I went to Costco today for lunch with some friends. While walking around looking for free food samples, we came across a $2000 machine that has hundreds of classic video games. I found an old favorite in the list, Qix. I used to play a lot of Qix. Like all great games of the eighties, it's simple in concept but brilliantly executed. It's available in all the usual places (like MAME) if you want to play. I also found a fun Java-based modern adaptation, XiQ.

This is an addictive little hand-eye coordination game: Escapa!

According to Mike, who sent it to me: "Reportedly, the US Air Force uses this for fighter pilots. They are expected to go for at least 2 minutes."

I can last about 21 seconds so far :-)