Fathers' Day Gifts for the Game-Playing Dad

Let's face it: Just because your dad is a grown up doesn't mean he wants to act like one all the time.
And, especially if your dad is under 50 (and maybe even if he's not,) if he owns a computer or a game system, he may like to play games online or onscreen. For your Father's Day gift this year, why not give Dad the gift of some real gaming fun?

If your dad is a serious, button-downed type, you might want to go with a more traditional Father's Day gift. But if your dad has grown up playing video games, here are a few gift ideas that he will almost certainly like better than a shirt or a tie.

Probably, the hottest game out right now is Grand Theft Auto, and since Dad is old enough that his moral values are already formed, if he likes games that are action-packed and doesn't mind violence, this game is for him. It's an unusual Father's Day choice, and if it's for a father with young kids at home, he'll need to play it when they're in bed or out of the house, because this is not a kid-friendly game. You can find it wherever games are sold or at Amazon.com, at around $60.

If Dad is less violent in his gaming taste and still has some rock and roll in his genes, let him relive his teenage fantasies with Guitar Hero. The latest version, Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock will let your dad form his own rock and roll legend, while driving your mom and the rest of the family up the wall. It is widely available, and will set you back about $70.

Too much for your budget, or not your father's taste?

In that case, consider a subscription to a gaming magazine.

Electronic Gaming Monthly is a very popular one, and features articles and tips for the latest games for various gaming systems. Amazon.com has it for $19.97 for a year's subscription.

If your Dad does his gaming online, Games for Windows might be a nice choice. It comes out monthly, and focuses on exactly what the title says: games for Windows. A subscription will run you about $20 for a year, as well.

Or, if your Dad was a kid or teen in the 70's, give him a real step back in time with Atari: The 80 Classic Games in One. He'll get a kick out of seeing and hearing old favorites like Battlezone, Warlords, Millipede, and even Pong! Amazon has it listed for $8.99, so it's a real bargain, and it should be available at gaming stores everywhere as well.

So, give your Dad a Father's Day gift of some fun and relaxation this year, and a chance to shed that grown up exterior and get in touch with the kid inside. He'll thank you for it!