Games we're giddy about

Ah, yes, the glorious dead season of game development. I can't think of the last time a good game came out in this brief period of time that usually is about as exciting as watching paint dry, but things seem to be different this year. Check out what you're sure to be punching the piggybank for this month.

Kingdom Hearts II (PS2, $49.99)

Everyone loves a sequel. How about a sequel to a game that made Disney okay, though? Yes, Disney -- think more awesome action scenes and serious storylines and less magic carpet rides. If you're still wary or even afraid of what your friends will think of you for buying this game, don't be. Disney teamed up with Square Enix (creators of "Final Fantasy") to make this the most grown-up series that features childhood icons ever. The action is smooth, the combat system golden, and the never-ending parade of familiar faces is more than enough to write home about. This sequel looks to give gamers a solid 30 hours of game time, and is definitely something to look into if you're at all intrigued by this somewhat odd premise. A double thumbs from me.

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion (PC, XB360)

If you went and picked up a 360 after last month's article trashing it, you're finally going to have something good to pop in it. "The Elder Scrolls" series is famous for it's last edition, "Morrowind," which rocked everyone's faces off that I knew. "Oblivion" is one of the most open-ended games on the market, providing graphics so hypnotizing it should be dangerous. Set in a sort of medieval time period, it's up to you what you do. The main story line has something to do with political intrigue and justice, but I personally have become quite an accomplished horse thief. Pickpocketing, traveling, setting houses on fire -- this game lets you be you. It appears to be around a 100+ hour game if you do everything it offers, which is just about enough playtime to get you through into the next season of game development.

Happy horsethieving!