Now that the second week of January is already upon us, it's time to spend that gift money that's been burning a hole in your pocket since Christmas. Many people choose to spend their gift cash on clothes and other things of functional importance, but it's always tempting to take a look at the video games section for something to curb the boredom that is bound to hit throughout the semester. Here are some suggestions for video game purchases, separated by genre.
Shooter
Half-Life 2
Platform: P.C.
MSRP: 54.99
ESRB Rating: M (Mature)
Synopsis: Hailed as the best game ever by many game magazines, "Half-Life 2" follows the life of Gordon Freeman. Freeman, the hero in the original "Half-Life," is a scientist that is bent on saving Earth from creatures brought to this world by a strange ore. The graphical enhancements made to the sequel are noticeable. The facial expressions of each character are more defined and more realistic than its predecessor, as are the environments. This game is a sure bet for any fan of shooters.
Halo 2
Platform: Xbox
MSRP: 49.99
ESRB Rating: M (Mature)
Synopsis: The highly anticipated sequel to the Xbox's best seller is
here. The sequel follows a genetically enhanced super-soldier who is
humankind's last hope. The game features additions to the weapon
arsenal, additions to character abilities and new environments.
Another addition to the game comes in the form of vehicles. The
biggest appeal to "Halo 2" is not so much the single player game, but
the multiplayer environment. Join thousands of players from across the globe in combat with the multiplayer mode.
Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas
Platform: PS2 (Coming Soon for Xbox and P.C.)
MSRP: $49.99
ESRB Rating: M (Mature)
Synopsis: "GTA: SA" follows the life of young Carl Johnson. A man who
has been away from his home state of San Andreas for five years, he
returns after getting word that his mother has died in a drive-by shooting intended to hit his brother. His brother, Sweet, is the mastermind of the Groove Street Family Gang. This game capitalizes on the success of the GTA franchise. The game has celebrity voices including Samuel L. Jackson. It also has a soundtrack that will blast you right back to the early '90s.
Action/Adventure
Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater
Platform: PS2
MSRP: 49.99
ESRB: M (Mature)
Synopsis: The third installment to the extremely popular stealth series is a prequel to the first two. It places the gamer back in control of Solid Snake. This game follows Snake through the jungles as he tries to save the world once again from a deadly nuclear machine.
Many additions to this game, such as changing camouflage, healing Snake by way of field medical practices and the return to the character of Snake who was lost in the second game, give the game a replay value that is leaps and bounds over any other.
Ratchet and Clank: Up Your Arsenal
Platform: PS2
MSRP: 49.99
ESRB Rating: T (Teen)
Synopsis: "Up Your Arsenal" is the third installment of the popular Ratchet and Clank franchise. This franchise has brought a unique style of game play and outrageous weaponry. The game follows the heroes through many different worlds on their mission to defeat the evil Dr. Nefarious. The new installment brings along even more outrageous weapons than the first two. Even with the cartoonish setting and characters, this game brings fun for everyone.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 2: Battle Nexus
Platform: Gamecube/ PS2/ P.C./ Xbox
MSRP: $39.99
ESRB Rating: T (Teen)
Synopsis: The popular characters from the early '90s are back in the second video game installment since the revitalization of the franchise. This game improves leaps and bounds over the first one. The game has additions such as extra playable characters: Master Splinter and Casey Jones. Also there is a way to unlock the original 1989 arcade game to play on your console. The game is worth the price just to have the arcade game, which is surprisingly easier when you aren't feeding quarters into the machine.
Sports
NHL Hitz Pro
Platform: All
MSRP: $39.99
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Synopsis: This game, although released in late 2003, makes for a fun time for hockey fans. The Hitz franchise took a step in the right direction when introducing this title by letting the 3-on-3 hockey go by the wayside and making a true 5-on-5 game. It took a turn for the worst with the fighting engine though. Instead of Button mashing fighting that has been in every hockey game since the dawn of time, they went to a system that requires the user to hit a randomly selected button repeatedly. A downfall to the game but in no way does it ruin the game play. Also with a franchise mode, it allows you to follow a team from beginning to end.
Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2005
Platform: All
MSRP: $49.99
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Synopsis: Quite possibly the best golf game ever made. This game allows you to compete against the pros on fully customizable golf courses. The game also features a new engine that allows for more realistic looking characters. The game has unlockable characters and courses. The gamer can also take on the games greatest players in the "Legends Tour" mode. Also the career mode allows you to obtain sponsorships from real equipment manufacturers. This game places the gamer on the tee with your favorite golf stars. A must have for any golf enthusiast.
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