Unlock the World of Gaming with These Incredible Gifts

The Games

Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 (Activision and Treyarch and Raven Software, rated M, $69.99 or $99.00 for Vault Edition) is a must-have for fans. The 21st iteration of the first-person military shooter brings back the glory with an engaging new game mechanic, immersive graphics, and a dose of nostalgia. The solo campaign is one of the most enjoyable in recent years, featuring a host of action-packed missions led by familiar faces. Players assume the role of Case, a CIA agent who must stop an international paramilitary terrorist organization. The variety of missions offers a fresh experience, ranging from stealth to intense combat. One of the biggest additions is the omnidirectional movement system, allowing players to move in any direction and execute clip-worthy stunts. The multiplayer is also fun, with options to vote on maps and game modes. And of course, Zombies mode is back with two new maps and exciting augments. The Vault Edition includes some cool operator and Zombie skins, along with a GobbleGum pack.

Warhammer 40k: Space Marine 2 (Focus Entertainment and Saber Interactive, rated M, $59.99) is a sequel that doesn't disappoint. Players take on the role of Captain Titus and fight against the Tyranid horde and the Forces of Chaos. The action is fast-paced and intense, with a mix of melee and shooting combat. There are 11 main weapons and three secondary pistols, offering diverse play mechanics. The game also features collectibles and lore-rich environments, adding to the overall experience. Boss fights are epic, especially the two-phase Imurah fight. The Jump Pack adds vertical mobility, making combat even more exciting. In multiplayer, a squad of Space Marines works together to complete missions, adding a layer of strategy.

A Quiet Place: The Road Ahead (Saber Interactive and Stormind Games, rated M, $49.99) is a terrifying survival horror game. Players control Alex Taylor as she navigates a post-apocalyptic world filled with alien creatures. The attention to detail in sound design is remarkable, with sound affected by the environment. Players must avoid making noise to survive, and the microphone mode adds an extra layer of tension. The game also features diary entries and notes, giving players a deeper understanding of the characters. As Alex travels through the world, she faces various challenges and must make tough decisions.

Tomb Raider: I-III Remastered (Aspyr, rated M, $29.99) is a treat for retro gamers. Players control Lara Croft as she explores jungles and ancient ruins, engaging in gun-wielding adventures. The visual updates are an improvement over the originals, with more detailed environments and clearer cutscenes. However, the movement controls could use some work, especially in certain locations. Once players get the hang of it, the game is just as fun as it was in the original release days, with environmental puzzles and obstacle courses.

Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster (Capcom, rated M, $49.99) is a survival horror game with a new coat of paint. Players take on the role of Frank West as he explores a quarantined town filled with zombies. The visuals and animation have been updated, making the game more realistic. Players can lead survivors to safety and use a variety of weapons to fight off the zombies. The game also features Easter eggs and achievements, adding to the replay value.

Risk of Rain 2 (Hopoo Games and Gearbox Publishing, rated T, $49.99) is a co-op shooter set on a mysterious alien planet. Players choose from different survivor archetypes and use their weapons and abilities to take on waves of aliens and bosses. The game has a simple yet charming art style and is perfect for fans of rogue-like shooters. With the recent release of DLC packs, the game is even more loaded with content.

WWE 2K24 (Visual Concepts and 2K, rated T, $34.99) is a wrestling simulation game with endless customization options. Players can create their own superstar or choose from a selection of predesigned characters. The game offers different story modes and match types, allowing players to experience the WWE universe in different ways. The character creation process is detailed, with options to customize every aspect of the character's appearance.

Looney Tunes: Wacky World of Sports (GameMill Entertainment and Bamtang Games, rated E, $49.99) is a casual sports game that's perfect for the whole family. Up to four players can compete in golf, tennis, basketball, and soccer using iconic Looney Tunes characters. The games feature power-ups and super shots, adding to the fun. The Acme Tournament of Champions is a highlight, with teams competing in a series of games to determine the winner.

Peripherals and Gadgets

Reflex FPS: Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 Edition (Scuf Gaming, starting at $239.99) is a high-performance wireless controller for PlayStation 5. It features instant triggers for quicker shots and removable paddles for easy customization. The face design includes a built-in speaker, touchpad, and directional pad, along with interchangeable thumbsticks. The controller offers a comfortable and secure grip, reducing discomfort during extended gameplay. Its Call of Duty homage with the Cerberus logo is a nice touch. The package includes a carrying case and extra thumbsticks.

WD_Black SN850P (Western Digital, $99.99 and $599.99) is a solid-state drive that solves the storage dilemma for PlayStation 5 users. It easily installs into the console and expands storage up to eight terabytes. With reading speeds of up to 7,000MB/s, it cuts down on load times and provides seamless gameplay. The thermal management system keeps the SSD cool during extended gaming sessions. Installing the drive is easy, and it comes with a free PlayStation Plus trial membership.