No need to be stumped looking for a stocking stuffer with real-gift heft. The $7.3 billion computer and video-game industry has something for every age and taste. Maybe that's why about 75 percent of American heads of households are playing, according to industry-sponsored surveys.
Those seeking a larger video game experience can jump into the world of the new Xbox 360, the first in the next generation of consoles to fully support high definition resolution to create game worlds so crisp and real you feel like you can step into them. The Xbox 360 also supports 5.1 surround sound and online features via an Xbox Live account including game downloads, movie trailers, music and more. Units start as the scaled-down Core package at $299 and the package that includes controller, cables and 20-gigabyte hard drive for $399. Among new things being offered by Nintendo this holiday season, look for free online play for owners of the compact Nintendo DS. DS owners can now log in and play against other DS players all over the world as long as they are located in a Wi-Fi hotspot.
Also be on the lookout for the world's smallest game system: The Nintendo Game Boy Micro. The Micro shrinks the already popular Game Boy Advance system into a unit smaller than most candy bars. With a library of more than 700 titles and a $99.99 price tag, the Micro makes for a small but fun-packed gift.
With games being made for so many different systems, including portables like PSP and GameBoy Advance, as well as versions specifically for home computers, there are a mind-boggling number of titles from which to choose — including many based on pop culture, from television shows to movies and even radio shows. Think "Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe," "Lizzie McGuire 3: Homecoming Havoc" or "Herbie Fully Loaded," and you get the idea. Or the mega-hit Bratz doll toys.
We waded through scads of titles — still only a small portion of what's available — to offer some suggestions. If the games are available on a number of systems, we've included a price range that depends on which system you want.
Games for everyone
Here is a selection of games rated "E" or "E+10":
Lego Star Wars: The Video Game (PS2, Xbox, GC, PC; Eidos Interactive, $24.99-$29.99). What a pairing of perennial favorites. This family-friendly game takes kids through the "Star Wars" story and locations. And this time you're Chewbacca, Obi-Wan, R2-D2 or one of the other characters, fighting with light sabers and racing pods.
Adventures in Odyssey and the Treasure of the Incas (PC; Digital Praise, $29.95). Join Whit, Connie and Eugene from the Christian radio show as they try to find the treasure Eugene's archaeologist parents found before they disappeared. It's an adventure even young gamers will "dig." So will their elders.
Lumines (PSP; Ubisoft, $29.99). An addictive puzzle with a beat, Lumines was a popular pick for PSP gamers as a simple and entertaining way to eat up your time. Group blocks to the same color together to gain points. Your progress changes the the beat to a variety of great dance tunes.
Bratz: Rock Angelz (PS2, GC, GBA, PC; THQ, $15-$39.99). If you've got girls ages 6-12 anywhere in your life, you know Bratz, who care passionately about fashion. It's all an adventure as you try to put out a fashion magazine, visiting far-flung locations in search of style. Best of all, it actually takes a little time, so it will last at least past Christmas dinner.
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (PS2, Xbox, GC, GBA, Nintendo DS, PSP; Electronic Arts, $24.99-$50). This is the fourth game based on the hit movie series, and they've taken it down a notch to make it easier for a younger audience, a plus or minus depending on your skill level. Some of the challenge is gone, but the graphics are simply incredible and kids will have fun casting spells.
SSX On Tour (GC, PS2, PSP, Xbox; EA Sports, $26.95). The popular extreme snowboarding title gets a new look, including skis. Race down pulse-pounding slopes all over the world, pulling world-class tricks and catching big air.
EyeToy: Kinetic (PS2; Nike MotionWorks Lab, $49.99). Whew. I'm bushed, and you will be, too, with this fitness program that has aerobics, kickboxing, yoga and more. Spend some time with your "personal" trainer and find out how you're doing in real-time. It's actually fun. Single- and multiple-player modes are available, and the action is not sequential.
Nintendogs (Nintendo DS; Nintendo, $29.99). If someone on your list wants a puppy, we've got a suggestion: Try this game, instead. You can select a puppy and learn to care for it, play with it, love it, scratch it, bathe it. Best of all, you can talk to it, using the DS microphone. After you train your pet, you can compete in obedience and agility trials for money with which to buy more dogs. Sounds strange, yes? But it's rushing off the store shelves, one of the season's hottest sellers.
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (PS2, Xbox, GC, GBA, Nintendo DS, PC; Disney Interactive, $29.99-$49.99). Narnia has been frozen by the White Witch, and she's still not done wreaking havoc. You can take advantage of all four siblings' unique skills, one at a time, as you solve puzzles and do battle. And you don't have to go it alone, either. A friend can grab a controller and play along.
Wipeout Pure (PSP; Sony Computer Entertainment, $36.95). Anti-gravity racing has gone pocket-size in this re-creation of one of the most popular game titles for the original Sony Playstation. Race against the clock, computer opponents or multiple friends via Wi-Fi in this futuristic racing game with an edge.
We Love Katamari (PS2; Namco, $29.99). The sequel to the 2004 sleeper hit takes a few new spins on the junk-collecting alien prince but stays true to what made the original game popular — making the biggest ball of junk that you possibly can. The premise sounds strange but is mysteriously addictive and fun for all ages.
Games for teens
Here is a selection of games rated "T," or that have ratings pending but are suggested for teens:
Psychonauts (PC, PS2, Xbox; Majesco Games, $45.95-$49.99). Talk about head trips. The game puts you in a summer camp for kids with psychic talents. The quirky platform game takes you into the levels of people's minds with some great puzzle-solving play. The game sports an array of bizarre, yet funny characters.
Shadow of the Colossus (PS2; Sony Computer Entertainment, $39.99). One of the most innovative and entertaining games of 2005. You play as a small, young warrior, who must defeat 16 unique giants by climbing onto them and figuring out their weaknesses.
Star Wars: Republic Commando (PC, Xbox; Lucas Arts, $29.99-$49.99). So you want to be a Storm Trooper? Now is your chance in this adrenaline-packed, single-player adventure based on the popular "Star Wars" universe. One of the better "Star Wars" games.
Oddworld Stranger's Wrath (Xbox; EA Games, $25.95). Let's face it, very few games use small critters for ammo. Take the role of a mysterious bounty hunter who enlists the help of a variety of animals in his quest to catch wanted bad guys and collect their bounty.
Kingdom of Paradise (PSP; Sony Computer Entertainment, $39.99). Great sword play and Asian mythology give this adventure its fun. One of the few role-playing games for the PSP.
Ratchet: Deadlocked (PS2; Insomniac Games, $39.99). This is No. 4 in the series, and it's a little more violent than earlier versions, in part because it centers around an "underground reality combat show." It's also got more for the player to do, including combining features for customized weaponry. The title refers to the explosive lock around Ratchet's neck — and if he doesn't hurry, he's in real trouble.
Jak X: Combat racing (PS2; Sony Computer Entertainment, $39.99). Poor Jak's been poisoned by Krew, and if he wants to survive, he's in for the race of his life. Multiplayer and other options are a perk in this fast-paced adventure.
Madden NFL '06 (PS2, Xbox, GC; Electronic Arts, $39.99-$50; Xbox 360, $59.99). The Madden football series is a perpetual best seller in which you pick your team and play in all the stadiums. This version has something called QB Vision Control to help the quarterback pass better and a new NFL Superstar mode so you can be a sports celebrity off the field. Online multiplayer options.
Games for adults
Here is a selection of games rated "M" for mature:
Ninja Gaiden Black (Xbox; Tecmo, $29.99). If everything else just seems too easy to beat, try this one on for size. The extended version of the 2004 hit, this game has earned a respectful nod from hard-core gamers as one of the most challenging games out there. You play as the last of your ninja clan, out to exact revenge.
Socom: U.S. NAVY SEALS Fire Team Bravo (PSP; Sony Computer Entertainment, $39.99). Play it alone or team up with a dozen or so buddies to tackle 14 missions as commander of an elite squad. There's a twist: It's interoperable with PS2 through SOCOM 3: U.S. Navy SEALs with a "crosstalk mission objective," the action synchronized with a USB cable that can change what happens in the other guy's action.
God of War (PS2; Sony Computer Entertainment, $45.95). One of the best action/adventure games of 2005, you play as a fallen warrior whose destiny is to take on the god of war, Aries. With stunning scenery and fantastic characters inspired by Greek mythology, this game offers a heart-pounding journey from Hades to Olympus itself.
Prince of Persia: The Two Thrones (GC, PS2, Xbox; Ubisoft; $45.95-$49.99). The third installment of the much-praised Prince of Persia Sands of Time series places you in the role of two very different princes, one dark and one light. Experience breathtaking environments and challenging puzzles.
Jade Empire (Xbox; Bioware Entertainment, $19.95). Venture through a mythical world inspired by Asian lore. The choices you make result in how just, or how evil, a person you will become.
Genji: Dawn of the Samurai (PS2; Sony Computer Entertainment, $35.95). Play as a samurai warrior in feudal Japan battling evil demons to restore the honor of your family. Action-packed, this game challenges your reflexes.
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