by Kelly Keltner

Created on: November 07, 2009

You're standing before two panes of glass. Beyond them, lines of boxes peak out at you. Artwork beckons out to you featuring men in fatigues armed with guns, creatures from other worlds and even a few Ghostbusters. You want to buy your boyfriend a new video game, but how do you even begin to choose the one that's right for him?

Honestly, it's not that difficult. Following a few simple guidelines will ensure that you choose the right game for the gamer in your life.

1. Filter out the potential duplicates. If he has Halo 3, then you've already knocked one down. Don't be afraid to pilfer through his game collection when he's out of the room. Make a list of the games he already owns and keep it on you as you make your way to your local game shop.

2. Understand his gaming habits. If you've spent any time watching him game, you've probably seen him in various scenarios, but chances are he veers toward one type of game. If he's usually seen behind the scope of a gun and firing off rounds, he's probably into first person shooters. Maybe you usually see him controlling an avatar as he makes his way through a vast world in search of loot as he accomplishes yet another quest. In this case, he's probably enjoys adventure games more than other genres. This kind of knowledge will help you choose a game that's right for him and better prepare you for the moment when the sales associate inevitably asks, "What kind of games does he like to play?"

3. Stay away from promotionally based video games such as those released in conjunction with a new film. While many of these games are enjoyable, they're not always as strong as more independent games with their own worlds and mythologies.

4. Read reviews. Gamers aren't shy. They'll always tell you what they think of a game and will usually be very blunt about it. This is especially true of expansion packs and sequels.

5. Ask. If all else fails, ask him what games he most wants. Encourage him to create an Amazon Wishlist featuring all the games and gaming accessories he's been coveting for so long.

6. Consider a gift subscription to services like GameFly, a Netflix-esque service that will allow him to "rent" games and return them via mail at his leisure. This type of gift is especially appropriate for gamers who don't enjoy replaying games after they've conquered all levels.

Like any gift, obtain a receipt, preferably a gift receipt if available. More than likely, your gift's recipient will be aware of return policies such as keeping the packaging intact as video games, like most any media, cannot be returned once the seal has been broken.

Overall, most gamers will be ecstatic even if the gift isn't exactly what they want. After all, even if the game is used, there's always someone willing to trade.

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