An indie-style arcade you can play in a browser tab.

BrainBreak is a free arcade of original retro-style games: bullet-hell boss fights, a sword-and-dragon platformer, arcade classics and pixel puzzles. No download, no account, and everything runs in your browser — on desktop or phone.

Why BrainBreak exists

Browser games used to be throwaway. BrainBreak is an attempt at the opposite: small games with a real idea in them, the kind of tough-but-fair, pattern-learning design that indie developers are known for. The headline act is boss fights — a bullet-hell shooter, a one-room sword-and-dragon platformer and a space shooter that ends with a mothership — backed up by arcade classics like brick breaking, snake and a maze chase, and a shelf of pixel puzzles for a calmer break.

How the games are made

Every game, sprite, level and boss on this site is original and written for BrainBreak. The pixel art is drawn in code, the chiptune-style sound effects are synthesised live with the Web Audio API, and the games run on a small fixed-timestep engine, so there are no heavy downloads and no audio files. Scores and streaks are stored privately in your own browser.

Common questions

Who runs BrainBreak?

BrainBreak is operated by Codeloop Ltd. You can reach out any time through the Contact page.

Is BrainBreak free to use?

Yes — every category and game is free, with no signup, account, or app required.

Can I suggest a game or a boss?

Yes — suggestions are always welcome through the Contact page.