by B. Ender

Created on: August 27, 2008

Being an avid gamer and a friend of many other avid gamers, it isn't uncommon to consider giving a friend a video game as a gift. While this can be an excellent gift idea, you need to be able to choose the right game for your friend. If not, your relatively expensive game will remain in his room, collecting dust.

First thing is, what kind of gamer is your friend? Is he a casual gamer, or more hardcore? Does he prefer first-person shooters, or does he like Role-Playing Games? There are many different types of games out there, and it is up to you to pick one suitable for your friends. Seeing how he or she is your friend, you should be able to tell what he or she enjoys playing.

Then, you have to know what game console or consoles he owns and enjoys to play. If he or she owns two different consoles, try to figure out which one he plays and enjoys the most. That will be the game console you will try to find a game for. Using these two assumptions, you'll be on your way to finding the great game.

If you can, see if there is a certain game that your friend has been talking about wanting to get. That will probably be the #1 game choice you should make. If he doesn't talk of a certain game he or she wants, then it would be a better choice to get a newer game. Most games are bestsellers for a few weeks after launch, then disappear off the top ten game sales chart pretty quickly. Although some games, mostly more casual games, are so-called "evergreen" best-sellers, for the majority of games you should get newly released games. If you are buying during the holiday season, your job is both easier and harder. It is easier because your friend will probably mention game he or she will like more often, but it is harder because during the holiday season a lot of games are released. It will be up to you to sort through all the new releases and pick the best one for your friend. Don't worry if your friend wanted multiple games, and you can only get one for him or her, just pick what you believe is best.

Well, there you have it. As I said before, it's your friend, so you know what type of game is best for your friend to enjoy. I didn't even mention certain games that are very good, because these games will age quickly and be replaced with even better games in the future. However, if you do make a good choice and your friend loves the game, prepare to hear him or her telling you stories of his or her adventures in the game. It'll be a blast!

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