Magna Halo

Magna Halo

Game Podunk's 2009 Holiday Shopping Guide: Xbox 360

Written by Podunker:skygear75

It's easy to see that video games make perfect gifts and the best time to shop for those lucky people on your receiving list would be now. With retailers preparing for Black Friday and Cyber Monday as Thanksgiving and Christmas fast approaches, chances are, you've already seen some great offers. But let's not decide on anything just yet. After all, what fun is it to gift-giving if that special gamer doesn't enjoy it right?

Before you ponder about what games to buy, you first need to decide on the platform. Since majority of games are on multiple systems, we took a special note on titles that are more exclusive to a particular console. So, for those Xbox 360 owners that you're making a buy-list for or maybe even a want-list for yourself, Game Podunk recommends the following:

Left 4 Dead 2 - $59.99 - Like action and zombies? Then don't miss out on this fast paced hit sequel with more weapons, new missions, and better developed characters. You don't even have to play the first Left 4 Dead to enjoy this critically acclaimed first person shooter. That's because the game plays on the same storyline with improved features like the AI Director 2.0, which dynamically changes your environment and the number of enemies based on player's performance. If you're too chicken to face the massive undead on your own, there's good news! The game offers one of the best multiplayer co-op experiences. You can partner with another player offline or team up with 4-8 gamers online and strategize your attacks. Depending on who you play with, each campaign will play out differently which raises replay values to an already addicting game. If you like survival horror and work well in a team, don't pass this up!

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Halo 3 ODST – $59.99 - This might be just another Halo game, but to the Halo addict, that's enough reason to want it. ODST expands on Halo 3 with new campaigns, story, weapons, characters, maps, and cities. The game is decently reviewed and a great standalone, meaning you can get right into the action without having completed the original Halo 3. There's also a new multiplayer co-op mode known as Firefight, where you and a team of up to 4 players will intensely hold off as many incoming Covenant troops as possible. Definitely has high replay value if played right with a good group of tactical people. Though the new contents in ODST is a bit short (only 5-8 hours of game-play), the story makes a great addition to the Halo Universe. So if you're looking out for a special Halo junkie, keep an eye on this one!

Magna Carta 2 – $59.99 - Since we don't see many traditional Japanese role playing games on the Xbox 360, take a particular note of Magna Carta 2. Like its PS2 predecessor, the characters and the environment designs are amazing and even more so when viewed on this generation's console. The dynamic combat system is also worth mentioning as it uniquely combines the familiar strategy-turn-base with real time. Though there's a bit of mixed reviews on the game's control scheme and storyline, Magna Carta 2 proves to be a solid JRPG. If you're shopping for fans of the genre, this aesthetic and pleasing game should entertain for over 40 hours.

Forza Motorsport 3 – $59.99 - Let's face it… we all want extravagant and exotic cars at some point, but not all of us can afford the luxury. So if you want the next closest thrill of taking that dream car for a ride, inexpensively of course, get Forza Motorsport 3. The graphics are stunningly sharp, capturing so much realism in fine details for over 400 makes and models from leading manufacturers. After you customize and tune everything to your liking, take the wheel to over 100 famous international tracks and enjoy the breathtaking scenery and sound. Whether you're steering, drifting, or braking, the vehicle realistically performs to your techniques and even adjusts the support feature to your skill level. Simply put, look no further if you want to experience the most accurate driving simulation to date.

Assassin's Creed II – $59.99 - Ever wondered what it'd be like to leap across the architectures of Italian Renaissance as a deadly assassin? How about meeting and using the very weapons made by Leonardo Da Vinci? Well, now you can do all this and more when you mission through Ubisoft's highly anticipated game of the year. If you were patient enough to complete the first Assassin's Creed, you'll notice much has been improved in this sequel. Players will explore a beautiful open world that tells of an epic story with enhanced game-play options, including the ability to upgrade weapons and armors, perform new combat techniques, complete side quests, and more. With critics and fans giving high ratings, Assassin's Creed II is one of the biggest action and adventure game to look forward to this holiday.

Other Honorable Mentions:

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2
Dragon Age: Origins
Grand Theft Auto: Episodes From Liberty City
Brutal Legend

About the Author

Game Podunk is an avid game community boosting positive gaming while helping gamers make informed decisions related to the changes of the industry.  What does positive gaming mean to you? Join our community to discuss now.

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