Flash games are interactive media created for online and mobile applications using the Adobe-owned, Macromedia-developed Flash software. Originally developed as an animation program, programmers and artists began using Flash to create interactive games using its proprietary ActionScript code.

Flash games range from action/adventure, role-playing, simulations, 2D side-scrollers, and puzzle games, to 3D first-person shooters and massive multiplayer (MMOs). There are tens of thousands of games available across the web, and the applications are boundless for developers. With free online Flash games and even online casino gaming, players are able to enjoy a plethora of unique titles, many with professional production values; solid graphics and sound, engaging storylines and gameplay, simple interfaces, and high replay value. Many of the Flash games are based on popular existing titles as well, and are as addictive as their console, arcade, and PC counterparts.

Flash game developers have also enjoyed critical acclaim and for some, their creations have opened doors of opportunity into the realm of professional game development. Many next-generation developers now utilize Flash components to design user interfaces, as the ActionScript performs well and keeps file sizes to a minimum. This is especially useful when developing a content-heavy game with highly-detailed, fully-rendered 3D objects. It is also compatible with many of the other scripting languages.

These days, as more consumers are spending more time online and on their mobile peripherals, Flash games are easily accessible, addictive, and cheap--usually free. With many of the games being available for free downloads and/or instant play, how do many of these developers make any money from their product to cover their development? Ad revenues make up a majority of a game's or Flash game's site's income. Who ever said video games rot your brain?

New media calls for new marketing tactics, many of which have employed the creation of Flash games to produce effective viral campaigns for products and services from around the globe. Some companies even utilize quirky Flash games to promote their brand on the web or through mobile ads, and this is only the beginning of such content creation and implementation. As new media developers and the technology progress, Flash games will only become accessible. From the casual to the hardcore gamer, developers will continue to utilize this powerful gaming tool to create more expansive and integral forms of cross-platform entertainment. The possibilities are boundless depending on the teams behind these games.