Hi Universe!
(Like the name by the way)
I don't know if there is a way to not allow downloads if people are able to go to the downloads page. Simply put, if they see a download link in downloads, it will do just that, start downloading
The only other option I have for you is to use the recent downloads block in an out of the way place. What this will do is show users what been downloaded lately but not allow them to download because of your group settings for the downloads.
Example to explain more clearly. Allow registered users the group access to downloads. Only they will see and download. Allow all users (including anonymous) to see the recent downloads block. The block in itself will just show whats availble. The only limitation is how many downloads the block will show at one time and what's popular, or been recently downloaded by registered users. Not a perfect solution, but it works in its own limited way
Alternatively, you can create a News section called Downloads and just write a quick news item with your new download. Use the title of the news item as the name of your download. Incluse a recent news block and it will appear as though it's a list of links. This lets people know what you have without opening up your site. Less desireable, more work for you the admin, but also a workable solution.
You can't have one without the other really, or without sacrifice or makeing more work for yourself in the end. What you have to ask yourself, is it really worth it?
If I can offer a personal opinion, there is little point to restricting downloads, unless you have something unique to offer. Too many times I've gone to other XOOPS sites and had to register just got a one time file that in most cases I don't even keep. I've found that people think this an effective way to get 'new users'. Theres no point of getting new users if they have no reason to stay. What I'm trying to say, from my standpoint,is that it make more sense to make downloads available to everyone without limitation. There are more effective ways of atracting users, like a message board and other things.
The choice is of course yours to make, so can take what I say with a grain of salt, or take it seriously, up to you!
Cheers