Top Ten Gift Ideas for Gamers

Gaming. It doesn't matter if it's computer gaming or video game console gaming - no matter what it's still extremely popular. With the approaching holidays and so many game systems and specifics out there, finding the perfect gift for a hardcore gamer can be pretty tricky. From not knowing what games are popular to what systems are popular, as well, it can be mighty confusing. But never fear help is here. Below listed are ten hot items for the holiday season that will thrill most any gamer.

10. Nintendo DS

As things get smaller and better technologically, so does Nintendo. Nintendo released the Nintendo DS quite a while ago, but this little hand-held game is much more than just childs play. The DS (or Dual Screen) is not only entertainment but also communication, as you can type out messages on the on-screen keyboard or even through the stylus and send the messages wirelessly to other DS players. Not only that, the Nintendo DS comes with a built-in microphone to voice chat with other DS users as well as use voice controls for some of the games.

While small in size, this neat little game console has a 16 channel audio, as well as an advanced 3D graphic engine that outdo most other hand-held game systems. Now you may be asking, 'what's so special about two screens?' Well let me tell you, when you're in mid fight and you're searching for an item to help defeat a monster, the second screen comes in handy. Or while exploring use a map and continue to move without having to stop regularly to check your map.

However, the wireless local network can only hold up to 16 people and has a 30 foot range. The game system comes with a wrist strap, Stylus, AC adapter, rechargable battery pack and a screen cover. Also, atop this, Nintendo has released a lighter version of the DS called Nintendo DS Lite. Both cost just over $100 but for what this little game system is capable of, that's one decent price.

9. Final Fantasy XII

The 12th game in the series, Final Fantasy XII returns to its roots with a non-internet style gameplay. Fashioned for Sony's older game system, Playstation 2, the game already has received a rather intense fanbase since its release on October 31st of 2006. Final Fantasy XII features an Active Dimension Battle (Known as ADB) system that allows players to move smoothly between exploring and fighting, which pretty much removes any and all waiting periods that happened in Final Fantasy's previous games. This game also features cut scenes done in Dolby Pro Logic II along with CG cinematics to appear movie-like to the player. Not only this, the game is done with real-time graphics to fully emerge the player in the game. If the gamer on your list has any or all of the earlier Final Fantasy games, then this one is definitely the gaming gift to have for the holiday season.

8. World of Warcraft

If your PC Gamer doesn't already have World of Warcraft (aka WoW), then this is a MUST have. When Blizzard created World of Warcraft, they had no idea just how cult-ish this game would become. Find yourself lost in a land of fantasy, exploring different areas .. cities and wilderness galore with the actual visualization of being there. Birds fly overhead and waters flow as your character that you created from scratch wanders about, finding items and socializing.

World of Warcraft is the follow-up to the Warcraft games, but you do not need any knowledge from that series in order to play WoW. Best of all, it's easy to learn for anyone, so there's no real frustration in having to learn a lot of foreign sounding/looking commands. However, the only drawback is to play WoW online you have to pay for a monthly subscription. So if you get this game for your gamer, be sure to throw in some pre-paid time, too.

7. Burning Crusade : World of Warcraft Expansion

This expansion pack hasn't even been released yet, however, people are lining up to pre-order. So if your gamer is a die-hard World of Warcraft subscriber, then they will definitely be wanting this gift. Unfortunately, it won't be out until January of 2007, but, what better way to thrill your gamer than pre-order it for them. What does this expansion pack have that the original doesn't? Burning Crusade introduces players to two new races one which is known as the blood elf. Not only that, the game introduces Outland, the new continent that is the homeland of orcs. This pack also raises the level cap to 70, which is a thrill for any die-hard WoW player. Many places are selling out of pre-orders, so it's wise to get one as soon as you can - if you decide on this gift for the gamer.

6. Guitar Hero

When I first heard the words Guitar Hero, I didn't know what to expect. IN fact, when I saw Guitar Hero and began to learn a little about it, I was amazed at this nifty game. Guitar Hero, in fact, is a game for Playstation 2 that is controlled by a special electric guitar. The idea of the game is to work your way up the musician ladder to become the next big rock star. You can choose from 6 different characters to play, one of which is more versed in classic guitar. The game features real songs from rock legends such as Ziggy Stardust amongst others. You start your career in the traditional start for any musician: small bars and clubs. If you play well and the crowd responds favorably, you can eventually play for stadium-sized crowds. The game comes with one controller which has several controls on it. Start and Select buttons on it have been shaped into volume-like knobs and the guitar has a real working whammy bar. The game can also be played in two-person mode, so that you can have your own battle of the bands. Guitar Hero is well worth it's more expensive cost, because the controller is a lot larger than a standard Playstation controller ever could be. Who knows, you may never play your air guitar ever again.

5. XBox 360

The XBox 360 is state of the art. Smaller than the other XBox, this one weighs just over 7 pounds. However, this system is far more than just a video game console. This box carries a custom ATI graphics processor 10 MB of embedded DRAM, along with a 3.2 GHz IBM PowerPC-based CPU. (Central Processing Unit for those not familiar with terminology) Xbox 360 also integrates high-definition video, DVD movie playback, digital music, photos, and online connectivity all in one small, thin box. The XBox 360 comes with a 20GB Hard Drive and can play such popular games as Madden NFL 2006 and the long anticipated game Perfect Dark Zero. XBox 360 also has a built-in ethernet port to allow internet connection to a broadband (sorry dialup users!) connection to connect to the newly introduced XBox Live Silver. The XBox 360 package includes an Xbox 360 console, 20GB detachable hard drive, one Wireless controller, a Wireless Xbox Live headset, High-definition AV cables, an Ethernet cable, a Detachable faceplate and an Xbox Live Silver membership. XBox 360 carries a bit of a pricetag, coming in around $400 for everything mentioned.

4.Logitech G15 Gaming Keyboard

This nifty little invention is a great twist on a normal keyboard. It has an adjustable-tilt, backlit LCD display to show the gamer crucial information during game play, and also lets the gamer set timers for events. The keyboard has a folding LCD screen, which allows it to remain relatively dust free when not in use or when traveling to keep the screen safe. Another cute function on this keyboard are the blue backlit keys which are available in three brightness levels to allow for easier playing in darkened rooms. Also, this keyboard has programmable G keys, which can be used to execute complex macros or even the standard keystroke to save time. This gives you up to 54 macros per game, each key having three shift states each. Cords are also easily channeled beneath the keyboard to remove the discomfort of wires getting in the way. This keyboard comes in at just around $100 but in my opinion and from speaking with hardcore gamers, well worth it.

3. Playstation 3

Playstation 3 has already created quite the hype with people lined up for its release for days outside different stores that sell it. This game console seems to be one of the top must haves for gaming, mainly due to its specifics. Without getting too technical, the PS3 is beyond just a video game console. It also provides video chat, Internet access, digital photo viewing, and digital audio and video. It's run on an IBM "cell" processor with Nvidia graphics processor and also can be used on High Definition televisions as well as projectors. All PS3 games are encoded on CD's that have Blue-Ray disc media format, which holds up to six times the amount of a standard DVD. The controller to a PS3 is also different than other controllers - taking on what new gamers do when first playing (i.e.: jerking the controller around) with sensors, meaning when playing you play far more than just your thumbs. Your entire movements with the controller affect how you play. However, it will not feature the vibrations, because those would interfere with the sensors. PS3 already offers a slew of new games available, with intense graphics to put the player in the game. A definite consideration for christmas IF you are able to get one.

2. The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess

Nintendo Wii's release will be one of the most anticipated games for the new console. Twilight Princess returns Link to the land of Hyrule where he has been ordered by the mayor of the rural village to attend the Hyrule Summit. However, as Link enters the Twighlight Realm, he is transformed into a wolf and then captured; only to be rescued by a mysterious figure who joins him on his journey to free Hyrule from the shadows. Link will travel throughout Hyrule, exploring above land and even dark dungeons - interacting with people along the way in search of clues. Twiglight Princess incorporates old characters such as Zelda along with a few new faces to make this game worth getting for the Nintendo Wii.

1. Nintendo Wii

The most anticipated game console of the year in my eyes, the Nintendo wii (pronounced "We") incorporates a new style controller that is not only wireless, but nunchuk style. Nintendo includes a compiliation game called "Wii Sports" which has a main purpose to showcase what the remote control is capable of doing. Which basically is you can wave the controller, point for precision, feel vibrations through it as well plays sounds to make the player feel in the game. Wii contains 512 MB of internal flash memory, along with 2 USB 2.0 ports and a slot for SD memory. Instead of a standard CD tray, Wii uses a single, self-loading media bay that will play both 12-centimeter optical discs used for the new system, as well as Nintendo GameCube discs. Wii also has backwards capability, playing games from the original NES of the 80's through to the Nintendo 64, however, these games must be downloaded through a Virtual Console.

Be sure that when you're buying for your gamer, no matter what it is you choose to get, that you can guarantee getting one. The best bet is to avoid the rush and get to the stores for some of the newer items on this list, but do not forget to check online - where some places charge way under store cost. Shop around and if you can't find what the gamer could certainly use, there are countless sites online as well as stores everywhere that may be able to help you find something suitable.