Tiny Pacman

This is just plain weird, but as a classic gaming fan I can't help but be impressed by the simplicity. An entire site in 18x18 pixels. It has links, search, and primarily, a large collection of games.

Seeing games still functional on such a scale made me wonder if something similar on a slightly larger scale would make a good banner replacement. Plenty of banner advertisers use simple point and click games to grab attention, but how about a low key banner that contained a top quality playable game? Aside from it being genuinely fun to play, my requirements would be that the inactive color scheme be customizable, that it not be heavily animated until the user chooses to use it, and that it look subtle enough to fit with most site designs (anything in the style of Tony Pa would be great). If it was linked to an affiliate program (maybe for a gaming portal?), that would be cool, but for me that wouldn't be necessary if it provided an entertaining alternative to adverts.

Not too long ago Ian Landsman proposed a Micro ISV community marketing network, maybe something like this combined with rotating links to members sites would be a good idea. The fun element might help the banner spread.

Back on topic, the main reason I decided to start this blog entry was because deep inside the 18x18 site I found a link to Rory Hamilton's Everything I Know. Aside from looking good, it has some nice articles on design with a definite Micro ISV getting started/getting things done slant.

In other unrelated news...

In case you missed it elsewhere: Ontime's small team issue tracking software (up to five users) is available for a $5 donation to the Red Cross, until 24th February. Normal price is $495, although the single user version is always free. Thanks to Dennis via JoS.

Tags: links micro isv flash games bug tracking software marketing