Serious Sam Demo
With so many big name developers out there and the cost of developing a major game often reaching US $3-4 Million, it's rare we come across an unknown developer on track to make a mark on the industry.  One such developer is CroTeam, based in Croatia, a small company which on Croatian Independence Day, May 30^th, released the test version of its new first person shooter, Serious Sam.

While the game had virtually no awareness before the test was released, word slowly spread around the Internet about this remarkable work of achievement with a 3D engine that rivals id and Epic's.  With huge outdoor levels, whimsical enemies, and tight controls, many have compared the Serious Sam test to the frenetic gameplay style of Doom.

While Serious Sam certainly isn't an epic single player game with a rich story or copious dialogue, it's the kind of game that is proud to embrace its simple focus on action.  The result is a game that has a clear purpose and is in many ways satisfying to play because of its massive levels and fun play mechanic.

If you haven't heard of this game or have yet to download the test version (available here), I would urge you to at least take a look at it.  If anything, it proves that small developers do still have a shot at leaving a lasting footprint on the gaming community.