The Game Consoles to Get
With its Wii U, Nintendo has fired the first shot in the next round of the console wars. This is Nintendo’s first HD console, and cutting-edge technology fans will undoubtedly put it near the top of their holiday wish lists. Sony and Microsoft will answer, of course, but nobody knows exactly when. Still, thanks to their evolving online services and extensive software libraries, PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 are still great entertainment devices no matter what lies ahead in the next generation. And if you’re looking for a luxury stocking stuffer, you can’t go wrong with the feature-rich PlayStation Vita or kid-friendly 3DS XL.
Microsoft Xbox 360
The most popular console on the market over the last few years, the Xbox 360 is still desirable thanks to its ever-evolving subscription-based online service, Xbox Live. With a vast array of downloadable games and video services such as ESPN, Hulu Plus, Netflix and UFC, it’s a perfect console for both dedicated gamers and entertainment-minded families. An extensive back catalog of must-play games is available for bargain prices, so it’s also a perfect purchase for those who want to avoid paying $60 for brand-new games.
Several different versions are available. We recommend one of the newer models that comes with a built-in hard drive, Wi-Fi, HDMI ports and Kinect, a peripheral that allows you to play games without a controller. To gain access to the rich array of multimedia options mentioned, plan to throw down an extra $60 for a one-year Xbox Live subscription.
◄ SEE ALL GADGET GIFT GUIDES
ALL 2012 GIFT GUIDES
- FUN GADGETS AND TOYS
- 25 Gadget Gifts Under $50
- Gifts for Animal Lovers
- Smart Home Gadgets
- Great Gardener Gifts
- Gifts for Health Nuts
- Great Outdoor Gadgets
- Amazing Robot Gifts
- Can't Miss Car Gifts
- Great Kickstarter Gadgets
- Wackiest Holiday Gifts
- Gifts for Millionaires
- HOME ENTERTAINMENT
- Amazing Tech Toys
- Best Smart TVs
- Top Streaming Boxes
- Gifts for Sports Fans
- FASHION
- Top Windows 8 Laptop Gifts
- Tablet and Laptop Cases
- Perfect PC Accessories
- Which MacBook?
- Smart Watches
- TABLETS
- Hottest Holiday Tablets
- Essential Tablet Accessories
- Great iPad Cases
- Top E-book Gifts
- Best E-Reader Gifts
- Best E-books for Kids
- Android Tablets for Kids
- SMARTPHONES
- Hottest Holiday Smartphones
- Top iPhone 5 Cases
- CAMERAS
- Sweet Cameras
