Five day-wasting games!

While we're not advocating a complete shut-down, occasionally at work you need the odd distraction to make the day go a bit quicker. Some choose Fantasy Football, some go for a sneaky flirt with the hot new girl on reception, but we think there's a much more subtle way of getting your kicks in the office.

Playing games, whether online or in an old-school, Windows Solitaire kind of way, is not only a great way to while away a rainy Monday, it also makes you look like the hard-working employee you usually are; your boss needn't know that that furious glare on your face is the result of misplaced virtual gunfire. And best of all you don't have to leave your desk to do it; perfect if a late night has left you feeling a little delicate. With this in mind, may we present the top five games you can play in work next week; pour a strong coffee, and get your mouse-finger limbered up.

1. Space Invaders

Space Invaders is the ultimate retro gaming choice, and for 'cool kid' points this should be your first port of call. There's plenty of websites that offer Space Invaders free of charge, and provided you turn your speakers down you could be having hours of old-fashioned fun in arguably the first-ever shoot 'em up. Arcade games are having a bit of a renaissance of late, but if your office is behind the times in employee entertainment systems, than this is the next best thing.

2. The Walls Are Not Cheese

The Walls Are Not Cheese is a random, quirky one-off that looks like it was designed in Windows Paint and has the weirdest name we've ever come across. Yet somehow, it works! You play a purple square that has to shoot or be shot by a load of blue squares (told you it was simplistic), collecting points by blasting and then eating your way through your surroundings. Fans of slick graphics and presentation should steer clear, but we secretly like this little game.

3. Online Casino

If you're a gambling man (or woman), we reckon an online casino should be right up your street. Poker, blackjack or roulette are all fine choices, especially for seasoned players who like a game with a bit of risk. You can even invite your mates to play and host your own online tournaments (although probably best not to include everyone else in the office, unless you want the day to completely grind to a halt). Online slots are a good choice if you want a game you don't have to particularly think about: click, pull, and see what comes up.

4. Cost Cutter

If you've got nosey workmates, or have the great misfortune of working in an open-plan office, Cost Cutter is good for looking like you're hard at it. A simple block-building game, this puzzler is designed to look exactly like a regular spreadsheet, which to be fair is pretty much what it is. Save your company money by cutting costs where you can, hitting the spacebar to make the game seem like a normal spreadsheet should anyone approach you; the ultimate office games tool.

5. Top Spinner

If your company has managed to block all sports news websites, get your cricket fix with Top Spinner. Bat, bowl, throw, catch: all the standard cricket elements are there, with simple keyboard and mouse manipulation to help you play with a degree of subtlety. Just remember to celebrate quietly should you hit that winning run, with a small smirk. No victory laps for you, unfortunately.

Whichever your game of choice, remember that strict office gaming rules still apply: speakers down, work document ready to switch to if the boss makes an unexpected appearance and studious expression at all times. Everyone needs a break, after all.