Stick your head out of your window. Notice that warmth and sun and birdsong and such? That’s summer. Summer means that you won’t be playing many brand new videogames. Yeah, I think it’s a bummer too, but there’s still some cool stuff you can check out that you may have missed in the past.

Deus Ex: Human Revolution (PS3, 360, PC)

The thing about ‘Human Revolution’ is that if it’s even close to as good as the original ‘Deus Ex’, it could still qualify as one of the best games of the year. There’s a reason that I was once excited to play ‘Epic Mickey’. Warren Spector is, or was, one of the best game designers in the biz, and much of his reputation comes from the great ‘Deus Ex’.

A lot of what made ‘Deus Ex’ unique has become standard now. Leveling mechanics, the ability to complete levels in different ways, and moral choices can now be found in even mainstream shooters instead of being limited to the “weird” stuff.

The issue here is that much of what made ‘Deus Ex’ so unique is commonplace now. ‘Human Revolution’ really needs to do a lot to set itself apart. Even if it’s a solid game, it’s going to have to be very special to earn the ‘Deus Ex’ title.

Deus Ex (PC)

Well hell, you may as well find out for yourself. Keep in mind that ‘Deus Ex’ is an eleven-year-old shooter when you go into it, and you’ll have plenty of fun. Like I said, some of the unique aspects are commonplace now, but being able to get through the game without having to shoot anyone is still a very cool challenge. You can pick up the game on Steam for just $9.99.

Braid (PSN, XBLA, PC)

If you haven’t already gotten to ‘Braid’, then it’s about time. It’s cheap enough to pick up and you’ll get to experience one of the best puzzle games in recent memory. Control time to solve the level, and listen to some absolutely brilliant music on the way. You’ll only have to pay around $10 no matter where you get it.