Playing Retro Web Games in HTML5 with Phoboslab

Dear readers, today I want to talk to you about a game development studio that is doing truly impressive things: Phoboslab. This independent studio, founded by Dominic Szablewski, offers us fun, retro, old-school games that you can play directly in your favorite web browser.

Phoboslab specializes in retro games with pixelated graphics that we all love, bringing back the nostalgic vibe of the 80s and 90s. Szablewski even developed his own JavaScript framework called Impact, which makes it easy to create web games.

Their biggest hit to date is the excellent Biolab Disaster, a platform and action game with weapons, monsters, and a fantastic soundtrack. What’s amazing about Phoboslab is that their games run entirely in HTML5, JavaScript, and WebGL. There’s no need for any plugins—just a modern browser that follows the latest standards. You can play on PC, Mac, mobile devices, and tablets without installing anything.

Their website offers a selection of free and open-source games made with Impact or their custom WebGL engine. You’ll find fast-paced shoot-’em-ups like X-Type, Tetris-like games such as Z-Type, where you type words to destroy enemies (perfect for the office), RTS games like Voidcall, reminiscent of Command & Conquer, and old-school FPS games like Xibalba or a 13kb version of Quake. There’s something for everyone.

I highly recommend trying their games—you’re going to love them. Sure, we’re not talking about cutting-edge 3D blockbusters here, but for a quick break during your coffee pause, they’re perfect.

Some of their standout games include: