Getting gamers to wrap their heads around the idea of Web-browser-based games that don't involve Adobe Flash or exploding penguins has been a significant challenge for GarageGames. However, that is exactly what the Eugene, Oregon-based indie stalwart has set out to do with InstantAction, an online gaming portal that promises fully 3D, near-console-quality games that are both easily accessible and quickly disseminated.

　　Now, GarageGames is ready to let InstantAction speak for itself. The developer announced this week that the service has entered an open beta-testing period. Currently, the service has four games on offer: GarageGames' own MarbleBlast Online and Think Tanks, as well as Frozen Codebase's Screwjumper, and Wideload Shorts' Cyclomite. More games are slated to be added to the beta in the coming weeks, including Fallen Empire: Legions, a spiritual successor of sorts to Dynamix's revolutionary Starsiege Tribes.

　　As noted by GarageGames CEO Josh Williams in an interview with GameSpot, InstantAction is powered by technology that enables the developer's proprietary Torque engine or any other game engine to work in a Web browser. In addition to high-quality gaming, the service offers a suite of usability features including leaderboards, friends lists, and stat tracking, and gamers will be able to invite friends to join their games simply by passing on a URL link through e-mail or an instant messenger service.

　　For more on InstantAction or to sign up for the open beta, head over the service's official Web site. GarageGames expects to be fully operational within the next month.