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Top Online Game Trends of the Decade

To say online gaming has seen explosive growth in the last ten years is an understatement, and it has taken some unexpected turns along the way. Here's a look at what I would consider the key trends that have changed this hobby in the last decade.

Further Reading

Dave's Internet Games Blog

Penguinz

Monday December 21, 2009
Penguinz Screenshot Penguins are Christmasy, right? They live on the North, er... in a cold climate. Okay, maybe not so much, and these Penguinz are beating the crap out of each other, which doesn't really capture the spirit of the season either. That doesn't make blasting enemy penguins and eskimoes with your AK-47 any less fun. Why the penguins are attacking you, another penguin, we'll never know, but it's clearly us or them in this free side-scrolling shooter. Gather money to upgrade your weapons between levels so that you can really dish out some carnage.

Crysis Wars Holiday Trial

Saturday December 19, 2009
If you need an online shooter fix this Christmas, the folks at Crytek are offering another free trial of Crysis Wars. I think this is the longest trial they've had yet, running from December 19 until December 29, giving you plenty of time to play over the holiday season. They're also having a screenshot contest with 100 full Crysis Wars keys up for grabs. Instructions on downloading the client and patch 1.5, and getting a trial key are available on the official site.

Final Fantasy XIV Beta Sign-ups

Friday December 18, 2009
Square Enix is now accepting applications for beta testing of Final Fantasy XIV, the sequel to Final Fantasy XI. It will have different playable races and an all new Armory System that should allow more flexible character progression. The beta is for the Windows version of the game only, and you can sign-up on the official site.

Fallen Earth Free Trial

Tuesday December 15, 2009
Apocalyptic MMORPG Fallen Earth is offering a 10-day free trial of the game as well as 20 percent off the price for a limited time. Fallen Earth is set in the Grand Canyon in the year 2156, and humankind is under threat from mutated beasts, gangs of raiders, and factional warfare. Here's a bit from the press release: "The free trial and promotional discount are just in time for the holidays and coincide with Fallen Earth's in-game holiday celebration, 'First Night,' where players have the option to participate in special holiday missions to receive festive items such as Mistletoe, Eggnog and Gift Boxes."

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