With the coming of fall, it’s the time of year when game companies start putting out all of their triple-A titles in one big rush we call the holiday shopping season. While I hope you aren’t going out and crushing Wal-Mart employees in a game hungry fervor like a soccer mom hopped up on a caramel macchiato, there are many games that have already come out this year that should have your attention.

In its short time on store shelves, Beatles Rock Band has already left its mark on rhythm game history by providing one of the most comprehensive musical experiences with music from one of the greatest bands of all time.

Although some hardcore Guitar Hero aficionados may find the challenge of the game to be somewhat lacking, no one can deny the electricity that permeates a room when you manage to get 3 of your friends jamming their hearts out to music that you love.

While a large part of your enjoyment will depend on whether you like the Beatles, Rock Band is still the party game to end all party games in any social environment. Add in the beautiful set pieces, an interesting harmonizing feature and a varied set list from one of the most popular bands of all time, and you have a must buy for fans of the Beatles and fans of music games in general.

One game this season that has style and beautiful artwork in spades is the Wii exclusive Muramasa: The Demon Blade. 

Set in feudal Japan Muramasa tells an interesting tale of two young sword swingers as they battle their way throw hordes of foes on their way to achieving their own pursuits. One story is told from the perspective of the Demon possessed princess Momohime and the other is from the amnesiac ninja Kisuke. 

While each of their stories is interesting, it’s the games artistic style that steals the show. All of the art is hand drawn and animated in beautiful detail. From snowy mountains to spirit haunted battlefields, the game never ceases to please and is a must buy for any game-hungry Wii owner.

Although each of these games bring something special to the plate that sets them apart from others that will be released this year, only one game this season will be able to evoke a level of excitement and fandom like only the Dark Knight could.

I am talking, of course, about Batman: Arkham Asylum.

Easily the greatest Batman game ever created, Arkham Asylum takes any expectations of what a comic book game should be, and blows them out of the water, with its moody atmosphere, accessible combat, and amazing presentation. 

Featuring voice work from a number of the cast members from the animated series, Arkham Asylum is one of the best games of the year. Words can’t describe how good this game is so, pocket book willing, if you own an Xbox 360 or a Playstation 3 this game should be on your shelf by the end of the year. You won’t regret it.

With summer’s sunshine giving way to fall’s clouds and rain, the gaming industry is waking up after it summer hibernation and is already bringing us a number of excellent titles for your gaming pleasure.  So be happy my friends, for we can now start arguing about games again.