HTML5 signifies the evolution of markup language as we know it. Adding a range of new tags, multimedia capabilities and removing the need for many proprietary plugins, it is easy to understand how HTML5 is seen as a big step forward in web development.
Flash games were once the norm when it came to browser-based entertainment, but now thanks to the powerful nature of HTML5 many web applications, streaming services and games are taking advantage of the new bells and whistles.
You'll need a HTML5 compliant browser to join in, all of these HTML5 games have been tested with the latest stable Google Chrome on Ubuntu 10.10. Other HTML5 compliant browsers include Safari, Firefox and Internet Explorer 9.
Canvas Rider
Blatantly inspired by the classic Line Rider, Canvas Rider allows users to create, share and ride user-generated tracks. If you've ever played a physics-based bike game (think Trials, or the more recent Trials HD) then the concept will be very familiar.
As a biker you must reach the end of the level, which is considerably easier said than done. Careful use of throttle and lean controls will help maintain your rider's position on the bike, and when you're sick of being thrown off all the time you can have a go at creating your own level.
There are hundreds of other users' creations which can be easily filtered by popularity to reveal some beautifully-crafted levels. Chrome users can install an extension for quick access to Canvas Rider.
VII [No Longer Available]
VII transforms your whole browser window into a monochrome platform world, with smooth animations, physics and responsive controls. Using both the mouse and keyboard you must navigate, manipulate and clear each screen before progressing.
Your telekinesis can be used to move or surf objects and solve thought-provoking puzzles and predicaments. The quirky art style and character (who vaguely resembles Roger from American Dad) plods along at a sombre pace, allowing you to take in all the HTML5 goodness along the way.
Technically brilliant, graphically pleasing and completely free; VII is a great little introduction to the world of browser-borne platform games.
BoredBoredBored
Whilst VII takes on a more relaxed pace, BoredBoredBored employs a different approach – frantic, death-defying arcade action. Using the arrow keys and your space bar, you (quite literally a dot) must avoid incoming enemy fire whilst propelling yourself into waves of oncoming enemies.
Your only method of attack is accessed via the space bar, the longer you charge your shot; the greater your area of effect.
At the end of the game you will be given a breakdown of how terrible you are, that is unless you make it to the final wave. BoredBoredBored is a fine example of how HTML5 can be used to create an incredibly fast-paced arcade game that can run natively in a browser window.
Sand Trap
Instead of taking advantage of one of the many physics engines for the Flash or Java platform, Sand Trap uses its own built-from-scratch HTML5 effort in this addictive puzzler. Each level contains a maze, and within that maze is a small amount of sand. By rotating the maze, it is your task to syphon the sand into the bucket.
Playing on its simple nature, Sand Trap soon becomes complex and very addictive; especially if you have a soft spot for physics games. This game would probably be even better with a touch interface, if you're lucky enough to have a tablet PC or similar.
FreeCiv
Civilization in your browser – need I say more? For those of you who do remember the original Civ, FreeCiv is a faithful representation of the Sid Meyer classic that stole so much sleep from those who played it.
Those that don't are in for a treat! Don't let the flat, dated graphics distract you, in Civ the whole world is your oyster. You must explore, settle, trade, mine and generally build a turn-based empire from the comfort of your browser. There's a tutorial to get you up to speed, and scenarios to play through if you wish.
The option to play against AI or other human players is yours, and you can fully customize your games beforehand. Bye-bye spare time!
The Rest
There were a few games that didn't quite make the main list but distracted me long enough to warrant a mention, and these were:
Torus
A nifty take on Tetris, replacing the usual 2D interface with a fully 3D hollow sphere.
Pirates Love Daisies
A delightful HTML5 tower defence game that gives some of the premium efforts out there a run for their money.
JSLander
A faithful Lunar Lander clone coded in HTML5 and JavaScript.
Hint: you'll need a Y velocity below 6 not to crash and below 3 for the perfect landing.
World's Biggest Pac-Man
An awesome selection of custom Pac-Man levels, all linked together. Bored of your current maze? Exit and seamlessly join the next!
Conclusion
If you've not upgraded to a HTML5 compliant browser yet, you're probably missing out on the web's hottest new tricks. As a Linux user, constant Adobe Flash crashes, glitches and sluggish behaviour is to be expected on my system. Not once whilst testing any of the games in this article did my PC flinch.
There are some things online that only Flash can do... for everything else there's HTML5.
Any HTML5 games that tickle your fancy? Which browser do you use? Have your say in the comments below.