Calling all gamers! Today’s Deal of the Day is especially for you! Amazon has the Xbox 360 Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 Wireless Headset with Bluetooth on special, saving you 54% off the original price of $69.99. You pay only $32.52 PLUS it ships for FREE with Super Save Shipping. You’re saving $37.47 on this must-have gaming essential.

The Xbox 360 Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 Wireless Headset with Bluetooth is the cool, comfortable, hands-free way to talk with friends on your Xbox 360 or while on the go! This limited edition headset features custom Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 artwork designed in collaboration with Infinity Ward and Sledgehammer Games, so you know this item won’t be around much longer since it’s limited edition. The special headset also comes with an ear loop, ear gels, a charging cradle, and custom sounds when you power up, power down or switch modes.

But that’s not all you get with the deal! An exclusive avatar that’s only available with the Limited Edition Call of Duty accessories and console is also included.

A new Xbox design, and a new Media Remote with it. When Microsoft announced the Slim Xbox 360, with a glossy case and black instead of the once proudly-displayed white matte finish, it only made sense that followup hardware would follow a similar route: slimming down and gaining a sleeker design. This holiday Microsoft released a few peripherals, one of which was the Xbox 360 Media Remote. I’ve used it since it a ton since IPTV through the Xbox became a reality, and it’s a great piece of hardware to own.

For comparison, let’s take a look at the original Xbox 360 media remote. It’s roughly the same length as the newer model, but is stockier, and has an overall larger feel. The white design is easy to see and matches original 360 consoles, but the size makes it inconvenient for a living room setting. It’s wider and thicker than almost every cable box or TV remote I’ve ever seen. Compare that to the Universal Media Remote, which is much larger and bulkier, and now you have a new king of remote controls by size alone.

The new model is thin and sleek. It combines the Universal Remote’s use-anywhere traits and the smaller size of the original Media Remote in an even smaller form factor. This new Media Remote is by no means thin at an inch thick, but it’s comfortable in the hand, far more than either two remotes before it. The button layout leaves a lot to be desired, however, depending on how you use it. As a universal remote the channel buttons are too low and video navigation (pause, play, fast forward/rewind, etc.) are too high. For Xbox 360 use, the button scheme is exceptional, though it feels better for the left hand than the right hand.

The Media Remote is much smaller than the universal remote. Unfortunately I've lost mine, so no direct size comparison

My bigger concern isn’t with the remote so much, but the lack of proper software implementation on the Xbox 360 itself. When watching TV through the game console, it’s impossible to switch to specific channels without going through the guide or flipping through one at a time.

The overall experience of watching TV through the Xbox with just the Media Remote isn’t as great as it can be. It can easily be improved in two ways: speed up channel flipping (right now there’s a 2-5 second buffer delay between channels), and allow for a more cable TV-like viewing experience. Today it just feels too slow and too cumbersome.

At just $20, it’s more expensive than most universal remotes but a much better option for Xbox 360 owners. Even if you just have the game console, new video apps like Crackle, and streaming apps like Hulu Plus and Netflix make owning the Media Remote worthwhile. Even if it spends most of its days sitting quietly on your coffee table, this remote is a solid, simple and worthwhile purchase that you can’t regret.

Editor’s Rating:

4 out of 5 stars

Great

Bottom Line: A great remote that’s better than the original, and does everything you need for a good price.

Pros:

• Smaller, slimmer, better than the original
• Packs two prior remotes into one with a solid build and design

There’s one thing that Playstation 3 gamers have always held over the heads of Xbox 360 owners, and that is headsets. The PS3 supports Bluetooth, so any wireless headset of your choosing will work for both your phone and console. The 360, meanwhile, had only one wireless headset, from Microsoft directly, and it only functioned with the Xbox 360 (or a PC with the wireless receiver). Without building Bluetooth into the console, Microsoft solved the other problem: a multi-function headset.

The Xbox 360 Wireless Headset with Bluetooth is exactly that, a single headset with both Bluetooth and 2.4GHz built into a single device. It’s big and sleek with a glossy finish, and simple with just four buttons and a single switch. Power, connect (with the Xbox controller ring), volume rocker, and the Bluetooth/RF switch. There’s also a tiny sync button behind the earpiece.

This headset is huge. It’s more than twice the size of the Plantronics Marque M155, though the dark design doesn’t make it stand out obnoxiously, remaining large yet elegant. Until fingerprints collect on that glossy surface, that is. The large size poses another problem, one unique to most headsets: the earpiece is made to wear outside the ear. This design choice is good for gaming – after all, in-ear headsets block sound on the side they are worn on – but for standard use has no noise cancellation. Considering that the Wireless Headset w/Bluetooth is designed to work for and outside of gaming, this may prove too much for some consumers.

I tested the headset for both phonecalls and gaming, and there are two highs and lows of the device. First, switching between “game” mode and “work” mode is a simple flick of the switch. What makes it great is the coloring on the switch: when set for Bluetooth, the open section of the switch (see picture below) shows blue. When set for gaming, it shows green. I never had trouble between the two modes because of this. Second, the headset can get very loud thanks to the larger earpiece, and likewise has fairly good battery life. With on and off use I’ve managed a week of use before charging, playing on my Xbox 360, Playstation 3, and for occasional phone calls.

The lows may be the bigger worry. Once again, the size is a limiting factor because the it’s heavy. If you have sensitive ears and generally find Bluetooth headsets uncomfortable, this one will fare worse than most. I found it uncomfortable to wear after 30 minutes of continuous use, but then again I need very light sets. The second, again, is that the earpiece itself sits outside the ear. This makes the headset almost always feel like it’s sliding off even when perfectly stable, and not offering the level of comfort and security found on the traditional Wireless Headset or typical Bluetooth headsets.

The type of user who would be most interested in the Wireless Headset with Bluetooth is someone who owns multiple consoles and plays on both online, or someone who has a workstation that seats both consoles and a computer. The headset is made for the multi-tool user, the kind of person who is connected in multiple ways at once, through as many platforms as it takes. Playing on a PS3, 360, and switching between my iPhone, desktop computer, and a handful of Android phones was a cinch. Not only because most of the devices sit at one place – my workstation – but because the headset never leaves. It charges via MicroUSB like my wireless mouse, and remains on my desk with a small pile of regularly used peripherals. It’s the perfect multi-use gaming headset.

I’d prefer something smaller and lighter, because I personally don’t like heavier headsets, but even then Microsoft’s design is very solid. I recommend it to all but the most sensitive-eared users, and not to anyone who wants to just use it for telephony. The Wireless Headset with Bluetooth is made to be worn while still, seated. Not while walking about. The only thing that’s missing is a charging dock, which I’d gladly keep on a coffee table or my workplace to keep things tidy and organized.

Editor’s Rating:

3.5 out of 5 stars

Very Good

Bottom Line: The Wireless Headset with Bluetooth is an excellent option for multi-console gamers who play in one space. Great for gaming, not good for walking around on the phone with. Bulky, with good battery life.

Pros:

• Good battery life
• Simple RF/BT switch
• Great to use with multiple devices and consoles

It turns out that Amazon was totally B-S-ing us with the release date of December 31st, 2012 for the game Kinect Star Wars.  Today, we learned that it will release April 3rd, which if you recall is what we “half expected.”  On top of that, we’ve also learned that it will include five dynamic modes, allowing you to control a Speeder Bike, fight Count Dooku and Darth Vader and even boogie (yes dance) to your favorite Star Wars inspired tunes.

With five dynamic modes – Jedi Destiny: Dark Side Rising, Podracing, Rancor Rampage, Galactic Dance Off and Duels of Fate – “Kinect Star Wars” makes it possible for Star Wars fans of all ages to delve into immersive Star Wars experiences. In addition to the previously announced Jedi, Podracing and Rancor modes, Xbox 360 and LucasArts have today unveiled new additions to the game, including:

New experiences within Jedi Destiny Mode, including:

Space battles:As you travel the Galaxy to face an evil that threatens to undermine the fabric of the Republic, you’ll engage with forces of the Empire in intense space battles

Speeder Bikes and Landspeeders: Pilot iconic Speeder Bikes and Landspeeders on your epic journey

New duels:Battle opponents like Count Dooku and Darth Vader on your journey to become a Jedi

New Duels of Fate mode, a battle-by-battle experience to sharpen your Jedi skills against the Dark Side.

New Galactic Dance Off mode loaded with Star Wars-themed pop tunes where those still honing their Jedi skills can take a break to battle Darth Vader on the dance floor or bust a move “Solo style.”

Additionally, the Xbox 360 Limited Edition “Kinect Star Wars” console bundle will feature an exclusive C-3PO unlockable for Dance Mode. With these new reveals and the ability to play in 3D,

But that’s not the only good news we have for those of you holding out for the latest Star Wars game.  Major Nelson let it be known that the Star Wars Xbox 36o, the one we told you about last July, will ship on the same day, with the game, a C3PO inspired controller, Kinect camera, a 320GB hard drive and Star Wars noises for $449.  If you’re so inclined you can preorder one from Amazon right now, where upon it will show up at your door neatly wrapped in time for Easter.

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Well that’s certainly a mouthful to say out loud, but the goal with this Headset offered for $88 off from Amazon is to provide you with an earfull! This limited edition Turtle Beach gaming headset is designed with your Call of Duty fandom in mind. It is designed around Modern Warfare 3 and is completely wireless while providing 7.1-Channel surround sound audio. It has a tough and militaristic body, while having presets for voice chat commands for MW3 as well as compatibility for both Playstation 3 and Xbox 360. Dolby Digital surround sound mixed with these massive 50mm drivers give you bone shattering audio and explosions and of course plenty of clarity so you can hear all your team mates perfectly. If you want gear that is both powerful and stylish to your tastes than this limited edition deal is for you!

You can get this headset for $211.01, which is $88 off the retail price!  S&H is free

The Star Wars brand will echo into eternity. Ok, it might be an exaggeration, but the brand is iconic and to this day could sell ice to eskimos. Unfortunately, the Star Wars video games, at least of recent on the latest generation of consoles has been lack luster. Hopefully that will now change as Lucasarts has finally announced the release date of Kinect Star Wars.

This game will incorporate Microsoft’s Kinect camera allowing gamers to finally fully emerse themselves in Jedi action without a controller. Players will be able to slice and dice their foes by cutting the air with a would be sword as well as move objects utilizing the “force” just by raising their hands in front of them.

Based on the demo video above, it looks like the game runs on a wire system, which means once you defeat an enemy you’ll automatically walk to your next destination, where upon you might be faced with a “force” task or jump that can be achieved by performing the correct hand or body gesture. At the end of the day it’s probably not the Star Wars game for the hardcore fan, but it should provide some much needed fun for those looking to blow the dust off their Kinect.

Kinect Star Wars will release December 31st, 2012 and is currently available for preorder from Amazon for $50.

Since that date is so far away, we’re half expecting the game to change as well as the release date (it doesn’t make sense to release it after Xmas).

Now that we’ve hit 2012 we can expect to see some nice reduced prices on our favorite consoles. And that’s just what we found here with Best Buy’s take on the Xbox 360 with Kinect bundle which is only $349.99! This version of the xbox is the top model, including a large 250GB hard drive, the up-to-date slim black design and Kinect all included in the box. As most of you know the Kinect allows for full motion controls in pretty much all aspects including cameras and microphones. The Xbox 360 has a huge library of thousands of games, and these include the hit titles: The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, Call of Duty Modern Warfare 3, Gears of War 3, Portal 2 and much more with new ones coming out every day. Be sure to hit this deal up while it lasts!

This is the best deal we’ve seen for this bundle.  It’s $349.99, which is $50 off the retail price and includes Free S&H.  Tax applies in many states

Today’s Deal of the Day comes to us from Walmart and is great for gamers or those who have yet to get their hands on the highly popular Xbox 350 gaming console. The offer includes the Microsoft Xbox 360 250GB Holiday Console Bundle with an extra 15 months of Xbox LIVE Gold (you already get three months free) and a game of your choice for just $299 plus $5.91 for shipping. You’re saving at least $44 (depending on the game title you choose) than the lowest total price if you purchased the items separately.

Included in today’s Deal of the Day is the Xbox 260 250GB Console, Wireless Controller, Combined 15-month LIVE card credit, “Halo Reach” Game, “Fable III” Game, and a third game of your choice. You can choose from 26 Bonus Games with titles like “Bioshock 2,” “Ace Combat 6: Fires of Liberation,” and so many more!

The internal 250GB hard drive included with the Xbox 360 console allows you to save your games, store TV shows and more from the Xbox LIVE Marketplace. You can also even save full Xbox 360 games on the hard drive. Plus, with built-in Wi-Fi, it’s easy to connect to Xbox LIVE to access tons of great entertainment from HD movies and TV shows to live sports. Already included with the purchase of the console is a free 3-month subscription to Xbox LIVE Gold and the bundle provides you with an extra 12 months so that you can experience the best in gaming and entertainment that includes unlimited online multi-player gaming and more.

Christmas is only days away, so if you have any last minute gifts to grab, you better do it ASAP! For those that have Star Wars fans on their gift list, we’ve compiled some of the geekiest gifts for those that can’t get enough the sci-fi saga. From small stocking stuffers to LEGO Star Wars sets for diehard collectors, we’ve got something for Star Wars fans of all ages!

25. Star Wars Wampa Rug

Fight your own Wampa just like how Luke Skywalker did (in the mountain caves of Hoth) with this unique Wampa Rug. Great for any bachelor pad or collector’s room!

24. Han Solo Star Wars Bobblehead

A true Star Wars fan will appreciate any gift relating to the sci-fi saga and this Han Solo Star Wars Bobblehead would make for a great stocking stuffer!

23. Star Wars Han Solo Carbonite Chocolate

Give any Star Wars fanatic (or sweets lover) a rich and chocolate Han Solo Carbonite Chocolate mold. The officially licensed Star Wars edible delight is a great stocking stuffer or zany gift to give this holiday season.

22. Star Wars In Your Pocket Talking Keychain

Because being a Star Wars fan means taking the force everywhere you go, this Star Wars In Your Pocket Talking Keychain is a must for any diehard fan! With six classic Star Wars sound bites from an array of characters, fans of all ages will appreciate such an awesome stocking stuffer come Christmas day!

21. Star Wars Vader’s Dark Side Roast Coffee

There’s nothing like waking up in the morning and having a great cup of Joe that’s (unofficially) endorsed by Darth Vader. A pack of Star Wars Vader’s Dark Side Roast Coffee will brighten any caffeine junky who is in tune with the force’s day.

20. Star Wars Cookbook

Learn to cook Star Wars style with this cookbook of 25 recipes inspired by the Star Wars movies…great for that Star Wars chef you know!

19. Star Wars Limited Edition Moleskins Notebooks

The world’s best notebooks have met the force! Each Star Wars Limited Edition Moleskins Notebooks comes with a mini poster reproduction of the OG movie poster, making this gift a two-for-oner!

18. Kotobukiya Star Wars: Darth Vader “Final Battle” ArtFX Statue

Based on the finale of Return of the Jedi, this Kotobukiya Star Wars: Darth Vader “Final Battle” ArtFX Statue recreates Vader’s armor, costume and lightsaber to the “T!” It also features multiple light up parts like LEDs in his chest, waist and lightsaber!

17. Fathead Death Star Wall Cling

Not sure what to give that Star Wars collector in your life? Well fret no more by gifting them with this super big Fathead Death Star Wall Cling that they can place anywhere they’d like.

16. Star Wars Lightsaber Pen

Even thought it’s just a set of pens, the fact that they’re Star Wars Lightsaber Pens will make them a keepsake they will hold on to for as long there’s ink! The pens are available in green, blue and red and come in a collector’s box.

15. Custom R2-D2 Xbox 360 by Major League Mods

What Star Wars gamer wouldn’t love a custom R2-D2 Xbox 360 by Major League Mods?! This baby will be an ultimate gift for any diehard gamer!

14. Star Wars Mimobot Thumb Drives

Any Star Wars fan will rejoice unwrapping the cutest storage devices in the galaxy with these Mimobot Thumb Drives that feature various character favorites from the movies. The 4GB thumb drives are compatible with any OS and you can choose from a variety of characters like Darth Vader, Yoda, Boba Fett and more!

13. Star Wars Rebel Pilot Headphones

Designed to look like real Rebel Pilot headgear, these Rebel Pilot Headphones feature the exact colors and insignias from those in the movie. The lightweight headphones are compatible with most MP3 players, iPods, and portable and console games with their standard 3.5mm audio jack.

12 LEGO Star Wars Motorized Walking AT-AT

The All-terrain Armored Transport from the Star Wars movies can now walk back and forth into battle thanks to a new Power Functions Systems, making it the perfect gift for collectors!

11. LEGO Star Wars Mini Alarm Clock

The digital clocks with posable arms and legs will be truly appreciated when opened on Christmas morning for any enthusiast. The adorable LEGO Star Wars Mini Alarm Clocks come in Darth Vader, Boba Fett and a Stormtrooper.

10. Darth Vader USB Hub

The 4-port Darth Vader USB bust will help connect your gadgets to the Dark Side and make a wonderful gift for that Star Wars geek in your life.

9. Darth Vader Bread Imprinting Toaster

Make Star Wars part of your breakfast with the Darth Vader Bread Imprinting Toaster! Features include adjustable toast temperature setting, standard two slot pop-up action and a Darth Vader impression on your toast!

8. Custom AT-AT Walker Bag

The chick messenger AT-AT Walker Bag would be a great gift for that Star Wars fan who is in desperate need to carry around their computer in something as cool as this bag.

7. Star Wars Surround System Mod with Death Star Subwoofer by Major League Mods

Another from the creative minds at Major League Mods for the ultimate Star Wars fan who wants to have the coolest audio equipment in the galaxy comes their Star Wars Surround System Mod with Death Star Subwoofer. The custom set’s coolest part has to be the Death Star subwoofer. The pair of Tie-fighters each has mid-range and dome tweeters and the Darth Vader iPod holder is a must!

6. Star Wars Wii Darth Vader Sensor Bar Holder

Trying to place that Wii sensor bar can by tricky, but for a Star Wars fan it’s easy with this Star Wars Wii Darth Vader Sensor Bar Holder. Darth Vader’s lightsaber gently holds up the sensor bar while maintaining its full range.

5. Star Wars Force FX Lightsabers

No Star Wars fan should go without their own lightsaber and these authentic ones that are licensed by LucasFilm will do mighty fine!

4. Star Wars Science Death Star Planetarium

The table top Death Star Planetarium opens up to become a planetary projector that displays the cosmos on the ceiling, with many viewing options that include Earth’s own night sky or the many world that make up the Star Wars galaxy.

3. LEGO Star Wars Millennium Flacon

This LEGO set is a must have for any collector and is based on the Death Star escape scene of Episode IV: A New Hope.

2. Star Wars: The Force Unleashed II Platinum Edition for PlayStation 3

Every Star Wars gamer should have this Star Wars: The Force Unleashed II Platinum Edition for PlayStation 3 wrapped under the tree. The Collector’s Edition has a few extra goodies, including a collectible steelbook, 3 exclusive challenge mode levels, exclusive Ralph McQuarrie concept “Deak Starkiller” skin, exclusive lightsaber crystal, Starkiller 2GB flash drive designed by Mimobot and digital art book.

1. LEGO Star Wars Death Star

This LEGO Death Star is an ultimate piece for any collection and features 3,803 pieces, making for hours of LEGO fun! It’s one ultimate gift for collectors of all ages.

Now when you grab an Xbox Kinect 4G console from the microsoft store you also get $75 off your next purchase!

For a limited time you can get an extra benefit from purchasing a new Xbox 360 Kinect system for the holidays. Now at a super low price but now you can get $75 off your next purchase, making this console effectively only $125! As you all know by now the Xbox 360 is Microsoft’s big hit gaming console which gives you access to thousands of great titles including the likes of Call of Duty, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, Battlefield 3 and many many more. As mentioned this model includes the Kinect which gives you the ability to jump into the game with full body tracking and feel the burn throughout many stages of play. The kit also comes with 4GBs of internal memory which can be upgraded if you choose in the future. A perfect gift opportunity!

You can get this Xbox 360 for $199.99 with a $75 credit go towards future purchases.  S&H is free

It’s one thing to play with the fishes, another to take a swim with them.  Catch our drift?  But you’ll be doing neither with this bad ass Xbox 360 mod. Before you get too excited, though, you should know it’s not a working Xbox 360.  It’s been gutted and replaced with, you guessed it, coral and more.  In fact, it contains live fish, crabs, snails, and shrimp.

The maker, Spencer of Blue World Aquariums, didn’t toss everything out, though.  He used the original power supply and outfitted it with low voltage LED lighting that changes color.  And in case you were wondering, the water volume is just .45 gallons and the tank is made from glass, measuring 6″ long, 8″ tall, and 2.5″ wide.

It’s just too bad that the Xbox 360 doesn’t actually, or should we say still play games.  Because if it did, this would be the world’s most amazing Xbox 360 mod, as well as the most hap-hazardous to you and your surrounding equipment.

You may have heard. Gaming is one of today’s most expensive hobbies. Games for major platforms like the Xbox 360 or Playstation 3 cost $60 each, while Wii and PC games are generally $50 a pop. Mobile games are cheaper, but for big, cinematic experiences, players need to be sitting at their couch or at their computer, facing down hordes of demons, zombies or whatever else comes their way.

So what games can you get for your significant other, for your kids or parents, or for friends? We’ve got a great list of titles you should pick up, but just make sure they don’t already have it!

Xbox 360 Exclusive Games

Gears of War 3

It promised to be one of the biggest action titles of the year, and developer Epic Games pulled through on that promise. Gears of War 3 is an amicable conclusion to the Xbox 360 sci-fi saga, one that includes a fun, sordid campaign and several excellent multiplayer modes that continue to excite even months later. You don’t want to pass on this.

Forza Motorsport 4

Forza Motorsport 3 was huge, with over 400 cars and a disc just to install a ton of content. Forza 4 does all of that and more, with better photorealistic graphics, more cars and tracks, Kinect functionality, and the same great racing. If there’s a racing game to get this holiday, it’s Forza 4.

Dance Central 2

The original Dance Central was revolutionary; it took the dancing games we all wanted to enjoy on the Wii and made dancing in front of a TV fun. Whether it’s to work out, to learn some dance moves, or to make a fool of yourself at a party, Dance Central 2 ups the ante with two-players dancing side-by-side and a slew of new songs to get jiggy with. I wouldn’t call it kid-friendly; most of the tracks are fairly explicit (no bad words, but there is plenty of questionable content), though you’re likely to hear them on the radio nonetheless. Games like Dance Central are the reason to own a Kinect.

Halo: Anniversary

The game that brought the Xbox into the limelight returns, completely revamped with new HD graphics, online coop, and new game modes available in last year’s Halo: Reach. It may not look quite right to play the old classic with such updated graphics (I myself just love the old-school blocky textures), and the game isn’t an exact duplicate. Grizzled ancients will have new secrets to hunt and unlock while younger gamers who missed the original can give the game that started it all a serious go. For $40 it’s a great buy, even if you own the original Halo: Combat Evolved like I do because of the improved resolution and the chance to play it over Xbox Live.

Playstation 3 Exclusive Games

Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception

If there’s one definitive franchise for the Playstation 3, it’s Uncharted. The first title, Drake’s Fortune, was great, but had a lot of room to grow. The second, Uncharted 2: Among Thieves, quickly became a fan favorite, and the third, Drake’s Deception, is a stunning cinematic experience. A stunning single-player campaign, a fabulously fun cooperative play mode and a different yet still bombastic multiplayer make Drake’s Deception a must-buy, for the few who don’t have it already. Because if you don’t, you are surely missing out. It’s one of the few games where you can actually enjoy watching someone else play, and never picking up a controller yourself.

Infamous 2

There are few games that inspire the feeling of “I wish I could do that in real life” more than Infamous 2, at least for me every time I see a power line. While the original was a strong game, Infamous 2 picks action up a notch and gives players not only several different massive cities to explore, but the ability to take on player-created missions, and even make their own. That, along with some very fun DLC, makes Infamous 2 a must-have.

The Ico & Shadow of the Colossus Collection

Both Ico and Shadow of the Colossus are incredible games, both ahead of their time and timeless. I sadly missed both when they released back for the PS2, but caught up and am so glad I did. Both of these games are just incredible, the kind that make you gape in wonder, that make you constantly feel astounded. Your kids may hate you because both games feel slow, with limited action going on at any given point of time, but few games ever manage to reach the level of sophistication and artistry these two do. Bundling them together with improved graphics is just a side bonus.

Great Multi-Console Games

Batman: Arkham City

The return of the Dark Knight this decade has just been astounding. First two (and soon a third) film, then an amazing game, and now a kickass sequel. Batman: Arkham City is not just a romp around a fine prison; it’s a full-scale town to silently stalk through. Arkham City is a definite best-buy for any player, not only because the game is just so fun, but because many gamers missed it in the flood of holiday games. Don’t let this one pass you by.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3

It’s big. Everyone wants it. It’s Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3. In fact, if you don’t already have it, the only question is why not? We loved it, all your friends are playing it, and unless you’re stuck in Skyrim (see below), there’s no reason Modern Warfare 3 shouldn’t be in your game collection.

Rage

As good and bad as some games are, few are as jam-packed with excellent content and top-of-the-line features as Rage. It’s got a lot of holes to plug, and a lot of minor gripes that will annoy. But I guarantee that it‘s not only an excellent first person shooter, but that it really pushes the bounds of what it means to be a shooter. Rage may not be the greatest game to come out this year, but it will certainly open your eyes to the possibilities of future games, and be exciting the whole while. Just don’t forget to save often.

Portal 2

The best puzzle game this year, period. It’s bigger, smarter, and has a deeper story than the original, plus room for two players with double the portal action. Coop alone makes Portal 2 a great buy. Free future updates only guarantee that you’ll want to keep it.

Battlefield 3

Modern Warfare 3 may own the multiplayer Rambo-style of gaming, but Battlefield 3 is for the team-players, the ones who will grab their friends for an hour-long bout against an equally intelligent group for serious, vehicle-filled combat. Battlefield is for console strategists. Feel free to run and gun, but unless that’s your specialty, your team can definitely use another great member of the crew. Be it.

Deus Ex: Human Revolution

As a sleeper hit, Human Revolution isn’t quite the game that the original Deus Ex was, but that doesn’t take away from the game any. It pits players in the same neo-techno future, with body augmentations, incredible combat maneuvers, and multiple ways to play the game, including stealth, engineering, and soldier. It’s one game that’s easy to miss, but don’t. There is so much to do in the big city, it’s like a miniature RPG.

Rayman: Origins

Rayman: Origins is one of those really great games that everyone in the family can enjoy. The simple platforming is complex enough to remain entertaining for hours on end, yet with instant cooperative play with up to four players on a home console, it’s always a fun time with everyone racing and slapping each other all the way to the finish. If there’s one way to spend the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, Christmas, or any family time together when you’re snowed/rained in, Rayman: Origins is it.

Dark Souls

Beware: this is for masochists only! Dark Souls, the sequel to Demons Souls, is an RPG with a difficulty curve that will either make you break your controller in frustration or feel right at home with the sheer insanity of this unforgiving game. If that sounds like the perfect gift for someone, either because they’d love it or end up breaking their game console in frustration, then this is a must-buy.

Saint’s Row: The Third

Saint’s Row: The Third is not what you’d expect from a massive sandbox game in the vein of Grand Theft Auto. It’s goofy, over the top in every way, and rombunctiously fun. So much so that I had to make up a word to describe it, because this game is insane in just about every way. That’s not to say you won’t love it…just keep it out of reach from the kids.

Assassin’s Creed: Revelations

Assassin’s Creed is one of the few game franchises where every game may feel oh-so-similar to the last, but even then the games are still so damn fun it’s impossible to put down. All of the Assassin’s Creed titles have just been incredible, even though Shawn and I may disagree on just how good. But there’s one thing we both agree on: these games are a blast to play. Assassin’s Creed: Revelations doesn’t quite take the franchise to the next level, still following Ezio Auditore from Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood, but it further unfolds the tale, both past and present, of the everlong struggle between the Assassin’s and Knights Templar. A blockbuster hit you won’t want to miss.

Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

Skyrim is the one game you’ve probably seen not only a handful of ads in larger cities, but new internet meme’s popping up daily about. In fact, you don’t have to go far to learn what Skyrim is, which is one of the biggest, most incredible RPGs to come out this year. Our own Shawn Kline loved it. A definite must have, but be warned: you probably won’t be seeing much of whomever you give it to. That may make it a great, or terrible, gift idea.

Metal Gear Solid: HD Collection

There are few games that stand the test of time. Metal Gear Solid isn’t just one game, but an entire series that does exactly that. That’s why the game’s creator Hideo Kojima keeps making new ones even after consistently saying he’s done. That’s why years later people talk about the incredible experience they had in Snake Eater, or how they once ate Alligator meat in the game. Sure, it’s zany and over the top, but putting the Metal Gear Solid 2, 3, and Peace Walker in one bundle, in  HD, is just another reason to play it, or to buy it for the new generation that didn’t grow up with METAL GEEEEEEAR!

Own an Xbox 360? Know someone who does, or perhaps doesn’t but really wants to? Then look no further, because Gadget Review has you completely covered with Microsoft’s game console and all the exclusive titles you’ll need from this year’s lineup. To sweeten the guide, we’ve even included a handful of accessories that will make for great gifts this holiday for any Xbox 360 owner. Or for that good friend who hasn’t quite made the jump yet.

Hardware

Xbox 360 Limited Edition Call of Duty:
Modern Warfare 3 Console

It’s the gift that keeps on giving. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 is already the biggest game this year, and every one of your friends is playing it. Up the ante with the full MW3 Xbox 360, which features a 320GB hard drive, two custom-painted new (with the improved D-pad) wireless controllers, and of course the game. The stunning paint job worked wonders for the photoshoot, and it looks just as good in real life. Whether it’s for yourself or a friend, a big hard drive and an awesome-looking Xbox is the way to go. This bundle does not disappoint.

Xbox 360 Media Remote

The original Xbox 360 media remote was big, bulky, and matched the white and green color scheme of the original Xbox 360 design. So with the Xbox 360 Slim, which comes in a standard glossy black, comes a sleek, elegant and new media remote. Able to turn on any Xbox 360 without the need to sync, the Media Remote con completely control the Xbox 360 for navigating menus, controlling media playback, and taking over your TV as a universal remote. For that last feature alone, the Media Remote is great at a low price of $19.99. Add onto that all the streaming media you can get through the Xbox 360 like Hulu Plus and ESPN, and the Media Remote is a must-have for the family room Xbox 360.

Mad Catz MLG Arcade Fightstick: Tournament Edition

When it comes to fighting games, you don’t want to rely on just a gamepad, especially when the fight turns serious. You want a fightstick, a full-on arcade-style eight button+joystick setup that’s built to last. Mad Catz has had a few great ones over the past few years, and the MLG Arcade Fightstick: Tournament Edition is no joke. Full-size, full-weight, and full-power, the MLG fightstick is built with Sanwa buttons and joystick to give it that real arcade-machine feeling, that can handle any pounding from hundreds or thousands of people. So bang on this bad boy all you want, it’s made to last.

Xbox 360 Wireless Headset w/Bluetooth

Wireless headsets for the Xbox 360 are great, but they only work with the Xbox, nothing else. For users who only need the one, that’s great, but if you’re looking for a multi-purpose headset, or just want to use one for your gaming and telephony needs, the Xbox 360 Wireless Headset w/Bluetooth has you covered. With the flick of a switch it toggles between Bluetooth and Xbox 360 communication. This on-the-ear headset is comfortable to wear and works very well with both the game console and mobile phones, and it’s been a strange pleasure to use it for both. It’s for a niche customer base, and a solid piece of hardware that makes a great stocking-stuffer.

Kinect Sensor + Nyko Zoom

Kinect is quickly becoming the ultimate living-room experience, whether it’s for gaming or for shouting at your Xbox to change the channel or pause the movie. Kinect is changing the way we interact with our media, and this holiday it’s one thing no Xbox 360 owner should want to miss.

And for anyone who already has Kinect knows how frustrating it can be to use it in a small-ish room. Kinect is built for the family room, larger spaces with plenty of distance between the couch and the TV. But, like many of you, I don’t have such a family room. My media center is a rectangular-shaped box with a round-abound couch, a coffee table and 3-5 feet of space to walk. Kinect needs 8-10 between you and the TV.

Not with the Nyko Zoom. The Zoom is a simple set of lenses that pops over the Kinect to make the cameras see objects closer than they actually are, almost halving the required distance from the Kinect. It’s especially great for individual players because their space of play will suddenly be much closer to the TV, be much more defines, and helps cut those rare instances where the Kinect doesn’t read your movements properly in half. Kinect will change the way you use your Xbox, and Nyko’s Zoom will help make that change, specifically for gaming in more confined spaces, a much more pleasant reality.

Xbox 360 Wireless Speed Wheel

Okay, so it’s a wireless racing wheel. It seems like a joke, and perhaps is when compared to simulation-grade wheels from the likes of Logitech and Thrustmaster. But this racing wheel has one thing those wheels don’t: it’s always fun. Playing with the Wireless Speed Wheel is a constant struggle of holding the wheel upright, timing your turns and not taking the race too seriously. Sure, you can play Forza Motorsport 4 with it, or arcade racers like Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit. But if you pull out this wheel when playing with friends, it becomes a ton of fun.

Mad Catz Gears of War 3 7.1 Dolby Surround Sound Headset

Even if you aren’t a fan of Gears of War, the 7.1 Surround Sound Headset is a great sounding surround headset. It sounds good, has a convenient one-cable solution, is USB powered and works on the Xbox 360, PS3 and PC. Besides for the fact that it’s just a plain good headset, Gears fans will love the light-up skull earcans.

Xbox 360 Exclusive Games

Gears of War 3

It promised to be one of the biggest action titles of the year, and developer Epic Games pulled through on that promise. Gears of War 3 is an amicable conclusion to the Xbox 360 sci-fi saga, one that includes a fun, sordid campaign and several excellent multiplayer modes that continue to excite even months later. You don’t want to pass on this.

Forza Motorsport 4

Forza Motorsport 3 was huge, with over 400 cars and a disc just to install a ton of content. Forza 4 does all of that and more, with better photorealistic graphics, more cars and tracks, Kinect functionality, and the same great racing. If there’s a racing game to get this holiday, it’s Forza 4.

Dance Central 2

The original Dance Central was revolutionary; it took the dancing games we all wanted to enjoy on the Wii and made dancing in front of a TV fun. Whether it’s to work out, to learn some dance moves, or to make a fool of yourself at a party, Dance Central 2 ups the ante with two-players dancing side-by-side and a slew of new songs to get jiggy with. I wouldn’t call it kid-friendly; most of the tracks are fairly explicit (no bad words, but there is plenty of questionable content), though you’re likely to hear them on the radio nonetheless. Games like Dance Central are the reason to own a Kinect.

Halo: Anniversary

The game that brought the Xbox into the limelight returns, completely revamped with new HD graphics, online coop, and new game modes available in last year’s Halo: Reach. It may not look quite right to play the old classic with such updated graphics (I myself just love the old-school blocky textures), and the game isn’t an exact duplicate. Grizzled ancients will have new secrets to hunt and unlock while younger gamers who missed the original can give the game that started it all a serious go. For $40 it’s a great buy, even if you own the original Halo: Combat Evolved like I do because of the improved resolution and the chance to play it over Xbox Live.

Great Multi-Console Games

Batman: Arkham City

The return of the Dark Knight this decade has just been astounding. First two (and soon a third) film, then an amazing game, and now a kickass sequel. Batman: Arkham City is not just a romp around a fine prison; it’s a full-scale town to silently stalk through. Arkham City is a definite best-buy for any player, not only because the game is just so fun, but because many gamers missed it in the flood of holiday games. Don’t let this one pass you by.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3

It’s big. Everyone wants it. It’s Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3. In fact, if you don’t already have it, the only question is why not? We loved it, all your friends are playing it, and unless you’re stuck in Skyrim (see below), there’s no reason Modern Warfare 3 shouldn’t be in your game collection.

Rage

As good and bad as some games are, few are as jam-packed with excellent content and top-of-the-line features as Rage. It’s got a lot of holes to plug, and a lot of minor gripes that will annoy. But I guarantee that it‘s not only an excellent first person shooter, but that it really pushes the bounds of what it means to be a shooter. Rage may not be the greatest game to come out this year, but it will certainly open your eyes to the possibilities of future games, and be exciting the whole while. Just don’t forget to save often.

Portal 2

The best puzzle game this year, period. It’s bigger, smarter, and has a deeper story than the original, plus room for two players with double the portal action. Coop alone makes Portal 2 a great buy. Free future updates only guarantee that you’ll want to keep it.

Battlefield 3

Modern Warfare 3 may own the multiplayer Rambo-style of gaming, but Battlefield 3 is for the team-players, the ones who will grab their friends for an hour-long bout against an equally intelligent group for serious, vehicle-filled combat. Battlefield is for console strategists. Feel free to run and gun, but unless that’s your specialty, your team can definitely use another great member of the crew. Be it.

Deus Ex: Human Revolution

As a sleeper hit, Human Revolution isn’t quite the game that the original Deus Ex was, but that doesn’t take away from the game any. It pits players in the same neo-techno future, with body augmentations, incredible combat maneuvers, and multiple ways to play the game, including stealth, engineering, and soldier. It’s one game that’s easy to miss, but don’t. There is so much to do in the big city, it’s like a miniature RPG.

Rayman: Origins

Rayman: Origins is one of those really great games that everyone in the family can enjoy. The simple platforming is complex enough to remain entertaining for hours on end, yet with instant cooperative play with up to four players on a home console, it’s always a fun time with everyone racing and slapping each other all the way to the finish. If there’s one way to spend the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, Christmas, or any family time together when you’re snowed/rained in, Rayman: Origins is it.

Dark Souls

Beware: this is for masochists only! Dark Souls, the sequel to Demons Souls, is an RPG with a difficulty curve that will either make you break your controller in frustration or feel right at home with the sheer insanity of this unforgiving game. If that sounds like the perfect gift for someone, either because they’d love it or end up breaking their game console in frustration, then this is a must-buy.

Saint’s Row: The Third

Saint’s Row: The Third is not what you’d expect from a massive sandbox game in the vein of Grand Theft Auto. It’s goofy, over the top in every way, and rombunctiously fun. So much so that I had to make up a word to describe it, because this game is insane in just about every way. That’s not to say you won’t love it…just keep it out of reach from the kids.

Assassin’s Creed: Revelations

Assassin’s Creed is one of the few game franchises where every game may feel oh-so-similar to the last, but even then the games are still so damn fun it’s impossible to put down. All of the Assassin’s Creed titles have just been incredible, even though Shawn and I may disagree on just how good. But there’s one thing we both agree on: these games are a blast to play. Assassin’s Creed: Revelations doesn’t quite take the franchise to the next level, still following Ezio Auditore from Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood, but it further unfolds the tale, both past and present, of the everlong struggle between the Assassin’s and Knights Templar. A blockbuster hit you won’t want to miss.

Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

Skyrim is the one game you’ve probably seen not only a handful of ads in larger cities, but new internet meme’s popping up daily about. In fact, you don’t have to go far to learn what Skyrim is, which is one of the biggest, most incredible RPGs to come out this year. Our own Shawn Kline loved it. A definite must have, but be warned: you probably won’t be seeing much of whomever you give it to. That may make it a great, or terrible, gift idea.

Metal Gear Solid: HD Collection

There are few games that stand the test of time. Metal Gear Solid isn’t just one game, but an entire series that does exactly that. That’s why the game’s creator Hideo Kojima keeps making new ones even after consistently saying he’s done. That’s why years later people talk about the incredible experience they had in Snake Eater, or how they once ate Alligator meat in the game. Sure, it’s zany and over the top, but putting the Metal Gear Solid 2, 3, and Peace Walker in one bundle, in  HD, is just another reason to play it, or to buy it for the new generation that didn’t grow up with METAL GEEEEEEAR!

Thanks to Amazon you can grab this new Modern Warfare 3 Xbox 360 and get $50 credit along with it!

Fresh for the release of MW3 Amazon is offering you some extra credit with your order of the brand new special edition Xbox. This 360 comes with a brand new paint job which spreads to the controllers and of course has a copy of Call of duty Modern Warfare 3 included. In addition it also has downloadable avatar items and of course with $50 of credit to go with it you have plenty to either get more games or more accessories to enhance your gaming experience further. This model includes the large 320GB hard drive, more than enough to meet the gaming cravings you need. This offer won’t last long, nor will this special edition so grab it fast!

Buy this console from Amazon and you’ll not only get COD MW3, but also get a $50 credit that can be used to purchase anything off Amazon.

I must confess, ever since id Software announced Rage, I’ve remained unimpressed. At every turn I’ve been skeptical. No amount of wonderful textures, unique gameplay features or anything shown over the past five years of development has changed my mind. Then my friend and colleague Ben Kuchera at Ars Technica cemented my expectations with a brief pre-review of Rage: a terrible game wrapped in wonderful packaging.

It’s times like this that I love being wrong.

Rage is the best game I’ve played this year, so far. With the recent releases of Battlefield 3 and Batman: Arkham City, and upcoming titles like Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception, Modern Warfare 3, Assassin’s Creed: Revelations, et al, plenty of us will bankrupt ourselves into a frenzy of confusion. And while many of these games haven’t released yet , Rage is one I can’t recommend enough.

A cross between Mad Max and your choice of recent apocalyptic role playing games (RPG), Rage is an exemplary cinematic tale with a piss-poor plot but a brilliant world and exceptional gameplay. Rage is one of the few games to ever release that feels real. Things in the game world make sense, like they would in the real world. Driving is hard until cars are upgraded with better engines, better wheels and control. Objects in the world normally considered useless can be collected and sold, because after all, the world as we know it is gone. People actually need coffee cups and books. Even the level design, with massive landscapes that require no load time or buffering to get from one end to the other, immerse players so deeply that hours can, and will, fly off the clock.

id was able to do this because of the incredible technology of id Tech 5 and, more importantly, a deep understanding of how the real world operates. Like my colleague Ben Kuchera was belligerent about, missions can very easily go from simple one-objective treks to hour long adventures through hordes of mutants, wild races, or a hailstorm of bullets. And while I agree that it’s unsettling to be constantly taken for a ride by a needy mayor, a useless sheriff or just some stranger looking for help, that’s life. Every one of us has experienced it, where an easy five minute task turns into a three day ordeal. But you know what, games should mimic life, and even though sometimes it feels like players are given the run around, I couldn’t help but smile every time it happened. Because each time it did, there was always some excuse, some reason that characters in the game had to keep me on that leash.

In fact, Rage follows this sort of realism on several different levels. Graphically, for sure, though I’ll need to spend some time on the PC version to really appreciate it (not that the console version doesn’t look good, because it certainly does…but a solid PC will do it justice). The aspect of driving between destinations, similar to riding a horse in Red Dead Redemption, and staying on your toes because bandits come out of nowhere or keeping an eye open for treasures. Or even raving mutants dodging and weaving in an animal-like fashion instead of charging head-on, making them difficult to shoot.

These elements, and plenty more, combine into the most immersive FPS today. Not because of an interesting narrative, or fun characters, or even strong combat. No, Rage accomplishes immersion by making players feel at home. Because Rage isn’t about playing a game. It’s about being in the game. It’s about surviving.

Unfortunately, Rage fails to keep players fully immersed with a stupid narrative, intellectually bankrupt characters, and zero emotional investment. The tale of the post-apocalyptic world is just fine: governments cryogenically freeze people prior to an asteroid strike on Earth to help preserve mankind. But the second players are given control, all intelligence vanishes. The first major character, Dan Hagar, explains how valuable the player is as an Ark survivor…and does nothing about it! He describes how players are lucky this saint fount him, because Ark survivors are worth a fortune. Yet no one ever tries to turn players in. All game characters are honest and respectful. There is n double crossing, no cheating, and no poor manners. That is entirely inhuman.

Rage is by no means an RPG. It’s an exploratory open-world linear FPS with basic car mechanics and racing. There’s an  elementary engineering system to build items, the simplest form of weapons upgrades, and even the most rudimentary choice of character classes. But these all play into the larger FPS game, the larger complete-these-missions narrative. In that, Rage is exceptional, but with the sheer number of story oversights to the terribly slow beginning and an equally terrible abrupt ending, Rage falls into one of the same problems every id game before has: there is no plot.

As far as id Software is concerned, based on their past titles, that’s not important, and it really sucks to see that. I’ve been a huge fan of id, ever since Commander Keen, but after Doom 3 my faith in the company’s ability to make excellent games has faltered. Yes, they are all technically amazing and set industry standards. Yes, the combative gameplay is exciting and invigorating every time. But seriously, hire a damn staff of competent writers. Make a plot-driven title, or at least give meaning to the worlds you create. Is it really so difficult to make players interested in the plot, or give them a reason to want to talk to people? I trudged around the Wasteland and never once found anything to invest myself in emotionally. In the 90’s, that was fine. Today, it’s a travesty.

Furthermore, I do agree with Kuchera on one major point. Many of the reviews of Rage were written by so-called critics invited to play the game for two consecutive days. Rage isn’t the kind of game to restock the mini-fridge, bring in a microwave and lock the door for a few days. It’s a game made, properly, to enjoy over at least a week, if not longer. I was pleasantly surprised at how easy it was for me to pick up the game right where I left off, and have a simple mission and navigation system lead me where I want and need to go. But there’s only so much anyone can take in one sitting. You don’t eat a box of donuts all at once, or you’ll be praying to the porcelain god. Don’t try to gobble up this game either.

What may seem like a moot point by now is the fairly awful checkpoint system. Rage doesn’t save on it’s own, it relies on user-generated saves and an occasional checkpoint. That means if power goes out, you could be looking at around 30-minutes of playtime lost. If you die, if there’s a bug and your avatar gets stuck, or if your mom/girlfriend abruptly turns off the Xbox to get you to clear the damn laundry out, you’re SOL. Twice in one playthrough two separate bugs forced me to restart from a checkpoint. The first time, a bug in the physics engine wouldn’t let me get in my car and then it ran me over, and the second I jumped from an elevator and fell through the floor and under the level. Each death cost me another 20-30 minutes. The 13-14 hour campaign took about 16 hours because of this. id has included a defibrillator feature, so instead of just dying players get a second chance at life, which is an ingenious idea, but it doesn’t replace using a decent checkpoint system. Like, say, saving every time players enter a new major area or load screen.

Load times are also ridiculously slow. Not Mass Effect 1 elevator slow, but if you don’t install the game on your Xbox, then expect those 16 hours to be more like 18, especially if you’re a completionist like me. Just loading in and out of races takes 30 seconds a pop without an install, but only 8-12 seconds with it.

As for racing, I don’t know why id says Rage is an FPS and racing game. Races are such a small part of the experience and they earn nothing but more powerful vehicle parts. The races themselves are useful, especially early on, not only to improve vehicles but to get a strong sense of the wasteland for missions. Just like driving around in Grand Theft Auto IV builds familiarity with particular streets, the races in Rage ingrain those tracks through practice, and make the game both easier and more enjoyable.

Racing is also prominently featured as competitive multiplayer, where friends and strangers can compete in several different race types to see who’s the best. It’s fun, but frankly a poor substitute for a real multiplayer driving game. We haven’t seen a title recently like Twisted Metal. Rage, however, didn’t need to fill that void.

The cooperative online mode is more enticing, featuring ten slightly changed single-player parts of the game for two players. I had a lot of fun going through those missions. It’s very similar to playing Doom 3 with coop, though this time it’s focused on multiple players.

A few small tidbits as well: the Anarchy Edition, which includes two downloadables that includes four in-game items (a mostly useless car, a single-shot double-barreled sawed-off shotgun, spiked gloves and an all-encompassing body armor) and access to the world’s sewers (which act as bonus stages with lot’s of collectible items), was only available for pre-order. However, don’t fret. While the armor and gloves were helpful early on, everything else was excessive, and even on the hardest difficulty players won’t ever need to go into the sewers to find cash. It’s a nicety, not a necessity.

Rage is the type of game I normally avoid because of preposterously bad writing. Yet even with some horrible blunders, even with a lot of false allure and pretty pictures, Rage is an incredible experience. Every time I play I feel in the game. I live Rage. The fact that id could make a game this immersive without an engrossing narrative is remarkable. I recommend everyone play Rage, albeit with the above reservations in mind. Rage is one game that every game developer, without exception, can learn from, and it deserves a home in every household.

Editor’s Choice

4 out of 5 stars

Great

Pros:

• Exceptionally immersive world with honest-to-goodness realism
• Amazing graphics spanning from huge landscapes to tiny corridors
• An excellent selection of weapons that almost never makes you feel too powerful or too weak
• An inclusive world that has plenty of exploration, and plenty of basic RPG elements
• Easy to pick up from where you left off, no matter when the last time you played was
• Fun coop

Cons:

• Without an installation, load times are treacherously slow
• The overall plot has potential, which id completely squandered
• The narrative is exceptionally weak on every level, down to emotionless characters
• Checkpoint save system is seriously lacking
• A slow beginning and abrupt end leaves a bad taste in the mouth

Bottom Line: As much as Rage gets wrong, there is so, so much right. It’s the kind of game everyone should play because it’s real. That’s one thing most games today just can’t do, and that one thing tips the scales so far in Rage’s favor, that I can’t help but recommend it to all players.

With plenty of sales over the last week it’s very clear how just about anyone could take advantage of the savings. Everything from Cameras to video game peripherals and Bluetooth Headsets have been graced with low prices, some of which the lowest we’ve ever seen. Here’s some of the best that are still around:

10. Nikon Coolpix S9100 12MP Digital Camera – $230

This dynamo of a camera was released earlier this year at a fair price of $350, but now thanks to some clever savings from Abe’s of Maine you can get this Nikon Coolpix S9100 for much cheaper. Just use the coupon code LOYALTY10 to bring the price down to this level and you can start snapping high quality 12MP photos with ease and get the perfect close-ups with its intense 18x Optical Zoom capabilities. Can’t go wrong here.

9. Bose Bluetooth Headset – $88

You remember eBays offering on this one? Yep it’s still around, and you can still grab this Bluetooth Headset from Bose at the lowest price on the net. This one is designed to be your swiss army knife for calls on the go, mainly in part to its noise cancellation technology on both ends to keep voices crystal clear even in very loud circumstances. The earphone portion is based on the powerful Triport technology Bose employs in their portable headphones, so sound quality is a definite plus here. This definitely won’t last much longer so grab it while its still alive.

8. TomTom VIA 1505T 5.0-Inch GPS – $120

Crutchfield still has some special savings you can grab on this brand new TomTom Via 1505T. It’s not very often we see discounts on the 5.0-Inch models, but this one pulls all the stops and supplies you with perfect voiced navigation and free lifetime traffic support to avoid the jams before you arrive at them. 3A825 is the coupon code you need to type in at the credit page to get this price, and it’s definitely worth it.

7. HP Photosmart All-in-One Printer w/ 1 Year of Ink – $119

Believe it or not you can still save on this HP Photosmart Printer. Just use coupon code SAVE30HP to cut down the price and experience the thrill of full color photo prints with ease. This one can also copy and scan at a high DPI for picture perfect quality and print at up to 33 pages per minute for blazing fast prints altogether. For a limited time you can also get a years supply of ink for free with your order, and when it comes to saving you money there is no better way than that.

6. Sony Blu-Ray Remote for Playstation 3 – $13

Best Buy has gone and lowered the price on this Remote for the PS3 to the lowest we’ve seen! It’s quite a simple peripheral but definitely necessary for taking advantage of one of the most popular features of the PS3; full support for Blu-Ray discs and movies. This remote has all the buttons and controls you need for a full home theater movie experience but manages to tag on Bluetooth connectivity for plenty of range and easy control no matter what direction you face. Tax and shipping may apply to this one, or you can save more and pick it up in a Best Buy near you.

5. Samsung PN43D490 43-Inch Plasma TV w/ Free 19-Inch TV – $550

If you were looking for a great sized TV for a great home theater experience then this combo is for you. Still alive and kicking you can grab this 43-Inch Samsung Plasma TV and receive a free 19-Inch Samsung to go along with it. This one has a 720p HD resolution which may not be the best around but it also sports 3D support and a 600Hz SubField drive to smooth out the picture like never before. It also includes 3 HDMI 1.4 inputs for HD/3D connectivity all around.

4. Samsung Stratosphere 4G For Verizon – FREE

We like things that are free, and when you grab a contract with this brand new Samsung Stratosphere 4G you get just that. This powerful smartphone comes with Android and a 1Ghz Hypertasking processor. It includes a large 4.0-Inch AMOLED display for HD viewing all around and a full QWERTY keyboard which slides out for underneath and makes typing quickly a breeze. You can also share its 4G connection with mobile hotspot over 8 other devices so nothing has to go without.

3. Asus U36SD-A1 13.3-Inch Netbook – $709

After a small shipping fee of $9 you still manage to save $300 on this powerful Asus U36SD Notebook. Not only does it come with a compact 13.3-Inch High Definition display but also a powerful Intel Core i5-2410M 2.3Ghz processor paired up with 4GBs of DDR3 RAM. Graphics are provided from NVIDIA’s 520M discrete solution for easy viewing of HD videos and gaming on the go. Top that off with a 640GB hard drive, gigabit Ethernet with Wireless N and Bluetooth and a massive 9 hours of battery life and you have yourself the perfect notebook to take anywhere.

2. NOOK – The Simple Touch Reader – $79

Unbelievably, you can still save big via eBay on this refurbished NOOK Touch Reader. This popular solution for eBook reading provides you with everything you need to take all your favorite novels and stories with you anywhere. It includes a 6.0-Inch E-Ink display which won’t hurt your eyes during extended reading sessions. It also runs on the Android Operating System and therefore provides the ability to fully browse the Web on the go. 2GBs of memory is included with SD support for even more. Thousands of books are at your fingertips at a price you can afford.

1. Battlefield 3 – Limited Edition Pre-Order

Battlefield 3 is out tomorrow, so you still have the ability to take advantage of these pre-order savings! Amazon has you covered on all platforms here, giving you a bonus offer of Dog Tags and the Back to Karkland expansion pack free with any version. The PC downloadable version is discounted to $49 but the console versions for PS3 and Xbox 360 maintain the traditional price but offer $20 in Amazon Credit to go along with it and that can be spent anywhere on the site. The latest and greatest installment to the series will shortly be here, so grab these extras while you can!

Amazon is offering the best savings so far with this Battlefield 3 Limited Edition with $20 Amazon Credit!

Thanks to this new offer Amazon officially has every platform covered in some way to benefit your Pre-Order of Battlefield 3 even more! When you set up your order for this intense multiplayer action game now you will not only receive the Back to Karkland Expansion pack free of charge but you will also receive limited edition Dog Tags and $20 free credit which can be used anywhere on Amazon. As most of you know already Battlefield 3 is this years’ highly anticipated First Person Shooter which gives you the air of open combat and the ability to not only jump into tanks and jeeps but to even pilot helicopters and Jets as you dominate the Battlefield. The release date is coming very soon, and these offers will only last until then so don’t miss out!

This is a special preorder that won’t last – the game comes out soon.  It costs $59.95, but Amazon will give you a $20 credit o spend on anything on their website.  You’ll also score the Dog Tag Pack as well as the Battlefield 3: Back to Karkand expansion pack for free.

Amazon is offering a bonus $10 Credit to your purchase of Batman Arkham City for Xbox 360!

It’s finally here! The sequel to the hit Batman Arkham Asylum is here and that’s Arkham City! Now you can once again become the Dark Knight and face a genuinely authentic Batman experience as you struggle against the twisted super villain encounters and deal with glimpses of Batman’s own twisted past. In this title you are also able to play as Catwoman who has her own story arc interwoven seamlessly with the story which expands past its predecessor. There are new gadgets available this time, along with some new fighting techniques to defeat many villains from Batman’s past including Two-Face, Harley Quinn, The Joker, The Riddler and many more. When you order now you will also receive $10 in bonus credit applicable to any other items on Amazon including more games!

Get a $10 credit good towards Amazon products when you preorder this game which ships tomorrow, October 18th!  S&H is included in the $59.99 price

Buy.com via eBay has an exciting discount offer available on this Microsoft Xbox 360 System 4GB Kinect Bundle!

Yep, you heard that right; now you can grab the 360 with the Kinect for just $250! Of course by now we all know what the Xbox 360 from Microsoft is capable of, and now for the holiday season it’s the perfect time to either plan a gift, begin your console experience or even upgrade from a previous model. This version of Xbox is much slimmer and more stylish then before, with it’s full black paint job and new look and feel to go along with it. It includes the Kinect within the bundle and that’s a $100 value on its own and provides for some intense motion control games where your body is the controller and the sky is the limit. Also included is the Kinect Adventures! game so you can begin enjoying the system and all of its capabilities without the need for additional purchases. This model includes 4GBs of internal memory which can be added to with hard drives.

Watch out, because this deal is gonna expire soon.  This bundle is usually far more, but now you can get the Kinect and the 360 for just $249.99.  S&H is free.

4.5 out of 5 stars

It’s been a long time coming – one of the first, few major franchises to propel the Xbox 360 above and beyond Sony’s Playstation 3, has finally come to a close. Gears of War, the Epic Games trilogy of oversized men, consistent badmouthing, true bullet sponges, and an entirely incomplete story, ends with nothing short of miraculous growth and somehow, simultaneously, the most limited change imaginable. You’re going to love it.

Gears of War 3 isn’t far from what fans of the series have and will imagine: our favorite barrel-chested men blowing up everything, chainsawing foes in half, curb-stomping their way to victory. The big difference, which Epic Games has seriously pushed ever since they realized they don’t make story-driven games, was to actually make a game players can care about. In Gears 3, the studio has finally discovered its voice. Sure, it’s still a meat-headed, testosterone and adrenaline mixture bent on suffocating players who actually want intelligence, but an emotional one.

Thankfully, Epic doesn’t go that far, instead prompting players to just enjoy their favorite, insanely-buff crew’s wit and ever-condescending humor, a brilliant tactic rarely thought of by game developers. That is, letting the characters tell their story instead of some omniscient being. And that’s what Gears 3 really is, the ending of the trilogy through the eyes of the very colorful characters we’ve come to know and love. And what better farewell than by the prompt bow and curtsy.

Marcus Fenix and Co. follow the twisting and turning plot of the prior two games – that is, the Locust crawled out of the ground to attack the fine, warring people of Sera, and have driven them to near extinction, while suddenly the Lambent attack, a form of the Locust that’s explosive and disorganized, and the good folk of Sera kiss their asses goodbye – where Fenix’ father is alive, well, and with a way to kill the Lambent and Locust. Saddling up his friendly crew of misfits, Fenix races off for adventure in the darkest, most gruesome way possible, meeting old friends and making new enemies along the way.

To say that the world of Gears 3 is colorful is the worst kind of lie. It’s a lush world filled with occasional splats of green and pink, but mostly brown and grey and steel. The color comes entirely from the characters, whether it be from Cole visiting his home town, reliving his past stardom with fans who remember, or Dom finding a way to finally forgive himself for his wife’s death by saving his friend and brother. I can’t say with any certainty that I actually felt emotion during the game…it would be unmanly, and how can anyone really feel with blood and bone flowing rampant. But thinking back, it was a truly heart-warming tale of love, loss, and life.

All that wrapped in a burrito of big teeth, giant arms, chainsaw guns and carnage. Seriously, who the hell can taste that slightly gooey inside with the incredible outside? Not even Epic takes their game too seriously…and if they do, it’s impossible to tell. Play cooperatively and that plot and gripping emotion is thrown out the window by friendly banter.

But if you’re playing with friends, then it’s never about the game; it’s about the gameplay, and dagnabit nothing’s changed. It’s still solid as ever, fun in a perverse way, with too much cover, too much running and gunning, and too many guts spilled everywhere. Some online matches are a sneeze of body parts while others are slow, methodical massacres. The maps have changed but the gameplay hasn’t, and just like before competitive play is a love it or hate it experience.

Cooperatively, Gears of War 3 is the best game to release since co-op was invented. The campaign is fun over and over again, both the updated Horde mode and new Beast modes are charming excitement, and neither gets old too soon. That alone, forgetting the embittered and most certainly subtle political tale, makes Gears 3 a game of the year contender, whether or not the gameplay suits you. There is no better way to enhance a game than to play it with friends, and Gears of War 3 is the very embodiment of that. New titles will come and go, but gamers will keep coming back to this defining buddy game.