June was a rough month on gamer's wallets. Luckily July is the exact opposite. In fact, we couldn't even come up with ten titles worth purchasing. But this is the way of the gaming industry--on and off months. Times when you have a stack of games piling up so high you can't fathom ever catching up, and times when you're contemplating purchasing some third rate title just because you want to spend some money. But we try to help you avoid the later scenario so instead of listing games we wouldn't recommend to our worst enemies, we've chosen the strongest five titles of the month to inform you about. So let us get on with it...

BlazBlue
System: Xbox 360, PS3
Release Date: L.E. now, standard edition 7/28/2009

The release of BlazBlue is a bit odd. The only version available right now is the Limited Edition packaging which includes a two-disc soundtrack with 48 tracks and a a bonus video disc hosting such things as basic tutorials, expert advice, and strategies specific to each character. The nice thing about this is that the entire package, including all the bonus content, only costs the standard $60. That's quite the deal. But for those who don't have the shelf space, as that's the only reason to wait it out for the standard edition release, you can pick up BlazBlue at the end of the month.

Now as for the actual game. BlazBlue is a 2-D fighting game made by the creators of Guilty Gear and that becomes apparent right when you start up the game. It's essentially a spiritual sequel to that franchise that ups the anty in every way possible. The game has ultra slick presentation and fast, fluid gameplay--perfect for both the casual and hardcore fighting game fan. So if you enjoy fighters, and love anime characters, BlazBlue is the perfect pickup in this gaming drought.