With Christmas around the corner and the shopping season in full swing, I thought I’d list a few of my top video game gift picks. Follow the links to full reviews if you want to read more.  Happy shopping!

All Ages

Wii Music
It’s a little less ‘game’ like Guitar Hero and Rock Band, and a little more like a toy CASIO keyboard. But even very young kids can wave the remote around and make music. And everyone in the family can play together.

E for Everyone/E-10
I combined these two rating together because, honestly, everything on my list is safe for all kids, even the E-10 stuff.

Super Smash Bros. Brawl (Wii)
It is a fighting game with popular Nintendo characters, but the violence is cartoony and nobody dies. The losers even clap for the winner. With so much stuff to do and unlock, Super Smash Bros. Brawl is one of the best games on the Wii, as well as one of the best overall games this year. And the whole family can play it together, too.

Animal Crossing: City Folk (Wii)
The newest game in this unique series doesn’t break any new ground, but its non-violent, relaxed paced gameplay is perfect for any kid.

We Ski (Wii)
With or without the Wii Ski Balance Board, We Ski controls great, the family can play it together, and it’s the best sports game since, well, Wii Sports!

Mario Kart Wii
It’s family friendly racing with Mario. Enough said.

Arkanoid DS
This simple ball and paddle arcade classic update on the DS had so much style and fun. I even imported the soundtrack, it was that good! Taito’s other DS update: Space Invaders Extreme, was also stellar, but I personally enjoyed Arkanoid DS a little bit more.

Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts (Xbox 360)
Kids will love building cars, boats, tanks, planes, anything they can think of. And then trying out their new creations in several action-packed challenges!

Wario Land: Shake It (Wii)
It’s classic 2-D Mario gameplay that anyone can get into.

Kirby Super Star Ultra (DS)
This update to one of the best Kirby games still holds up well after all these years. I like Kirby games better than Mario games, really.

T for Teen

Sam & Max: Season One (Wii)
You can also download this point and click adventure on the PC. Either way you play it, this rollicking quest starring the underground comic book duo will have you bursting with laughter.

Apollo Justice: Ace Attorney (DS)
It’s another point and click adventure. Who knew being a lawyer could be so much fun?

Soul Calibur 4 (Xbox 360, PS3)
Aside from Super Smash Bros, Soul Calibur 4 is one of this year’s best fighting games. It features the best graphics I’ve ever seen, a fun character creation system, and pretty smooth online play.

Tales of Vesperia (Xbox 360)
The best thing about this role playing game is that when in battle, a second, third, and even fourth person can pick up a controller and battle alongside the main player.

M for Mature
Sorry folks, I don’t have any good suggestions for the M Rating. Most M rated games just aren’t my cup of tea. I guess No More Heroes on the Wii was kind of good, but I just liked all the silly classic game and anime parodies and references in it.

And that’s all I’ve got for now. Hope this helped! Merry Christmas! –Cary

Tags: Misc