August 5th--Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in Time Re-Shelled (1200 MS Points)

Don't let the ridiculously long title scare you away. While it might be quite the tongue twister, this is a completely reskinned, updated version of the classic Turtles in Time adventure that a lot of old school gamers are quite fond of. In fact, this particular version is a remake of the original Arcade edition of the title which differs slightly from what a lot of folks played when they caught this game on the Super Nintendo. But even if some things differ slightly, this is still Turtles in Time, one of the best beat-um-up games of all time, now in HD.

It's pizza time!

August 12th--Trials HD (1200 MS Points)

For motorcycle racing fans that love explosions, Trials HD is the game for you. In what can only be described as a fusion between Excite Bike, Portal, and Line Rider, Trials HD looks to be a rockin' good time. And with two game modes(Race and Skill), a full on level editor, and the ability to customize your rider and earn new bikes, Trials HD gives players plenty to do for their 1200 MS Points.

It's also worth noting that the entire game is based around actual real world physics, making the level editor an amazing visual extravaganza. Especially when an explosion goes off and hurls your rider 100 feet in the air.

August 19th--Shadow Complex (1200 MS Points)

Last, but definitely not least, is Shadow Complex, the latest from Chair Entertainment. This title, announced at Microsoft's 2009 E3 Keynote Conference, makes use of the Unreal Engine 3 and is a side-scrolling action adventure game with a heavy influence from Super Metroid and Castlevania: Symphony of the Night. Two titles definitely worth being inspired by in gamer's eyes.

The game is also based on Orson Scott Card's novel Empire, with a script penned by comic legend Peter David. There are even plans for a sequel to dovetail out of this first title for release in Fall 2009. It seems that the "Summer of Arcade" may be saving the best for last with Shadow Complex.

All in all it's looking like a great summer to pick up a few titles for $15 and less, kick back in your chair with a fan centered directly on you, and beat the heat that would otherwise cook bacon right off your back. If only great Xbox Live Arcade titles hit year round then the world would be a better, safer place.