Now Replaying: Sid Meier's Pirates!

Available as a $10 "Xbox Originals" download through Xbox Live, this 2004 remake of the classic PC game is pure, addictive swashbuckling fun that'll have you sailing your way across the 17th century Carribean while laying siege to towns, swordfighting captains, finding long-lost treasure chests, escorting the governor's daughter to high-society balls, and much more.

It's very easy to learn and play. Even young children could play it if they (and you) are not put off by the light cartoon violence. The trade-off is that, despite the sail-anywhere-at-any-time structure of the game and the variety of stuff to do, the game can get repetitive.

Still, if you're like me and in the mood for a little mindless summer gaming fun, this is the one for you. And you'll love the fact that the action is rated "Argh!"

(Sorry for that. I blame the game.)