If you're looking for the console with the best collection of first-person shooters and an enormous online community to play them with, the Xbox 360 is the console you're looking for. The platform has a ton of great titles in its library, many of which have reached the discounted "Platinum Hits" status. Here's some of our suggestions for what you'll need if you're picking up a 360 for a new owner.
Hardware
The basic version of the Xbox 360 and, appropriately enough, the cheapest. The biggest thing missing from this package is a hard drive (it does include 256MB of internal memory for game saves) -- a pricey accessory you'll need if you plan on downloading numerous games and other content from the Xbox Live Marketplace. Also, it lacks an HD-compatible output cable -- another additional purchase you'll need to make to optimize your games' visuals. Still, if you're just looking for the cheapest way of getting your hands on a 360, this is it.
If you're just getting started with the Xbox 360, this is definitely the version we suggest you pick up. Not only does it come with a 120GB hard drive (more space than you could ever need!), this year's holiday edition also comes packaged with two games: LEGO Batman (a multiplayer action game) and Pure (an off-road racing game).
Listen, if you're purchasing this console for discerning adults, they've probably also asked for Modern Warfare 2. This bundle, though significantly more expensive than its brethren, comes with a copy of the game and an extra controller, plus a 250GB hard drive. Nothing brings holiday cheer quite like spawn-camping with the family.
Games
One of the best video games of the current console generation. Incredible atmosphere, a gripping story, exciting first-person combat and, oh yeah, telekinesis.
When it comes to lengthy games, you can't really get more bang for your buck than Oblivion. Your loved one will spend over one hundred hours exploring the fantasy environs of Tamriel -- which may make them less willing to conduct any holiday socializing. Replace "fantasy" with "post-apocalyptic D.C.," and you might also consider Fallout 3: Game of The Year Edition ($59.99) [compare prices].
One of the first "killer apps" on the console, Gears of War remains one of the best 360 games to date. Or, make the leap to the somewhat pricier sequel ($39.99) [compare prices].
GTA IV is a deep, lengthy action game with a great cast of characters and a fully realized digital version of New York City. However, as the newsman on TV has repeatedly told you, it's really not for the kids.
The latest installment in the ridiculously lucrative franchise, ODST offers a solid single-player campaign and a cornucopia of multiplayer modes. For a slightly cheaper Halo experience, try plain ol' Halo 3 for just $39.99 [compare prices].
Yet another multiplayer first-person shooter -- however, this one has a slightly larger focus on four-player cooperative action. Also, there's a pretty strong focus on zombies.
Another great RPG with a gripping story and unforgettable deep space setting. A few minor gameplay flaws may have soured reviews when it first came out -- but for $20, it's hard not to recommend Mass Effect.
Five games for $20? Five incredible first-person shooters, including Joystiq's 2007 Game of the Year, Portal? You'd have to be a crazy person not to buy this. Absolutely crazy.
You might be able to find a bundle for the original Rock Band for a bit less, but if not, $99.99 is a pretty fair price to pay. You get a wireless drum kit, a microphone, a wireless guitar and a copy of one of the most entertaining party games of all time.
Yeah, the 360 isn't exactly riddled with kid-friendly games. However, Rare's pinata-farming simulator is fun, addicting and, best of all, doesn't feature any violence to speak of. Unless you happen to find the smashing of small, paper mache animals distasteful.
Accessories
You'll need these to make purchases on the Xbox Live Marketplace without a credit card, where you'll find all manner of incredible games and expansion packs for the titles listed above.
If you settled for the Xbox 360 Arcade SKU, this is a pretty necessary hardware bundle that includes a 20GB hard drive, a 3-month subscription to Xbox Live and a headset. A wise purchase.
If you're going to buy an additional controller, you definitely need to go with this amazing bundle. Comes with a wireless controller and four amazing Xbox Live Arcade titles. A total steal.
Walmart has a solid deal on an extra controller and a battery-charging cable -- which, believe us, more than pays for itself in the cash you'd normally be dropping on AAs.
If the recipient of your gift wants to play games online, they're going to need an Xbox Live Gold subscription. You can get these online through the console itself -- or, if want something wrappable, pick up one of these cards from most electronics retailers.
