Braid is not only one of those games, but one of the best examples of what one person (or two) can accomplish now that an outlet for this type of experience exists. A game like Braid could not have been a possibility two years ago. If, by chance, a publisher did decide to publish the game, it would be cost-prohibitive to put it on store shelves. Instead it would have to be turned into something completely different just to fit into what is expected from a retail title.

I won’t get into details of the story or game mechanics in Braid as there are plenty of places to find that information. Besides, if you’re reading this (thank you, by the way) you’ve probably already heard of the game by now and have some idea of what it entails. Instead I’ll explain why I selected it for my top 5.

Braid is, essentially, a puzzle game. Yes, there are platforming mechanics, so timing and skills with the controls play a big part. But when it comes down to it, each level in Braid is a finely tuned puzzle with each platform, enemy and spike pit placed in a specific location for a reason. The trick to the game is mastering the time control that is unique in each world. Braid does a fantastic job of teaching you each mechanic and then tuning the difficulty in each level so that you have the mental tools required to solve each puzzle. That being said, you will need to think long and hard about many of the puzzles you will encounter. I have to admit that I did give up on (I believe) three levels and had to go to the YouTubes for assistance. (Hey, I’m no genius, I’m just a regular guy, give me a break.) But when you’ve struggling with a level for an hour, ready to give up and it finally clicks in your mind what you need to do, and you then execute it perfectly, the feeling of satisfaction you get is extremely rewarding. The thoughts of, “this level isn’t possible,” which you were inevitably thinking wash away and you understand how carefully crafted the Braid experience is.

In a time when 2D platformers are extremely rare, Braid is still one of my all-time favorites and can be named among the greats from gaming past. Add to it the excellent art style, graphics and soundtrack and you have not only the best example of what an XBLA game can be, but an experience that rivals full retail titles that cost four-times as much.

The Content License Transfer Tool (aka DRM Tool) is now available for use. This tool will allow you to consolidate licenses to a single console. What exactly does this mean? Well, a lot of sites reporting on this don’t seem to have a full understanding of what this is and exactly how it works. Even the official FAQ doesn’t make everything entirely clear, so I’ll do my best to what this is and why we have it. Hit the jump for the best explanation I can come up with.

Every time you download a piece of content onto your Xbox 360, that license for that content is tied to two things: your Gamertag and the console you originally downloaded the content to. The console license is significant because it allows your content to be used by other Gamertags on that console AND by you when you’re not signed into Xbox LIVE.

If your console changes (i.e. You swapped your console at your retailer, you upgraded to an Elite, etc.), you will need to be signed into Xbox LIVE or your content will either not work (DLC for games) or in the case of XBLA games, will revert to Trial mode. For you and any other users of your new console, the content and XBLA games will only work if YOU are signed into Xbox LIVE. Confused yet? Good!

Anyway, here’s where the new tool comes in. The tool will allow you to move all licenses from any consoles you have made purchases on to your new console. Doing this will let you use your content and games offline and will let other users use that content, just like it should be.

Now, this tool is not for use if you have had your console repaired by Microsoft. The repair centers should be migrating your content for you before you get your 360 back. If you have your console repaired and these licenses weren’t migrated, you will probably want to contact Microsoft Support as opposed to using this tool. The reason for this is the tool is only usable once in a 12-month period. This is to prevent people from moving their content willy-nilly. Personally, I feel 12 months is a little overkill. Three to six months would be more reasonable, but I digress.

That’s pretty much the rundown of the new tool and why it even exists. Head over to Major Nelson’s blog for a walkthrough video of the new tool. If anything about the tool or the 360′s DRM doesn’t make sense, feel free to post a comment and ask a question. I’d be happy to answer any inquiries as I’ve done quite a bit of research on this topic.

Link: Content License Transfer Tool [Via Major Nelson]

I’ve been really excited about this game for a long time. The art style is great as are the hand drawn graphics. Four player co-op is going to be a blast. I simply cannot wait for this game.

Link: Castle Crashers GDC 2008: Cartoon Carnage Walkthrough [Via Xbox 360 Fanboy]

This week’s XBLA release is Triggerheart Exelica, which is apparently a remake of a classic Japanese arcade game. Never heard of it myself, but I’m sure someone out there has been waiting for this game. From the media release:

“Triggerheart Exelica” on Xbox LIVE Arcade is an upgraded version of the original Japanese arcade game and allows players to take down or trap and toss enemies by controlling humanoid weapons systems known as Triggerhearts. Players will enjoy the smallest and newest model of Triggerhearts, which feature the perfect blend of artificial intelligence and an imposing arsenal. They are the ultimate weapon against the mysterious enemy ships of the Ver’mith! “Triggerheart Exelica” also features five stages of enhanced graphics, BGM sound tracks, three difficulty levels and a “Variable Boss Attack System,” which adjusts the difficulty level to match player’s skills.

Link: Triggerheart Exelica Coming to Xbox LIVE Arcade This Wednesday

Update: Major Nelson has just announced the availability of the XNA Creators Club Game Launcher from Xbox LIVE Marketplace. The app will allow you to download an launch games from the XNA Creators Club.

Link: Xbox 360 Becomes First Video Game Console Ever to Invite the World to Create Original Games and Share Online With Millions

Also available are some gamerpic packs, which Metanet is quick to point out will not be free, much to their admitted frustration.

Link: N+ on XBLA this Wednesday (the 20th)!! YES!!!!!!! [Via Kotaku]

I’m sure some will have fond memories of Discs of Tron, but I can’t say I’ve ever played it. Commanders appears to be similar to Advance Wars, if that’s your kind of thing.

Anyone planning on purchasing either of these games?

Poker Smash is now available for download on Xbox LIVE Arcade for 800 points. Here’s the summary of the game from Marketplace:

[ESRB: E (EVERYONE) MILD LANGUAGE] Single Player, Xbox LIVE Multiplayer 2-4, Local Multiplayer 2, HD (High Definition). Unlock the full version of Poker Smash to experience seven unique game modes, eleven immersive environments, next-gen 3D graphics, original music, and innovative gameplay. Hone your skills, earn achievements, show off your prowess in LIVE multiplayer tournaments, compete with your friends, and see how you stack up in the Poker Smash community!

Link: Arcade: Poker Smash

As of this morning, you can download Rez HD and Chessmaster LIVE from Xbox LIVE Marketplace for 800 points each.

Rez HD has been highly anticipated, and it seems that it just might live up to the hype. 1UP.com has given the game a 10/10, saying it’s “…one of the best games ever made…”

Link: Arcade: Rez HD | Arcade: Chessmaster Live

This week’s Xbox Live Arcade releases have been revealed by Major Nelson. Come Wednesday morning, we will be graced with Rez HD and Chressmaster LIVE for 800 points each.

Link: This week on Arcade: Rez HD and Chessmaster LIVE