The gaming world is in a bit of a lull right now after all the holiday games have been released. There aren’t very many big name video games being released until early February when Mass Effect 2 and Bioshock 2, two sequels to games that did extremely well both critically and sales-wise are released. Until then here are a couple games to tide you over until summer, fun and patio dining sets.

Bayonetta

Much of the early buzz and hype surrounding this stylish and cinematic game revolved around the main character, Bayonetta and her lack of appropriate fighting attire. In true Japanese Sega style, Bayonetta wears as little clothing possible, dispatching her enemies with finesse, sex appeal and sass. Thankfully, the game itself seems to be more than just a buxom babe fighting game as it has been receiving near critical acclaim for its beautiful art rendering and its graceful, fun fighting style. It has been compared to the widely loved God of War series and its stylish beat-em-up style. If you’re looking for a fast, colorful, very Japanese-style fighting game that many are already calling the game of 2010, check out Bayonetta.

Darksiders

With art direction and story by famous comic book artist Joe Madureira, who has worked on X-Men and The Ultimates, don’t expect anything but the best art rendering and unique, detailed characters in this action adventure game helmed by publisher THQ. In Darksiders you play as War, one of the four horsemen of the apocalypse who have come to earth to see its destruction. You embark on a quest for revenge against the forces and gods that have betrayed you and turned you into a mortal in what is being called one of the best “pure gamer’s games” of the year. It is a cleverly crafted and beautifully dark game to start off 2010.

Alan McGee is a freelance writer from MN.