One of the real joys of being at GDC is seeing the independent stuff. These small teams of talented, motivated guys
and gals gather together once a year to enjoy a forum where they can see their stuff shine. The lineup at 2005's
independent games booths is formidable. You have turn-based strategy games, shoot 'em ups, puzzle games, racers, you
name it. And the stuff, at first glance, looks excellent. I won't be able to write up all of it, but I plan on giving a
few of the games some attention. They deserve it.
The first game I think you should check out is a strategy/puzzle title called Squirrel Squabble. The premise is
similar to tic-tac-toe, with violence thrown in for good measure. You play a squirrel who runs around the screen
picking up food that pops up randomly. The food can be placed in a tic-tac-toe-like board at the bottom of the screen.
Or you can throw it at your opponent to slow him down. It's as simple as that, and that's where the charm is. It takes
a couple of minutes to get the controls down pat, and a couple more minutes to get addicted.
The art is endearing, the pace is fast and the price is right. Check it out.
