Xbox 360
When it comes to Christmas I can be a bit of a scrooge. Generally speaking, the closest I get to 'festive' is drinking too much past the jolly side of a bottle of whisky. In fact, it would probably all be much easier if once a year we all went out and splashed a load of money on whatever we wanted for ourselves. Still, loads of folk love Christmas and spend ages fretting about what to get their friends and family. This can be especially difficult when we consider the gamer, and even more so if you or your family can't tell their Wii from their PS3.
Since we're such charitable people here at Square-Go, we've put together a quick list of Xmas recommendations for both the buyer and reciever. In the spirit of the season, we're hoping our efforts will prevent you from having to force that fake smile on Xmas morning after Gran's bought you Barbie Horse Adventures 2: Requiem. Again.
The Family Man: Some people actually expect you to spend time with your family on Christmas day, so it might be worth adding a multiplayer game or two to your list. Both Mario Kart Wii and Smash Bros Brawl should still be attracting hoards of folk to tv screens, and both are top titles. Little Big Planet is also very family friendly and supports four-player co-op, not to mention that it comes with game creation tools so simple that anyone can put together their own levels in no time. Finally, if you've got the economical fortitude, why not pick up Guitar Hero World Tour and its band kit. With a little luck (and your Aunt Winnie's hardcore bongo skillz), you and your kin will by annoying the neighbours before Boxing Day with your very own faux band.
The Addict: No matter how hard you try, some folk will ignore their family and get down to some hardcore gaming for the day, salutations sir! Luckily, there are some top class time-consumers on sale this season. Fallout 3 dominates this list as it has potentially hundreds of hours of playtime. Exploring a nuclear wasteland has never been so enchanting as in this epic role-playing game. One man and his dog battle for survival in a world so packed with detail you'll still be finding new things come Easter. Another big RPG, Fable 2, also includes a faithful canine companion, as well as hours of play in a charming fantasy world marked by a very welcome, very British sense of humour.
The Casual Gamer: Some folk enjoy games, but they don't let them rule their life. Here are a few titles that should keep them occupied when the time's right. Gears of War 2 is perfect for any blokes with a penchant for action games, and also has a top co-op mode. If you have the hard currency, Wii fit is a good way to stop your sister moaning about putting on Xmas fat and make her actually do something about it. Footie fans will be pleased with either Fifa 09 or Pro Evolution Soccer 2009, but if you want some top class sports fun, pick up NHL 09, which is possibly the fastest and most accessible sports game on the market.
The Budget folks: Games are bloody pricey, but with so many old ones now available at budget prices, it might be a good idea to fill someone's stocking with the classics they've not got round to playing. With its substandard sequal World at War dominating the charts, it's a good time to pick up the seminal Call of Duty 4 at a budget rate. Alternately, check out the various virtual consoles. One of the best deals has to be Portal: Still Alive, one of the most revolutionary titles in recent years and also one of the most accessible, all for just over a fiver!
Avoid: Games publishers love Christmas because they can package up their worst games in shiny boxes and still expect mum to buy them. Here are a few things to avoid for those of you out there perusing the games merchants for gift ideas. Wii Music, with its poor controls, tinny music and weak track list, is a definite no go; don't go buying Wii games just for the sake of it. Also be wary of Spiderman: Web of Shadows. It's getting a lot of media coverage, most of it bad. If your loved one loves Spidey, then check out one of the earlier titles at half the price.
So no, it won't be a white Xmas, yes turkey is bland, and no it's not fun watching respected relatives get too drunk. However, at least now you should have some games to play until this whole Xmas nonsense blows over.
Wishing you and yours all the best this holiday season,
Your pals at Square-Go.