Windows (PC)

Software for Windows Desktop Devices

Dusty

If you ever wondered how smoke behaves during any particular scenario, then you could definitely benefit from having Dusty in your computer. Now, I know you're probably scratching your head and asking yourself, "what do I need a smoke simulator for?" Well, for one, it's helpful if you're an animator, game developer or artist and you want to realistically portray how smoke would flow when a fire is lit up. The program is available for download on Windows but there's also a Mac version. The algorithm is based on the Stable Fluids Algorithm created by Jos Stam. If you're interested, you can hit the download link above the image to get this cool software.

K-3D

Modelling in 3D has never been simpler thanks to K-3D. This amazing software is a free program that'll help you render and create 3D masterpieces. The program incorporates various helpful plugins as well as "visualization pipeline architecture" to help users create stunning 3D images. It was developed by Timothy Shead and released just last April 2010. So far, it's been winning a lot of critics thanks to its useful interface and easy to use tools. It's designed for use by professional artists but even those that are still getting a feel for 3D rendering can easily use it. K-3D is available as available for free download and licensed under a GNU General Public License.

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.

Shotgun FunFun

With doomsday theorists saying we might have a potential zombie attack to fight off during the end of days, it's always best to stay prepared. Shotgun FunFun can help you out with that. This cool game puts you in a scenario where you're trapped in an industrial looking place with 100,000 zombies ready to eat your brains. Oh, and you have unlimited shotgun shells at your disposal so you can blast your way through hordes of the undead. Originally available for download on the PC, the game is now offered absolutely free from the Mac App Store. Now you can tune in and blast your way through a zombie feast. Give the game a download and see how far you can keep Buck Morris alive.

Ranger

Ranger is the latest game released by Netherland-based developing outfit, Foppygames. This one is another fun adventure platformer where you get to play a pilot on a reconnaissance mission against hostile and unfriendly aliens. You'll need to navigate yourself through the many doors, looking for the hostages and rescuing them. At the same time, you'll need to defend yourself against the feisty aliens out to get you. This game was created using Blitz 3D. There are also several other freeware games offered by the developer on his site so after you're satisfied with saving all the hostages as well as killing all the alien kidnappers in this one, go ahead and check out the others as well. Cool game that's worth your time.

Star Opus: Episode I “Pathway to the Pollux”

Dubbed as the "real mother of all retro games," Star Opus I takes retro shooting to a whole new level. The game induces some hardcore Asteroids style of gameplay along with some lovely, lovely tunes to go along with it. Star Opus I is essentially a one-man project. The first episode is currently released as a freeware and so will Episode II, which is currently under construction. However, it seems to be set for a commercial release later on. Let's just hope this doesn't come soon enough. For the meantime, grab this download from their website or simply hit the Download Game link. It's perfect if you just want to get away for awhile, head to space and shoot some asteroids.

PhotoRocket

You might think that PhotoRocket is just another photosharing program but there's actually quite a few features you might find charming in this cool app. Apart from the fact that it's offered absolutely free, there are a couple of things that makes this one slightly different from all the rest. Aiming to be the easiest program you'll ever use when it comes to photosharing, PhotoRocket actually works great. It lets users easily share photos without much hassle. It provides an easy to use interface that's simple to navigate even for non-techie users. Give the program a try. This might be the photosharing program you've been waiting for.

The Unarchiver

From the get-go, it's obvious what The Unarchiver does. It can easily unzip or unpack any files that you want. Even though the program might have an unimaginative name, it gets the job done without much trouble and complaint. The program was developed by Dag Agren and available for free download on the Mac App Store. It works great on Mac but it's also possible to run it on Windows or Linux. You just have to follow a few things before you can get it up and running. It's a nifty little tool that's easy to navigate and understand. Best of all, you can easily open any file you have since it supports a great selection of formats. Give it a try.