Top New Video Games for Christmas 2009
Choosing a game according to genre and age
If you didn't already know, October is the one month that gamers look forward to most during the year, because it's the time all major video game releases are launched annually. And, if you have a gamer on your Christmas list, they will no doubt be hoping to find a few of their favourites under the tree this Holiday Season!
Whether you are a seasoned gamer, or simply a lost soul looking for some Christmas gift advice on the top games of 2009, you have come to the right place. We have identified the biggest games of 2009 for kids, teens, fitness buffs and everyone in between, with the help of the experts from thesource.ca. Read on for top game gift ideas for Wii, Playstation, and Xbox.360.
Note: In this article, you will come across an ESRB rating for each game mentioned. The ESRB is an organization that evaluates new video games in order to determine the ages for which they are most suitable. This is how they are rated:
EC: Early Childhood
E: Everyone
E10+: Everyone 10+
T: Teen
M: Mature
RP: Rating Pending
Console Types
Choosing a video game console comes down to the type of games or activities you are interested in. Many are available for all three consoles, some for the handheld consoles like Nintendo DS or Sony's PSP, some that are specific to one console in particular.
Nintendo's Wii is widely appreciated for its family oriented games and physical interaction. It has a large selection of games for all ages. Its downside is that the quality of its graphics cannot compare to Sony's Playstation 3 or to Microsoft's Xbox 360.
For shooter game amateurs, PS3 is considered to be the console to beat because of the high quality graphics. These types of games are not considered suitable for younger kids though. Xbox 360 also offers high quality graphics, but their selection of games is much larger and offers more choices for teens.
Genres
Platformer Games
These games challenge the player to complete a course by jumping from suspended platforms or climbing over obstacles - using a jump button - while collecting items and defeating enemies.
Top 3 Releases of 2009:
Where the Wild Things Are – Rated E
The game is based on the “Where the Wild Things Are” story (recently released as a major motion picture) and takes you on an adventure through the Wild Things' island. You will solve puzzles, overcome obstacles and battle evil creatures, all the while joining forces with the Wild Things for a good time! Available for: Wii, DS.
A boy and his blob – Rated E
The story is about a boy and his blob. The boy is trying to save the inhabitants of Blobolonia from an evil emperor by solving puzzles, defeating monsters and using his blob to get through 40 treasure-filled levels of play. Both Gamespot.com and users give this game 8 out of 10 or higher. Available for Wii only.
Ratchet & Clank Future 2: A Crack in Time – Rated E10+
Once again, the future lies in the hands of Ratchet and Clank. Clank has disappeared and Ratchet races to save his best friend from the hands of Dr. Nefarious. This time around, our two heroes will finish what they started in Ratchet & Clank: Tools of Destruction and Quest for Booty. Are they going to make it? Available for: PS3.
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Action, Fighting and Battle Games
Action games are the most popular and broadest of the gaming genres. They require quick reflexes and reactions to overcome obstacles, defeat enemies or win battles. Fighting games are a sub-genre of action games and consist of one-on-one combat such as boxing or wrestling.
Top 3 Releases of 2009:
Assassins Creed 2 – Rated M
Assassin's Creed 2 is an epic story about family, vengeance and conspiracy taking place in Renaissance Italy. You are Ezio, a master assassin who takes on one of Florence's most powerful families. This second Assassins Creed is guaranteed to surprise and challenge players, just like the first one did.
WWE Smackdown VS Raw 2010 – Rated T
Get into the world of WWE wrestling in 2010's version of the game. A Superstar roster, franchise improvements, and advanced creation tools will get you deeper than ever into the world of superstar wrestling. You can even go online to share content with other WWE fans. Users have given this game an 8.5 out of 10 or higher. Available for: DS, PSP, PS3, Wii, Xbox 360.
Spongebob Truth or Square – Rated E
In Spongebob Truth or Dare, the goal is to find the missing Krabby Patty formula before Krusty Krab's Eleventy-Seventh anniversary. You will go through 10 levels reminiscent of the show's best episodes solving puzzles, discovering pathways, and defeating villains. Available for: DS, Wii.
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Other New Action, Fighting and Battle Releases to Consider:
- Brutal Legend
- Naruto Shippuden: Ninja Destiny 2
- Bakugan
- Super Hero Squad
- Star Wars Battlefront: Elite Quadron
- Star Wars: The Force Unleashed Ultimate
- Fairytale Fights
- Naruto Shippuden: Clash of Ninja Revolution
- Chaotic
- James's Camerons Avatar
- Saboteur
- Darksiders
Adventure
Adventures games are one of the oldest gaming genres. Graphics play a big part in this genre and so does puzzle solving. Adventure games do not use confrontation or fast-paced action, which means that they are more accessible to beginners.
Top 3 Releases of 2009:
Lego Indiana Jones 2: The adventure Continues – Rating Pending
LEGO Indiana Jones is back with a continuation of the first action-packed adventure. You can choose to battle your way through your favorite movie moments or customize levels by building them yourself. In this one, you impersonate Dr. Jones as he goes through he jungles of South America. Available for: Xbox 360, PS3, Wii, PSP, DS.
Jonas – Rated E
Have you always dreamed of becoming a pop star? Discover if you have what it takes to juggle school, friends and a career with the new Jonas Brothers video game. Your adventure will take you through every aspect of a pop star's life, from stage performances to daily life. Just make sure to keep an eye out for your adoring fans! Available for DS.
Rabbids Go Home - Rated E10+
This time around, the Rabbids are trying to go back home to the moon. Their plan: collect as much human stuff as possible, and throw it into a pile that must ultimately get high enough to reach the moon. Unfortunately for the Rabbids, the Humans are trying to exterminate them with the Verminators. Will you be able to get the Rabbids home? Available for: Wii, DS.
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Other New Adventure Releases to Consider:
- Scooby-doo! First Frights
Action-Adventure Games
Action-adventure games mix elements from both the action and the adventure genres. They center around gathering objects, puzzle solving, and combat.
Top 3 Releases of 2009:
HEI$T – Rated M
This game takes you to San Francisco in 1969 where you become the leader of your own band of criminals. Get your team ready for the biggest HEI$T of all time by robbing banks, bars, restaurants, strip clubs and armored cars. Once your team is ready, robbing the Mint will be your last test. Available for: PS3, Xbox 360.
Mini Ninjas – Rated E10+
Mini Ninjas is a light and approachable action game. You become Hiro and your mission is to find four missing ninjas and stop an evil Samurai who is trying to take over the world. Available for: Wii, PC, PS3, Xbox360, DS.
Uncharted 2: Among Thieves – Rated T
In Uncharted 2, Nathan Drake is lured back in the treacherous world of treasure hunting. This new journey will uncover the truth behind Marco Polo's lost fleet and the Himalayan valley of Shambhala. Gamespot.com gave this game 9.5 out of 10. Available for PS3.
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Other New Action-Adventure Releases to Consider:
- Star Wars The Clone Wars: Republic Heroes
- Disney Fairies: Tinker Bell and the Lost Treasure
- Assassins Creed: Blood Lines
- Secret Saturdays: Beast
Shooter Games
Shooter games are all about weapons, whether it be guns or missiles. What differentiates the different types of shooters, like a first-person shooter vs a third-person for example, is the camera angle used to see the game. These games require good reflexes and are usually pretty violent, therefore not recommended for children.
Top 3 Releases of 2009:
Halo 3 ODST – Rated M
In this newest opus of the Halo adventures, you are a rookie in the elite squad called Orbital Drop Shock Troopers (ODST) and you are sent into New Mombasa on a recon mission. You'll have to explore new terrain and abandoned streets, and fight back the Covenant invasion. Gamespot.com gave this game a 9 out of 10. Available for Xbox360.
Dead Space Extraction – Rated M
Fantastic visuals will take you back into the Dead Space universe of the Aegis VII colony to fight the infection of Necromorphs - the mutated dead humans there to prevent you from saving the colony. Users gave Dead Space Extraction an 8.4 out of 10. Available for Wii.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 – Rated M
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 is one of the most anticipated games released this year. You are once again Sgt. Gary «Roach» Sanderson and this time around, you and your squad have to save the world from collapse by combating terrorists all over the world using modern warfare techniques. Available for: PS3, Xbox360.
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Other New Shooter Releases to Consider:
- Wet
- Rogue Warrior
- Operation Flashpoint: Dragon Rising
- Resident Evil: The Darkside Chronicles
- Left 4 Dead 2
Action Role-Playing
Role-playing games also gained popularity early, and got their start as computer games. They usually involve controlling one or more characters that grow and evolve as the player gathers items and completes tasks related to the quest. Action role-playing games also require speed and quick reflexes to advance through the game levels.
Top 3 Releases of 2009:
Fallout 3 Game of the Year Edition – Rated M
The year is 2077, and the US is pretty much destroyed from a global atomic war. Some sought refuge in Vault 101 where they live free from stress, giant insects and super mutants. One morning, you wake up to find your father gone and so you must venture into the wasteland you have never seen before, in order to find him. Users gave this game a 9.5 out of 10. Available for: PC, PS3, Xbox360.
FFCC Crystal Bearers – Rated T
It is now 1000 years since the original final fantasy and the Lilty Tribe is finally prospering. As a symbol of their dominance, the Lilty tribe launches the Alexis passenger airship that you, a powerful and feared crystal bearer named Layle, must escort. The ship is suddenly attacked by a horde of monsters and you will re-encounter an adversary who was supposed to have disappeared long ago... Available for Wii.
Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 – Rated E10+
Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 is action-packed and features heroes and villains seen in the Marvel Comics Universe. This new version is not that different from the original, but will definitely deliver in fun, whether you are a die-hard Marvel fan or just a beginner. Available for: PSP, PS3, Xbox360, Wii, DS.
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Other New Action Role-Playing Releases to Consider:
- Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days
- Dragon Age: Origins
- Star Ocean: The Last Hope
Racing or Vehicle Simulation Games
Racing games attempt to realistically recreate a racing environment or simulate the feeling of operating a vehicle like a plane or car.
Top 3 Releases of 2009:
Dirt 2 – Rated T
In this new version of Dirt, you will race in canyons, jungle trails, city stadiums and everything in between on 6 levels of difficulty. The races are intense and aggressive and the game offers beautiful visual presentations and a great soundtrack. Users gave this game a 9 out of 10. Available for: PS3, Wii, PSP, Xbox360.
Forza Motorsport 3 – Rated E
Microsoft's widely successful customizable racing series is back again with its exotic cars and real-world tracks. The graphics are once again out of this world and you will be able to create your own driving experience according to your skills and preferences. Critics gave this game an amazing 9.3 out of 10. Available for Xbox360.
Cars Race O Rama – Rated E
In Disney's Cars video game, you will find Lightning McQueen with a whole new set of skills and customizable features in preparation for the Race-O-Rama Exhibition of Radiator Springs. You will also discover 12 new players, mini-games and high-speed tracks that will get your driving skills up to par and ready for the Exhibition. Users rated this game as 9.5 out of 10. Available for Wii.
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Other New Racing Releases to Consider:
- MX VS ATV:REFLEX
- Need for Speed Shift
- Motorstorm: Arctic Edge
- Gran Turismo PSP
- Need for Speed Nitro
Rhythm-Music Games
Rhythm or music games have quickly become one of the most popular gaming genres. Some games focus on the instrumental side of music, some on lyrics, and others on recreating the most realistic sense of being in a band as possible.
Top 3 Releases of 2009:
The Beatles: Rock Band – Rated T
Get a glimpse into the fabulous life of John, Paul, George and Ringo. The presentation of this game and vocal harmonies will help you feel like you are part of a band, while the great Beatles soundtrack will get you back for more. Available for: Xbox360, Wii, PS3.
DJ Hero – Rated T
Get the party started in your living room with DJ Hero's brand new turntable controller. You will get to create original mixes of popular songs as well as some of today's top hits from well-known artists. Available for: PS3, Wii, Xbox360.
Lego: Rock Band – Rated E10+
What happens when you combine LEGO blocks and Rock Band? A rocking good time for the whole family where you ‘Build a band and rock the universe'! Players are able to create their own band style, customize the avatars and crew as well as use all the instruments of the other Rock Band versions. Available for: DS, Wii, PS3, Xbox360.
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Other New Music Releases to Consider:
- DJ Hero Renagade
- Band Hero
- Guitar Hero Van Halen
Puzzle Games
Puzzle games are all about logic. Often, they will also involve features of an adventure-based game or educational game. A player may have to solve riddles or navigate through a maze in order to advance in the game.
Top 3 Releases of 2009:
Scribblenauts – Rated E10+
"Anything you write, you can use!". You and the hero, Maxwell, have to work together using Starites to solve puzzles and advance in the game. Available for DS.
MySims Agents – Rated E
In MySims Agents you are a special agent who searches for clues in order to solve cases and prevent Morcubus and his goons from destroying the city. Available for: Wii, DS.
Drawn to Life: The Next Chapter – Rated E
Drawn to Life: The Next Chapter brings THQ's colouring-book to the Wii. In this game you can draw your own characters before you start your journey to defeat evil and restore color to Raposa. This game has a ton of features to make your adventure as colourful as possible! Available for: Wii, DS.
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Sports Simulation and Exergames (Fitness)
Sports games have evolved quite a bit in the last few years. Hockey, Basketball and Soccer simulators have become so realistic that they now include the team management side of the sport as well.
Exergames are fitness based exercise video games. Nintendo's Wii was the first console to include physical activity in game play, but recently PS3 has also released new titles that help create and manage and exercise regimen at home.
Top 3 Releases of 2009:
NHL 2010 – Rated E10+
NHL 10 is a great follow-up to 2009's version with exciting fights and realistic grinding along the boards. Whether you practice online with other players or on your own, EA Sports' new version of NHL once again provides a great experience that should not be missed! Available for: Xbox360, PS3, Wii
Tony Hawk: Ride – Rated E10+
Step on the brand new wireless skateboard and perfect your moves without the complexity of a thousand button combinations. The new Tony Hawk game is perfect for skateboard lovers of all skill levels. Available for: Wii, PS3, Xbox360.
Biggest Loser – Rated E Available for: Wii
You have probably heard of NBC's widely popular weight loss show. In this game, the trainers from the show are there to set you up with comprehensive workouts and nutrition goals. Get ready to see the new you! Available for Wii.
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Other New Sports and Fitness Releases to Consider:
- NBA Live 10
- Jillian Michaels Fitness Ultimatum 2010
- FIFA Soccer 10
- EA Sports Active More Workouts
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