Maybe you’re on a break and looking for a quick distraction, or perhaps you’re just in need of a brief escape to fill a spare 20 minutes. That’s where short games really shine. These compact experiences are designed to be completed in one go. Some might challenge you with puzzles, while others might simply offer an intriguing narrative or a unique concept. The possibilities are endless.
Players who enjoy gaming know the joy of squeezing a full experience into a short time frame. Sure, diving deep into a massive RPG for hundreds of hours can be thrilling, but there’s an undeniable charm in games that deliver impactful experiences in just a few minutes. What’s even better is that many of these gems are free to play.
Of course, this article can’t possibly cover every fantastic short game out there. Both Steam and Itch.io are teeming with these little masterpieces. If what you find here strikes a chord, why not embark on a short-game spree? Here, I’ve handpicked a selection of top-notch games, all under 30 minutes, that are bound to leave a lasting impression.