Since it's release in 2003 this gaming platform has become the standard for a gaming media hub in my opinion. They have attracted many publishers so far and in time, with already 15 million users on Steam, I'm certain more will follow. PopCap Games, THQ, 2K Games, Activision, Capcom, Codemasters, Eidos Interactive, Firaxis Games, id Software, Ritual Entertainment, Rockstar Games, Sega, Take-Two Interactive and Epic Games are all onboard. This is a far cry from the original service that launched so miserably with Half-life 2.
Steam Community and Steamworks have also been released somewhat recently. Steam Community brought a friend system somewhat similar to the Xbox 360 LIVE service. Instant messaging, game invites, the ability to see what games your friends are currently playing...etc. Steamworks is a development and publishing tool allowing developers to use auto-updating, game statistics, multiplayer capabilities with voice chat, access to the Steam Community and achievement thingies similar to Xbox LIVE which are becoming the bane of gaming. It certainly must be tempting for small, independent developers to try their hand at it. Dylan Fitterer has Steam and Steamworks to thank for Audiosurf's excellent sales.
So I just thought I'd make a thread to share my personal favourites from the service that you may have overlooked or to listen to some more suggestions.
Everyday Shooter - $10
A game originally released on PSN on the Playstation 3 not too long ago. It would be all too easy to overlook this game for what it's title suggests. Although the basic mechanics are the same as other similar shooters the joy in this game comes from the music which actually engages the player and sucks them into the experience. The only downside for me is that it's very hard.
Sam & Max Season 1 - $9 each, $27 for all six episodes
Point and Click game's glory years are behind them for sure but if you were a fan of the genre then you certainly get your moneys worth. The dialogue is not as witty or as funny as the original game but I was satisfied. Good voice acting, puzzles and visuals. I have yet to play Season 2.
Trackmania United Forever - $40
Simplified driving game built around community features and a track editor. Short, interesting tracks, simple controls designed for keyboards, fun in a realistic unrealistic way. I've found it to be very addictive. If you don't want to fork out the cash then you can always download the free version of the game Trackmania Nations Forever which is also available on Steam.
Audiosurf - $10
I find it hard to review this game (Spent too long on this thread already). You listen to your music I am sure. Buy this and play your music as well.
Geometry Wars - $4
This game has been available for a while now but if you've never experienced it then $4 is far too good an offer to pass up on. Like Everyday Shooter it's a basic dual analogue shooter that works fine with the keys. Very challenging, very pretty and very addictive.
Although Peggle should come with a "Addictive as Crack" warning sticker.
