A Non-Gamer’s Guide to Choosing a Video Game Gift
Buying a video game as a gift for someone special may seem overwhelming if you aren’t familiar with games yourself. But with a few key facts, and a little research, you can find a game your recipient will enjoy.
First, determine what platform the person you have in mind uses. If it’s a computer, take note of whether it is a Mac or a PC. If they use a video game console, find out which one. You’ll need to know both the brand, and the specific name of the console, much like finding out the make and model of a car. For example, knowing “Nintendo” isn’t enough—is it a Nintendo Wii, a Nintendo 64, or a Nintendo DS?
Now that you know that the game you choose will operate with the intended platform, the next piece of relevant information is genre. Just as books and movies fall within established genres, or types, so do games. Some of these genres are known by acronyms, such as FPS (first person shooter), or RPG (role-playing game). There are also strategy games, puzzle games, and so on.
Finally, be certain the content of the game you choose is appropriate for the person in mind, by checking the rating on the box. Some games are intended for more mature audiences than others.