http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/programmes/click_online/6047566.stm

The days of one man's idea and vision being turned into a game without interference are long gone.

I remember the days when one bloke would make a totally original and brilliant game.

Manic Miner

If it takes years and you have to pay 150 people to make a game now I suppose you have to play it safe.

Well these guys are still holding the torch!

http://www.introversion.co.uk. I played Defcon and Uplink and both are absolutely excellent games. Darwinia was a tad abstract for me but the other two are awesome.

Also try www.matrixgames.com for their stuff which is often made by a couple of guys in their bedrooms.

One of my favourite games ever is also manufactured by a small concern. A superb wargame on the 2nd Battle of Manassas.
www.madminutegames.com

There are a few kicking around although they tend to be in the "grog" wargaming community. Which suits me fine!

The is a very healthy community of 'bedroom coders' out there...go here:

http://www.thegamecreators.com/

ALL the software/help/advice/inspiration you could ever need!