What'cha Been Playing?! A Week of DLC

I've heard many people say it, but I feel it bears repeating: downloadable content, specifically downloadable games have finally begun to fulfill their initial promises. Each service has their bright spots, and each is positioned very differently.

Until recently Xbox Live Arcade has been a junk-bin -- it had a few shining stars (Geometry Wars), but I gave up looking for good titles here around about the time Marble Blast Ultra hit the scene. Releases on XBL were slow in coming, rehashes of old games (usually badly emulated), or just plain over-priced. It'll be cool to see what the XNA Creator's Club will do!

PSN started slow as well. Sony appears to be more focused on quality and innovation, as they're actively seeking games that push the boundaries. Larger games, like Tekken: Dark Resurrection have a home on PSN, as do smaller unique titles like Everyday Shooter and the Pixel Junk series -- all good stuff!!

I have also been a fan of the Wii's Virtual Console -- without it, we'd rarely ever use our Wii. With all hope, WiiWare will begin to pick up the momentum Xbox Live and PSN have finally begun to exhibit. At this point, the professional eating games aren't cutting it.

It's very cool to see that these services are beginning to come into their own. So what have I been playing?? Let me see. . . .

• Pixel Junk Eden (PS3) - The Pixel Junk series has gotten better and better. Monsters did not hook me, but Eden is a no-brainer. I've heard mixed reactions across many podcasts, from elation to WTF. I can't speak to what the WTF crowd is thinking -- Eden is an enjoyable game. It's addictive, somewhat relaxing and I even got a trophy. Download the demo and check it out, I feel it's highly recommended.
• Geometry Wars: Retro Evolved 2 (Xbox 360) - The original must-buy Xbox Live Arcade title finally has a sequal. Retro Evolved 2 adds all kinds of new modes, which really freshens things up, as does the sped up gameplay. This game is one of the best "twin stick shooters" out there. . .get it -- highly recommended.
• Penny Arcade Adventures: Episode 1 (Xbox 360) - Yes, I've picked this game back up and I've nearly finished it. It's a good game, however I still question the high price. As one progresses through the game, the depth of the combat system reveals itself and it's really quite fun! Recommended (but it should be less expensive).
• Final Fantasy IV (DS) - I don't get it. The reviews were positive, the hippy-themed Gamestop guy was raving about it, so why-oh-why does it seem like this game sucks?? Final Fantasy III for DS was hard but enjoyable. IV is frustrating, and the graphics seem like a step down. . .I have to be missing something. This game also adds insult to injury by ramping up the difficulty as your characters level-up -- you can't even grind your way out of a tough spot! Had I known, I wouldn't have gone near this game at its $40 price tag. So far. . .Not recommended.

Honorable Mentions & Look Ahead:

• Siren: Blood Curse (PS3) -- Like horror? Have a PS3? Get this game - it is awesome! The demo really doesn't do it any justice. I love the game's vibe and pacing. . .Its releases like this that set PSN apart. Highly Recommended!
• Strong Bad's Cool Game for Attractive People (Wii / PC) -- I will be downloading this one as soon as I am able. Who doesn't love Strong Bad?!
  

So, what have you been playing?