Games.com's Best of 2012: Browser Game of the Year

This year has been more than kind to consoles for both the core and family gamer alike, but 2012 also saw developers finally tap into the power of the browser. Game makers have at last realized that the web browser can be used to great comedic, impressive and addicting effect. With the help of some of our buds, we look at the best browser games of 2012.

Super House of Dead Ninjas

Developer Megadev created something special with this Adult Swim-hosted browser game. It's more than a throwback to ultra-difficult, retro arcade and console games. This is a sequel to an already impressive browser beat-em-up with spot-on controls and visuals that push sprite-style graphics to their limits.

Dikembe Mutombo's 4 ½ Weeks to Save the World

With an indie game star (and Canabalt creator) like Adam Saltsman, even an Old Spice marketing stunt can make for one helluva browser game. Featuring some of the best writing in video games this year period, Dikembe Mutombo's 4 ½ Weeks amazed players with a new mini game to master each week--a fine example of branded games done right.

Burrito Bison Revenge

Essentially the Jetpack Joyride of 2012, Juicy Beast's sequel to its hit endless runner (bouncer?) only ramped up the hook with more stylish and goofy content than ever. Burrito Bison's second venture into Candy Land is addictive for the same reasons as other games of its ilk, namely the endless promise of progress. The fact that it's a downright riot only helps.

Doctor Who: Worlds in Time

This browser-based MMO by Three Rings Design took a well-loved brand and transformed it into an experience engaging for long-time gamers and approachable for fans of the sci-fi series. The puzzle-packed play of DW:WIT tests player skill in a way that embodies the nature of the show, coupled with adorable art design and plenty of social hooks. Yet another licensed game achievement.

Arcane Legends

Spacetime Studios' fourth release is the culmination of its Legends series of cross-platform MMOs, providing a story-heavy, action-packed adventure. It's certainly not the first full-3D MMO playable in your browser, but with its seamless cross-platform play between Google Chrome, Android and iOS, it's undoubtedly the best of this year. And that impressive feat (and stellar fantasy gameplay) makes this Games.com's best browser game of 2012.

Michael Fahey, Mobile/Social Editor	John Benyamine, Publisher	Kelly Karnetsky, Editor	Ludwig Kietzmann, Editor in Chief

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