Flash Gaming is making a comeback after Adobe's shutdown over 3 years ago.
Flash games are once again playable in browsers.
New Flash games are becoming viable.
Flash as a Development Tool
Common sentiment: Flash is excellent for prototyping new games.
While limited for large projects, it excels for simple game ideas.
Preservation of Flash Games
**Three Major Preservation Efforts:
**1. Community Archives: Massive efforts like BlueMaxima's Flashpoint.
**2. Repackaging for Steam: Enhanced and repackaged games are common.
**3. Emulation: Ruffle, a free open-source emulation, is crucial.
Ruffle Emulation
Led by Mike Welsh from Newgrounds.
Integrated into many sites, Internet Archive for long-term access.
Has made significant progress in supporting Flash games.
Flashforward Game Jam: Encourages new Flash games compatible with Ruffle.
Started by the Newgrounds community.
Shows the growth and support for Flash games.
Flashforward Game Jam Highlights
Annual event, significant growth and participation.
Showcases experimental and innovative Flash games.
Noteworthy Flash Games and Developers
Gorgon Shield: Developed by Oliver Joyce and published by Two Left Thumbs. Available on Steam.
Party-based RPG.
Encourages feedback and wishlist additions.
Game Jam Entries: Personal favorites and honorable mentions:
Kill Max: Issues with interactivity but stands out.
Smooch Grounds: Targeted for younger audiences.
Steamboat Willie: Legal parody, design reminiscent of Seth MacFarlane.
Riddle School: Known for humorous content.
Top 10 Flashforward 2024 Games
Survivalist by Emerald Elias: Classic Flash style, simple but engaging.
Quing vs. Cyber Devil: Simple fighting game with a unique premise.
Shadow Gauntlets by Vic Biss: Innovative mechanics but challenging.
Deeply Lost by Alejandro X. AUL: Puzzle game with unique art style.
Windows XP 2012 Edition by Columbo: Humorous Windows parody.
Lerin by Vom: Puzzle adventure with cool lighting effects.
Skeleton Day by Team Tago: Odd, humorous game with a pseudo Game Boy style.
Lost Host Adoras by Guy Anger: Simple and entertaining mechanics.
Homecoming by Garden Green: Emotional visual novel with compelling narrative.
Dwarf Planet 1 by Mrock: Highly polished, engaging mechanics, best of Flashforward 2024.
Conclusion
Flash gaming is experiencing a renaissance.
Ruffle emulation is critical to preservation and accessibility.
Flash development is still vibrant, with a supportive community.
Encouragement to participate in Flash gaming and development.
Promoting Gorgon Shield on Steam and upcoming developer interviews.