Oh no, it's that time of year agree when publishers release all of the big games in just a couple of months and then treat themselves to eight months off.

I joke about it, but this is actually one of the best parts of my job, being able to recommend games that I know you're just going to love, hands down.

"FarCry 2" (360, PS3): The first is "FarCry 2," which is related in name only to the first game in the series. This time, you're put smack dab in the middle of a sprawling African environment, charged only with hunting and killing an arms dealer named "The Jackal."

I mention the environment early, because it really is the star here. Filled with tons of different types of landscapes, vegetation and animals, there's lot's to see. As you gradually conquer this unforgiving region, you'll notice that there's just as much variety in how you can approach each conflict as there is in the plant and animal life. Sneak in with your silenced pistol or take everybody out with guns blazing, it's up to you.

Even after you've completed your (long) mission, there's some additional multiplayer action for you to enjoy.

There are some minor problems (AI is dumb, there's too much traveling for my tastes) but it's still nigh impossible to resist "FarCry 2"'s charms.

"Dead Space" (360, PS3, PC): After "Resident Evil" fundamentally created the survival horror genre it's really nice to see it finally evolving.

"Dead Space" casts you as a miner on a space station infected by ... something, I don't want to give it a way. But know that you'll need all your wits and a terrifying sparse collection of weapons (well, mining tools more specifically) to survive.

This isn't jump out at you scary, it's not about shock value. It's a different kind of fear, a fear that permeates your psyche, creating a sustained tension that rarely lets up. If you've got fears of being completely alone, the absolute solitude of the infested ship may almost be more than you can bear.

All the terror is executed with great sound, great graphics and a fast-moving story that plays out like a "Great Moments in Science Fiction" collection. If you're looking for some scares this Halloween in game form, you don't need to look any further.

Justin McElroy is a freelance writer living in Huntington. His writing appears on video game sites like Gamezebo.com and Joystiq.com.

Courtesy of Sony

"Far Cry 2" puts you in the middle of a sprawling African environment, charged only with hunting and killing an arms dealer named "The Jackal."

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