, but this isn't just Capture the Flag. Robots fight and destroy each other, you can hide mines, and some robots can act as minesweepers, adding an element of Stratego or Admirals. The satellite is also the means by which the robots communicate with each other, so the robots can only receive orders while they're within range of the satellite. The catch is that you don't get to control the robots. Once you've created your army, the robots fight without human intervention, so everything depends on the strength of your planning. John Reder originally published Robot Crusades under the name RederWare. Registered robots could not be used in the shareware version. Robot Crusades v1.0 Registered Version (661k) Author John Reder has generously released this game as freeware.
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| Roketz 1996 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former commercial) | Shooter | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by BlueMoon Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by BlueMoon Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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A space combat game for play against a computer or another human over a network connection. Ships can move in 360 degrees and there is a small amount of gravity. Money is earned during combat which can be used to upgrade your ship in many different ways. The computer opponent's skill level can be adjusted, but the computer upgrades when you do so that it maintains the same difficulty level regardless of how powerful you become. This surprisingly good game features impressive graphics and sound and addictive gameplay. Roketz Freeware (8217k) BlueMoon Software has generously released this game as freeware.
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| Sango Fighter 1993 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 10 | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Fighting | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Panda Entertainment | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Accend | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: VGA 320×200×256c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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A Street Fighter clone, Sango Fighter is set in ancient China at the end of the Han Dynasty. Choose a general to fight enemy generals in detailed Chinese locales to restore peace to the empire. The graphics and sound are quite good and the scrolling is smooth for a DOS fighting game. There are 5 playable fighters in the registered version, with only 2 playable in the shareware version.
Copyright holder Super Fighter Team generously released this game as freeware in April 2009.
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| Salad Scribble 1994 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | Win16 Freeware (always) | Educational | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Paul T. Dawson | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Paul T. Dawson | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Screenshot | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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A straightforward paint program for Windows 3.1 that can do a few things that Paintbrush can't. Designed with fun in mind, there is a color randomizer, and lots of options for drawing shapes, typing text with any installed font, creating inverse images, and just generally messing around at an amateur level. Salad Scribble is free for non-commercial use, and can load and save BMP images.
This game was originally released under a freeware license.
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| SkiFree 1991 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 9 | Win16 Freeware (always) | Sports | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Chris Pirih | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Chris Pirih, Microsoft | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Screenshot | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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In 1991, Chris Pirih made a little skiing game for Windows and distributed it as freeware, thus the name SkiFree. His employer, Microsoft, liked it so much that they acquired the copyright and added it to the Microsoft Entertainment Pack. Chris Pirih retained the right to create and publish new versions and, one way or another, a copy of this simple little game made its way onto computers around the world. There are three modes of play: Slalom, Free-style, and Tree Slalom, or you can just ski wherever you want. Slalom is a 540m race to the finish line, and you have to ski around the flags. Tree Slalom is 1040m version of Slalom, but with lots of trees to avoid. Free-style is an untimed 1040m course that requires you to get style points for hitting jumps and doing aerial tricks. The skier can be controlled with the keyboard or mouse, and can spin horizontally with the left and right arrow keys, or head over heels with the up and down arrow keys or the left mouse button. Style points are lost for crashing. The game is remembered for its many Easter eggs and extras, such as dogs, snowboarders and other skiers on the hill, walking trees, and an Abominable Snow Monster. SkiFree v1.0 Freeware (30k) SkiFree v1.04, a Win32 port of the game, is available as a free download at the Official SkiFree Home Page.
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| SkyRoads 1993 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Racing | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by BlueMoon Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by BlueMoon Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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The sequel and remake of Kosmonaut, with vastly better graphics and excellent music. More of a driving game than a racing game, since there are no other cars. This challenging game requires you to make it to the end of interstellar highways without being destroyed by obstacles, or running out of gas or oxygen. Gravity varies by level. The game has an awesome soundtrack, the backgrounds are beautiful, and the levels are full of color. There are 30 roads in this game, with only the first 6 playable in the shareware version. SkyRoads Registered Version (580k) Play online Bluemoon Interactive generously released this game as freeware under the Bluemoon Interactive Freeware License.
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| SkyRoads Xmas Special 1993 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Racing | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by BlueMoon Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by BlueMoon Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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An extremely challenging "Christmas version" of SkyRoads. Features identical gameplay but all new levels, many of which have Christmas-themed backgrounds. There are 30 roads in this game, with only the first 6 playable in the shareware version. SkyRoads Xmas Special Registered Version (587k) Play online Bluemoon Interactive generously released this game as freeware under the Bluemoon Interactive Freeware License.
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| Slam! 1993 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 9.5 | Win16 Freeware (former shareware) | Simulation | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Robert Epps | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Robert Epps | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Screenshot | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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After all these years, Slam! is still the best air hockey game I've ever played. The puck moves smoothly, the speed is intense, and the sound effects are perfect. This game just looks, sounds and feels like air hockey. The computer's skill can be adjusted to make the game challenging for any player. Even the colors can be customized. The game is first to 11 points, which is one of the few settings that can't be adjusted from within the game – though an unpublished variable called "PointsToWin" can be added to the .ini file. Fun for all ages. Slam! v1.0 Freeware (44k) Author Robert Epps generously released this game as freeware on 5 February 2008.
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| Snarf 1988 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Adventure | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Everett Kaser Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Everett Kaser Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: EGA 640×350×16c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Snarf is an adventure game with perhaps a bit of a Robotron influence. The hero can fire his weapon in any of four directions while moving in any other direction, so coordination with both hands is important. There hero must find keys in order to reach the next level, while monsters called Snarfs spawn out of Snarf nests. The Snarfs will never stop coming, but they will spawn out of the nearest nest, so it's possible to wipe them out in one area and lead them to spawn in an area where they won't bother you. There are teleporters which the Snarfs can't use, and hit points can be restored at aid stations. Hit points aren't restored at the end of levels, so it can be a real endurance match to survive to the next level that has an aid station. A fun and challenging game for gamers of any age. There are 50 levels in this game, with only the first 20 playable in the shareware version. Complete version history:
Everett Kaser generously gave Classic DOS Games (and only Classic DOS Games) permission to distribute the licensed version of this game as freeware under the Snarf Freeware License on 2 January 2008.
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| Solder Runner 1996 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Puzzle | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by SumWare Software (Tactical Neuronics) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by SumWare Software (Tactical Neuronics) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Solder Runner is one of the most creative and entertaining adventure games I have ever played. The game is played inside a computer that is infected with viruses. You navigate through a world that looks like a circuit board and zap viruses while solving puzzles. Beads of solder can be pushed from screen to screen to block the attacks of zappers. Electrical fields can be turned off with dip switches, there are diodes that can only be passed through in one direction, there are gateways that require transistors to access, circuit breakers that can cut through voltage lines, and transformers to teleport from place to place. Data is scattered throughout the game that can be collected for points, but the viruses will destroy it. One of the best features is the map screen. There are still a few secret passages, but the game focuses on problem solving instead of finding secret passages through the frustrating systematic testing of walls and random chance. I'm reminded of God of Thunder, except that the scope is larger because a single bead of solder from one room may be needed in a room several screens away. The level design is superb. All of the elements in this game can be found in other games, but I have never seen them put together so elegantly in a game that simulates the look and feel of being inside a computer. John Reder originally published Solder Runner under the name SumWare Software. There are 3 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Episode 1: Diagnostics Solder Runner v1.0 Registered Version (1578k) Author John Reder has generously released this game as freeware.
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| Squarez Deluxe! 1992 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Puzzle | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Adam Pedersen | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Adam Pedersen, Impulse Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Squarez is a puzzle game in which blocks of various shapes can enter the screen from the bottom corner of the screen and can be rotated and placed anywhere, provided that they can be moved through the blocks that are already sitting in the playing field. The goal is to place the blocks so that squares of at least 3×3 are formed, which causes them to disappear. There are also special blocks, such as bombs, missiles, and goo, that can remove blocks or hinder your ability to move or place blocks. The game ends when you can no longer move pieces onto the playing field. Originally known as just Squarez, the game was renamed Squarez Deluxe! and the version number returned to v1.0 when it began to be published by Software Creations, which was renamed Impulse Software by v1.2.
Author Adam Pedersen generously released Jetpack and Squarez Deluxe! as freeware under the Jetpack and Squarez Deluxe Freeware License on 17 December 1998. They are both in the same zip file.
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| Stargunner 1996 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 7 | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Shooter | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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This shooter has very good graphics and sound. Much like Tyrian, items can be purchased to upgrade your ship using money you collect for destroying enemies. The game is sidescrolling instead of vertical scrolling, which is unusual for a PC shooter. A wide variety of weapons and upgrades make for a lot of fun variation in gameplay. Complete version history:
Apogee generously released this game as freeware under the Stargunner Freeware License in June 2005.
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| Super ZZT 1992 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Adventure | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Epic MegaGames | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Epic MegaGames | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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The sequel to ZZT, Super ZZT switches from being a collection of single screens to a system that allows massive levels that can be scrolled in every direction. The text mode is changed to 40×25 mode from 80×40 in ZZT, so you can't see as far ahead in this game. Gameplay is otherwise familiar, and a number of new enemies are added. Gameplay seems to be easier in Super ZZT, and there are less occasions where you lose instantly by failing to solve a puzzle. Super ZZT also featured a level editor, but the game proved less popular than the original, and less levels were designed for it. Volume numbers in Super ZZT continue from the original ZZT. There are 3 volumes in this game, with only the last volume playable in the shareware version. Volume 5: ZZT's Proving Grounds Super ZZT v2.0 Shareware Episode (158k) Play online Epic MegaGames has generously released this game as freeware.
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| Supernova 1987 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Adventure | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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A text adventure set in the future on a distant mining colony. Supernova recognizes over 1000 words and displays status information on the screen. Points are awarded for achieving goals and advancing the story. The original text of the game stated that "This game is placed in the public domain for your enjoyment", but also requested a $10 donation, so it should be considered full version shareware.
Apogee generously released this game as freeware under the Supernova Freeware License in March 1998.
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| Taking Care of Business 1994 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 8 | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Puzzle | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Moonlite Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Moonlite Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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In this platform-like puzzle game, you guide Demolisher Dirk through levels that consist of a single screen. Dirk can jump a little bit and fall from great heights, and he can pick up and move boxes. There are power-ups that allow him to break a wall with his hard hat, destroy a block in the floor with dynamite, jump extra high, or use a ladder. There are other perils, like blocks that disappear when you walk over them and electric fields that can sometimes be turned off with switches. Dirk moves a tile at a time, and the focus is figuring out how to move the boxes to help you reach the exit, so it reminds me of Sokoban with gravity. There are 60 puzzles in this game, with only the first 15 playable in the shareware version. Taking Care of Business v1.0 Registered Version (332k) Moonlite Software has generously released this game as freeware.
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| Telengard 1985 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 8 | DOS Freeware (former commercial) | RPG | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Daniel Lawrence | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Daniel Lawrence | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: CGA 320×200×4c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Daniel Lawrence's dungeon crawl game for mainframe computers, DND, was so popular that university students were using up all the system resources playing it. Under increasing pressure from system administrators, Lawrence bought a Commodore PET 2001 and decided to port the game for use on microcomputers. Unfortunately, the maps wouldn't fit in memory any more, so he reduced the number of dungeons from three to one, and instead of a map, he had the game generate the map algorithmically. This allowed him to create a 200×200 grid with 50 levels – that's two million "rooms" – from a small piece of code at runtime. The game was ported to many different computers and published by Avalon Hill. While DND was text-based, the PC version of Telengard featured CGA graphics. As in DND, you can pick up magical items, fight monsters, cast magic, and find treasure. Hit points and skill at casting magic increase as you gain experience points and level up. Whereas DND is turn-based, Telengard is played in real time, which means that monsters can attack you even when you're not moving. Telengard v5.04 (53k) Play online Author Daniel Lawrence has generously released this game as freeware.
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| TerraFire 1997 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Shooter | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by ORT Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by ORT Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Based on the classic video game Thrust, you pilot a small spacecraft to various planets in search of nuclear bombs that are hidden in heavily defended bunkers. The game retains the look and feel of AstroFire but adds varying levels of gravity and adds 360° parallax scrolling levels to navigate instead of wraparound levels. There are weapons and other upgrades, and you have to earn the right to save your game by finding the save power-up. Once you've found the bomb, you grab it with a tractor beam and must pull it into space. Grabbing the bomb triggers a booby trap and you have a short time to escape. The bomb has mass and inertia, so it pulls you around in the direction of its momentum, or in the direction of gravity when you aren't moving, making for a challenging escape. The realistic physics are a great addition but, in an homage to AstroFire, there are also bonus levels where you must destroy asteroids and other space ships while in hyperspace, where there is no gravity and the screen becomes wraparound. Versions 2.0 and above have Win32-only installers but are still DOS games. There are 27 missions in this game, with only the first eight playable in the shareware version. Complete version history:
ORT Software has generously released this game as freeware.
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| Tetris 1986 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 9 | DOS Freeware (always) | Puzzle | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Vadim Gerasimov | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Elorg | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: ASCII 40×25×16c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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In June 1984, Alexey Pajitnov created Tetris on an Elektronika 60 while working for the Soviet Academy of Sciences at their Computer Center in Moscow with Dmitry Pavlovsky. Dmitry approached Vadim Gerasimov to create a DOS port, which he created in Turbo Pascal. The game spread like wildfire, and is now the best-selling game of all time. It is frequently listed as the best game of all time. In Tetris, there are seven sets of pieces, called tetrominoes because they are made of four blocks. They fall from the top of the screen and need to be stacked so that entire rows are filled with no gaps between them, at which point the complete rows disappear and the pieces above them drop by the same number of rows. When the board is filled, the game is over. The controls in the DOS version are a bit difficult at first, but the game is perfectly playable if you use the spacebar instead of "4" to drop pieces. Because the Soviet Union was a Communist nation, it is difficult to say whether or not the original DOS version of Tetris was ever distributed under any license other than freeware. Vadim Gerasimov has made the final version of his original DOS port, v3.12, available on his website as a free download. Tetris v3.12 Freeware (14k) Play online Vadim Gerasimov has generously made this game available for download.
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| Thor's Hammer 1995 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | 3D Shooter | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Escape Programming | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by MVP Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: VGA 320×200×256c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Thor's Hammer is basically a first-person shooter in the style of an RPG. Your character can walk, run, and strafe in any direction in a "flat" 3D environment like Wolfenstein 3D, battling enemies in real time, and there is no money or experience points. Nevertheless, you fight with an axe and cast magic spells, you can upgrade your weapons and armor, and your health and magic bars increase throughout the game. The combination works and it's quite a fun game, though a bit too easy. The dungeons are huge, though mostly devoid of enemies, so the game is more time consuming than difficult. Fortunately the game draws a map for you as you move through the levels. There are 3 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Episode I: The Trial
Escape Programming generously released the game as freeware on 16 July 2009.
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| Three 1997 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (always) | Puzzle | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Sverx | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Sverx | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: VGA 320×200×256c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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A pretty decent version of Columns. The help file is in Italian, but do you really need instructions? Columns of three colored pieces fall from the top of the screen, and the colors can be rotated as they fall. Get three or more pieces of the same color in any direction, and they are removed from the screen, causing all of the other pieces to fall and fill in any gaps. Three Freeware (397k)
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| Three Point Basketball Deluxe 1993 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Sports | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Dan Hilton | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by MVP Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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A humorous little game based on the three point shooting contest at the annual NBA All-Star Game. You compete against ABSA stars who have very similar names to real basketball stars. You use the mouse to control the power and angle of your shot as you shoot five balls from five positions before the time runs out. The final ball in each rack is worth two points, making 30 a perfect score. Five difficulty levels let you select how precise your shot needs to be, and the location of the target can change from shot to shot or a fixed location. There is a practice mode and a tournament mode that up to four humans can play against the computer. A fun little diversion. The Deluxe version has a lot more digitized voice, new graphics and twice as many ABSA stars. Three Point Basketball Deluxe Registered Version (2718k) Play online Author Dan Hilton has generously released this game as freeware.
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| Traffic Department 2192 1994 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 10 | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Shooter | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by P² Multimedia | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Safari Software (Epic MegaGames) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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As Lt. Velasquez, a pilot with the Traffic Department, you must take back the streets from the Vulture terrorist organization. You use a variety of vehicles to drive through the streets and shoot enemy vehicles as the Traffic Department finds itself mired ever deeper in a cosmic terrorist war. There are 3 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Episode Alpha: Process of Elimination
Developer John Pallett-Plowright generously released this game as freeware under the Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivs 3.0 License on 19 July 2007.
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| Trivia Whiz 1988 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Educational | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Micro F/X Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Apogee Software, Micro F/X Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: ASCII 80×40×16c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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A simple trivia game with questions on a large variety of topics, using the same engine as Next Generation Trivia. Bonus points are awarded for answering within the time limit. Trivia Whiz was developed by Micro F/X Software, before George Broussard merged his operations with Scott Miller's Apogee Software. Apogee took over distribution after Micro F/X ceased to be a separate company. Each volume has 100 multiple choice questions. There are 5 volumes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Trivia Whiz Registered Version (138k) Play online Apogee generously released this game as freeware under the Trivia Whiz Freeware License in December 2005.
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| Turbo 1987 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (always) | Racing | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Doug Ross | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Doug Ross | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: CGA 320×200×4c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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A simple CGA racing game that takes place on a road that has only one lane per direction of traffic. Generally speaking, you should try to drive on your own side of the road, and only enter the oncoming lane to pass. There are two gears and no brakes (though you can slow down by releasing the gas or shifting down to first gear). There's not much else to it, but it has the novelty of being one of the first racing games for the PC.
I have been unable to locate the author online, but there is a mailing address in the game. The game indicates that you can send the author $5 as a sign of gratitude, and to get a free copy of a game he was working on at the time. The implication is that the game is freeware.
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| Tyrian 2000 1995 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 10 | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Shooter | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Eclipse Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Epic MegaGames | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: VGA 320×200×256c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Originally published as Tyrian, this game is widely regarded as one of the best shooters ever. At the highest settings, Tyrian features amazing graphics and sounds, as well as voice. Many enemy ships, especially bosses, visibly take damage and break into smaller vehicles as pieces get destroyed, adding a real arcade feel to the game. The self-regenerating shields are especially helpful for aggressive players. You can collect money to buy upgrades for your ship, as well as pick up holographic data cubes that provide information or contribute to the story, or contain advertisements for fictional products. Even the advertisements provide some background information, and other characters contact you to keep you apprised of the situation. The story actually has depth and is not merely an afterthought to provide continuity to the levels. You can sometimes choose the levels you play by choosing a direction on the map screen, and there are secret bonus levels. Definitely recommended. Originally a trilogy, a new episode was added in version 2.0. A fifth episode was added to version 3.0, at which time the game was officially renamed Tyrian 2000. There are 5 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Episode 1 - Escape Tyrian 2000 v1.0 Shareware Episode (3920k) Author Jason Emery has generously released this game as freeware.
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| Velcro Mind 1995 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (always) | Simulation | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Jazz Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Jazz Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: VGA 320×240×256c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Using the mouse, you move a four-colored ball around the screen. The left and right mouse buttons rotate the ball left or right. Small, colored balls fly around the screen, and they will stick to your cursor if they hit the right color, otherwise they take away one hit point. Your cursor can collect any number of balls, but your goal is to eventually move the cursor over hands on the sides of the screen, each one representing one of the four colors, which will take the balls from your cursor and award points for them, which vary based on the color of the balls. Hit points can be restored by touching small galaxy-shaped spirals.
This game was originally released under a freeware license.
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| VGATetris 1991 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (always) | Puzzle | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Jared Tarbell | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Jared Tarbell | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: VGA 320×200×256c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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There have been thousands of Tetris games for DOS, but this is one of the better ones. The VGA palette allows for some nice colors for the pieces and backgrounds. There are also some cheats and Easter eggs in the game. There's not much in the way of sound, but the visuals are nice enough to keep the game interesting.
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| Wari: The Ancient Game of Africa 1994 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Traditional | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by ImagiSOFT | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by ImagiSOFT | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: EGA 640×350×16c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Wari is a "sowing game" known by names such as Oware and Ouri, and a variant of game known in the West as Mancala or Kalah. Played throughout Africa, Asia and the Caribbean for at least 1000 years, it is less known in the rest of the world than other great games of pure skill such as Chess, Checkers and Go. The board consists of a row of six pits for each player, and usually includes a larger pit called a "store" for each player to place their captured seeds. Gameplay is simple, with each player taking turns removing all of the seeds from one of his pits and distributing one seed at a time, counter-clockwise around the board, except for the pit that he drew from. If this causes two or three stones to be left in any of his opponent's pits, he captures them. Unlike Mancala, he does not sow seeds into his store, which eliminates strategic attempts to have one's turn end in his store to get an extra turn, and it prolongs the game because seeds are only removed from play when captured. The game is incredibly easy to learn, but can be played at a master level. Wari can be played by two humans, one player against the computer, or by two computers to watch and learn. Features very nice music. There are four difficulty levels in this game, with only the first three playable in the shareware version. The full version is now freeware, but it can't be distributed without permission, so you'll need to go to ImagiSOFT's website to download it.
ImagiSOFT has generously released this game as freeware, which can be downloaded from their website.
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| Word Whiz 1988 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Educational | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: ASCII 80×40×16c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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A program that teaches difficult and commonly misspelled words, using the same engine as Trek Trivia. There are 4 volumes in this game, with only the first volume playable in the shareware version. Each volume has 100 words. Word Whiz v3.0 Registered Version with source code in Turbo Pascal 5.0 (189k) Play online Apogee generously released this game as freeware under the Word Whiz Freeware License in December 2005.
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| Worm War 1990 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | Win16 Freeware (always) | Arcade | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Kirk Saathoff | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Kirk Saathoff | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Screenshot | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Worm War is a clone of Atari's popular 1980 arcade game, Centipede. Your goal is to shoot everything that moves, particularly a long centipede that moves through the level and break into smaller centipedes. Designed to run on a slow computer, game runs too quickly to be playable on a modern computer, even in an emulated environment like DOSBox, so it will be necessary to reduce the emulation speed to as little as 1% or use slowdown software. The author wisely released the game under a freeware license.
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| Xargon 1994 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 8.7 | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Platform | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Epic MegaGames | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Epic MegaGames | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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In Xargon you play Malvineous Havershim, an archaeologist who was studying ruins in Madagascar when a trap caused him to lose consciousness and wake up in a strange world ruled by the evil Xargon. Presumably this planet has very low gravity because you can jump very high and fall from great heights without injury. I question the ethics of the hero at times. He's an archaeologist visiting a new world and some of the creatures in the earlier levels seem to be minding their own business and merely defending their territory, but he gets points for killing them anyway. The monsters and power-ups are interesting, and the graphics are extremely detailed and shiny. The music sets the mood well, and there is a reasonable variety of voices. The difficulty level is lower than many platformers, reducing the frustration factor, and the game focuses on exploration and has many secret areas, which is exactly the way I like a game to be. The quality of the graphics, music and exploration remind me of Hocus Pocus. A score card or completion indicator to let you know when you've found everything would have been nice, but otherwise the game is quite enjoyable by any audience. There are 3 episodes in this game, with only the first episode playable in the shareware version. Episode 1: Beyond Reality Xargon v3.0 Registered Version (1357k) Author Allen Pilgrim generously released this game as freeware under the Kiloblaster and Xargon Freeware License on 4 August 2008.
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| Xenophage: Alien Bloodsport 1996 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 7 | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Fighting | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Argo Games | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Apogee Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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This fighting game has extremely impressive graphics and sound, for a DOS game. The game rips off a number of other games for "satirical purposes." The characters look like they're made of clay, and one of the songs in the soundtrack rips off the Mortal Kombat mix. The story is that the characters are fighting for the right to propagate, which is rough to say the least. Control one of 10 monsters and rip the other monsters a new one. The only Apogee game to ever be released as a public beta. Complete version history:
Argo Games generously released this game as freeware under the Xenophage Freeware License in April 2006.
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| Xerix 1992 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (always) | Shooter | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Brenden Reville (Twilight Software) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Brenden Reville (Twilight Software) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: VGA 320×200×256c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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A simple autoscrolling shooter by Brendan Reville before he started publishing games under the Twilight Software label. An alien spaceship is bombarding Earth with radiation, so an advanced fighter is sent to enter and destroy it. Inside the ship, a defense system made of thousands of ships and guns attempts to stop you. A single hit destroys your ship, which is a concept that I've never been fond of. Fortunately a Novice difficulty level was added to v1.3 which gives you infinite lives. You'll need them! Complete version history:
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| Xerix II: The Caverns of Mars 1994 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Shooter | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Twilight Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Twilight Software | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Three years after the events of Xerix, Earth and its colonies is again attacked by aliens. The alien ships come in waves, and blindly move about in patterns, including the bosses, so the enemy isn't exactly intelligent. They make up for that in numbers. There are a lot of weapon upgrades which, unfortunately, don't carry from one level to the next. A very long story is told before each level which, fortunately, can be skipped. The graphics are layered, with a foreground (a layer closer than the ship) as well as a background layer. The greatest strength of this game is the excellent soundtrack, which varies from techno to African tribal music with very convincing wind instruments. This is a challenging game, so fortunately there are three difficulty levels. There are 12 levels in this game, with only the first 6 playable in the shareware version.
Author Brandon Reville has generously released this game as freeware.
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| Xmas Lemmings: 1991 Christmas Edition 1991 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 2 | DOS Freeware (always) | Puzzle | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by DMA Design | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Psygnosis | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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In 1991, DMA Design released a "1991 Christmas Edition" of Lemmings – called Xmas Lemmings on the title screen – in which the lemmings are dressed like Santa Claus, and Christmas music plays in the background. Lemmings are little guys with green hair who walk in a straight line until they bump into something or die, usually by falling off a cliff. Lemmings can be assigned tasks to perform from one of eight modes: climber, floater, blocker, builder, basher, miner, digger, and exploder. Players must use these modes to guide a required percentage of their lemmings to the exit, overcoming barriers, falls, and traps, all within a time limit. Lemmings splatter if they fall too far, get crushed, juiced, or decapitated by traps, and can blow themselves to bits, individually or en masse, in hilariously gruesome detail, which is a favorite feature of many players, and lessens the frustration of failure. Advanced problem solving and reflexes are necessary to save the lemmings. The 1991 edition features four levels: two original levels and two levels from Oh No! More Lemmings. Xmas Lemmings: 1991 Christmas Edition Freeware (223k) Play online DMA Design originally released this game under a freeware license.
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| Xmas Lemmings: 1992 Holiday Edition 1992 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: No rating | DOS Freeware (always) | Puzzle | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by DMA Design | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Psygnosis | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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In 1992, DMA Design released a "1992 Holiday Edition" of Lemmings – still called Xmas Lemmings on the title screen – in which the lemmings are dressed like Santa Claus, and Christmas music plays in the background. Lemmings are little guys with green hair who walk in a straight line until they bump into something or die, usually by falling off a cliff. Lemmings can be assigned tasks to perform from one of eight modes: climber, floater, blocker, builder, basher, miner, digger, and exploder. Players must use these modes to guide a required percentage of their lemmings to the exit, overcoming barriers, falls, and traps, all within a time limit. Lemmings splatter if they fall too far, get crushed, juiced, or decapitated by traps, and can blow themselves to bits, individually or en masse, in hilariously gruesome detail, which is a favorite feature of many players, and lessens the frustration of failure. Advanced problem solving and reflexes are necessary to save the lemmings. The 1992 edition features four original levels. Xmas Lemmings: 1992 Holiday Edition Freeware (160k) Play online DMA Design originally released this game under a freeware license.
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| ZZT 1991 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| User rating: 10 | DOS Freeware (former shareware) | Adventure | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Developed by Epic MegaGames | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Published by Epic MegaGames | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Graphics: ASCII 80×40×16c | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Tim Sweeney's famous first game, published by Potomac Computer Systems until v3.2, when it was renamed Epic MegaGames. ZZT is an ASCII adventure along the lines of the famous Kroz series. The hero can move from screen to screen, fighting monsters and collecting treasures as he goes. Torches are necessary to see in dark rooms such as caves, and keys are needed to open passages to some areas. ZZT is known for clever level design and use of the 16 color palette, and also uses the PC speaker to create music more effectively than most games of this era. The game also came with a level editor, inspiring thousands of user-created levels. There is still a fan following for this game even today. Epic released the full version of this game as freeware on their website in 1997, but Epic Classics is still selling it on their website. I am asking the author whether or not it is still legal to distribute the full version. There are 4 volumes in this game, with only the first volume playable in the shareware version. Volume 1: Town of ZZT ZZT v3.2 Registered Version (176k) Play online Epic MegaGames generously released this game as freeware under the ZZT Freeware License. It is also still sold through www.epicclassics.com for $12 on floppy disk only.
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