What’s up, gamers? We’re going to be starting something new (new to us, anyway) this week, and this year, for that matter. Each week, we’re going to bring you the list of marquee video game releases, and flat out give you our opinion on the game’s value. How will we do this? Simple, we’ll let you know if the game is worth buying, if you should only rent it as a low cost alternative, or if you should flat out just stick to checking out the demo (and, in those special cases that the game doesn’t have a demo, if you should just completely ignore it). This is completely opinionated, and the verdicts may not always come from that of someone who’s played the full game, but this is only to be taken extremely lightly. If anything, look at this as a weekly release list and treat it as nothing more. Additionally, the release list will be in accordance to United States release dates and games. Release dates in other regions and countries may be different, so check for yourself if you happen to live elsewhere.

With all of that out of the way, there couldn’t be a better week to begin this, either, as we’ve gotten past the end of the year drought and the goods are finally on their way for 2010! What should you spend your money on this week?

1/5: Bayonetta (PS3, Xbox 360) STRONG RENT

I’m still dreaming about this digital beaut every night as I long for closure in my odd fantasies and my need to fill that sad void in my life. I’m probably joking, but whatever the case, Bayonetta is one game that gamers probably can’t afford to pass up this week. We’ve played the demo, read up on the game, and saw the seductive photo shoots from the game’s main character (digital or not, it’s enticing, to say the least) and I’d be hard-pressed to miss this one. Unfortunately, I don’t really see the experience being too fulfilling for the long stretch, so I am going to have to award this one a strong rental for a week or two. Get your achievements/trophies, feed your eyes, and move onto the next.

1/5: Darksiders (PS3, Xbox 360) STRONG RENT

One look at this game, and I’d dub someone crazy for suggesting that this could be Game of the Year material (I’m looking at you, Torrence Davis). While it’s hard to justify such a claim so early in the year (and before the game is even released) is ridiculous, I’d call you a fool for not keeping tabs on this one. The game is looking great, houses an interesting premise, some fun-filled gameplay, and looks like it will deliver to be a very enjoyable experience. Unfortunately, the fact that no DLC has yet been discussed doesn’t bode well for determining the game’s long term value, which is why we’re going to give it a strong rental.

1/5: Divinity 2: Ego Draconis (Xbox 360, PC) DEMO

Ego Draconis is the latest RPG from CDV, the same guys that brought us Sacred 2: Fallen Angel. While I thoroughly enjoyed that game, I will admit that it isn’t for everyone and Divinity 2 looks to follow in similar fashion. A lot of promising things were revealed about the game, including the revelation of it being based on the same engine used in Bethesda’s critically acclaimed titles Fallout 3 and Oblivion, but I don’t think dubbing it an automatic success for that reason is very wise. It’s gotten a decent reception in the media, but we’re still going to suggest just checking out the demo before you make any purchase decisions.

1/5: Fast Food Panic (Wii, DS) DEMO

I’m not going to completely write this game off, but we all know how this is going down. I would probably strongly suggest this to the same crowds that enjoy Cafe World and Diner Dash, but this new game, while the concept is interesting, doesn’t really seem like a sure fire winner. Head over to the game’s official site to check out a PC-based demo for yourself!

Arcade and Downloadable Release Quickies

1/6-1/7: Matt Hazard: Bloodbath and Beyond (PS3, Xbox360) DEMO – Check it out. Similar to Shadow Complex. May be worth your pennies.