A Gamer's Corner Christmas

Wednesday, 09 December 2009 12:47

These picks are guaranteed to make that special gamer jump for joy, then probably ignore you for several hours. Hey, these games won't play themselves.

By Brad McKay

ACTION / SIMULATION / FIGHTING: Batman: Arkham Asylum 
(Multi-system) (4.5 Stars)

The developers managed to take every aspect that makes Batman cool, wrap it in an amazing graphics engine and package it with game play that will have you mesmerized from beginning to end. This isn't just a typical beat-‘em-up, but a stealthy, provoking title.

Also on the list: DJ Hero, Resident Evil 5, Street Fighter IV

FIRST-PERSON SHOOTER: Call of Duty: World at War 
(Multi-system) (5 Stars)

Though released late last year, there aren't many games that can rival the hard-hitting action that CoD:WaW provides. It chronicles the Red Army's battle against the Japanese, who will do whatever it takes to win, even play dead in order to attack you with their bayonets. Definitely money well spent.

Also on the list: Killzone 2, Halo 3: ODST

RPG: Dragon Age: Origins 
(Multi-system) (4 Stars)

You can choose your race, background, class, abilities–basically, every facet of your avatar to make it your own. Plus, the game play is amazing, and the story will engross you for hours.

Also on the list: World of Warcraft: Wrath of the Lich King, Borderlands, Pokémon: Platinum

SPORTS: Need For Speed Shift 
(Multi-system) (4.5 Stars)

A universally-appealing racing game that provides it all: gorgeous cars, excellent game mechanics, tons of customization, fast paced racing and easy-to-grasp controls.

Also on the list: Madden NFL 10, NHL 10, Wii Fit

STRATEGY: Halo Wars 
(Xbox 360) (4 Stars)

Though not made by the original developers, the game perfectly captures the Halo feel, while serving up strategy action by the barrel load, even if it feels a bit confined. If your gamer is a Halo addict, this title should hit the top of your ‘to buy’ list.

Also on the list: Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War 2