A couple bits of news regarding the App Store were released today.

The first is that Apple has just released a Best of 2008 list for applications in their App store, based solely on number of downloads the app has. The list is separated into two columns—paid and free apps. It also ranks the top downloaded apps in their respective categories. It doesn’t pack many surprises for those that check the Top 25 tab in the App Store often but it’s worth a look. Click here for the list.

The bigger news today is that Apple is now allowing developers to release 50 promotional free copies of their applications to whomever they desire. The promotional code is used by typing it into the form under the Redeem tab in the iTunes store. This will especially come in handy for speedier application reviews and even allow for a beta testing period, shrinking the void between developers and the community’s helpful criticism.

Zumobi, the maker of the Pro Football application series, has released an app for every NFL team.

For example, since my favorite team is the Jacksonville Jaguars, I was able to download Pro Football Jacksonville.

The application opens to four windows, three of which are the same for every version: News, Scores, and Stats. You can use these windows to find information from around the NFL, from viewing the upcoming week’s injury report to checking who has the most rushing yards in the NFC. These tabs work great at what they do, with a “e-mail to a friend” link in the upper right hand corner at all times.

The forth corner of the menu, however, is a window catered to the NFL you selected.

From the guys who brought you Tap Tap Revenge comes a new game, dubbed Puzzlotto, in the same vein as the great puzzle titles Zork and Myst.

The catch?

The first US resident (not residing in Vermont, Maryland, or North Dakota, for whatever reaason) to beat the game can receive up to $30,000.

As soon as the game is released this Wednesday the prize pool will start at $1,000 dollars for the winner and escalate $1,000 a day until it reaches a maximum of a smooth 30k (barring no one claims the prize before then) in approximately a month, which will be the last day of the contest.
 
The game launches for $4.99 this Wednesday and is already looking to be worth its price point, at least according to some early testers, including Dan Pasco, who’s video can be seen HERE.
 
Unitedlemur, the company behind the project, will be keeping the public posted daily via their twitter blog, and a tenth of the proceeds of the game go to Madagascar Fauna Group.