Valerie

15 Minutes

If you're a big fan of Jack Bauer and his exploits, then you might want to try out 15 Minutes. This cool game is a humorous take on the hit action TV show, 24. The game was created by Tim Hengeveld, an animator, storyteller, game developer and artist all in one. It was created especially for the MAGS monthly AGS competition. The competition is open to all amateur game developers. Participants have to create a game under one month and following the rules set by the previous winner of the competition. Even though the game is a bit short, it's certainly entertaining and lots of fun. Check it out.

The Matt Kurz One: Debt Sounds

One man band, Matt Kurz, knows how keep the drums on a steady beat, the guitars wailing and the bass guitar slappin'. He also knows how to add his signature growl and keep everything interesting. Perhaps the biggest draw is that this guy can actually play all these instruments at once! Debt Sounds is the first album from this multi-intrumentalist/one-man-band who dubs himself, The Matt Kurz One. It's a mix of old school rock and roll with some upbeat indie hipster feel. Each track is quite catchy, making you want to head bob or tap your feet. The record is available as a free download at Quote Unquote Records and it's licensed under creative commons. Give it a listen.

MyPaint

If you're an artist and you're looking for a program that will allow you to paint and create your artwork without any problems, then give MyPaint a try. This handy software was especially created with the painter in mind. Featuring a simple, bare bones layout and tons of brushes emulating specific types of media; the software ensures artists can easily get down to business without the hassle. It was made especially for digital painters in mind. The program is an open sourced project that's available for free download on Mac, Windows and Linux.

By the Power of Money

By The Power of Money is not exactly a game, per se, but more of like an economic exercise. This interesting 2D platformer is different but surprisingly fun as well. It's a bit challenging and takes time to get used to. However, ultimately, once you get a handle of the gameplay and the rules, it's quite entertaining. In the game, your goal is to rebuild a stage as you play. You'll need to buy and lay down blocks, each one having its own unique property, but you need to do all this within your budget. The game is not just enjoyable but also tests your budgeting skills. Give it a go.

Daniel Wyckoff: The Quadrature

The Quadrature by Daniel Wyckoff is an acoustic instrumental progressive haven. It's not everyday that we cover instrumentals here in Frostclick, so here's one to feast your ears on. Daniel Wyckoff is a guitar aficionado that has just released his second record of nothing but sweet acoustic guitar goodness for free. His second album, A Shift, is available as a free download on Jamendo. Before that though, he released The Quadrature which feature a lite-prog and math rock sound. The recording quality isn't perfect but you have to admire this guy's skill and what he can do with his guitar.

Picturenaut

Tired of having your digital pictures fall short of what you are trying to capture? Give Picturenaut a try. The program is ideal for tweaking your HDR images and making them look even better. The program is available for a free download so you won't have to shell out any cash to obtain great results for your pictures. The software is perfect for achieving a realistic HDR image. It's easy to use and you can get your images in practically seconds. Developed by March Mehl, it's definitely a helpful piece of software for HDR photography enthusiasts out there.

Lenin/McCarthy: ART

If the name didn't capture your attention first, then maybe their music will make a better impression. Lenin/McCarthy and their latest record, titled ART; combine amusing song titles with equally entertaining sounds. Listening to the band is like a form of release. There's the hardcore guitar licks, the loud drumming, the slightly low key, yet growly vocals and the overall catchiness of the tracks. It's like partying and rocking out with your favorite band while they play one feet away from you in a cramped room. These OZ natives are sure to give you enough of a good time that you'll be wondering when again will you be stuck in a tight, cramped room with a rock band.

Questling

One of the finalists for Ludum Dare 20; Questling is an interesting puzzle game that will certainly give you a good challenge. The gameplay is similar to that of Psygnosis' iconic game, Lemmings. As mentioned, the game was designed as an entry for the Ludum Dare 20 Game Development competition. The tournament is aimed at urging indie game makers to create and develop a game in roughly 48 hours only. Each tournament has a theme that developers must follow and exhibit in their finished work. The game is available for free download right on the Ludum Dare website. The updated version that incorporates the soundtrack is also there.

EllusBellus: Sticks, Stones & My Bones

Combining folk, acoustic and pop in a beautiful, melodic album takes a lot. However, EllusBellus manages to breeze through it without much trouble. The Chicago duo have been around for a couple of years; carefully crafting their brand of fun, folk pop music that brings to mind wonderful summertime afternoons. Sticks, Stones & My Bones is their latest offering. It features 6 tracks that range from slow, melodic goodness to upbeat and fun pop beats. It's one of those records you could play as a summer soundtrack as you frolic on the beach with friends, go biking around the neighborhood or simply relax in the park.