"Mega Man 9" — A throwback to the days of the original Nintendo system, "Mega Man 9" contains the classic run-and-shoot game play (and brutal difficulty) of the series. Perfect for the old-school gamer on your list. PS3, Xbox 360, Wii; rated E for Everyone

"Space Invaders Extreme" — This revamp of the classic arcade game adds new weapons, brightly flashing graphics and great effects to the space-shooter formula. The action is fast-paced and addictive. Nintendo DS, Sony PSP; rated E for Everyone

"Tiger Woods 09" — Golf games come every year, but this version will be difficult to beat down the line. It manages to be easy to play, even for first-timers, and yet have depth and beckoning power for golf vets. The variety of holes, the customization of the characters, including incorporating the player's own face, and the outstanding online features make this a classic. All platforms; rated E for Everyone

"NCAA Football 09" is the best release from the series yet. The recruiting has been upgraded, and the look and feel all have had nice tweaks. Best of all, it has never been as much fun, thanks to an expanded online dynasty mode. Xbox 360, PSP, Wii, PS2, PS3; rated E for Everyone

"Indiana Jones/Batman LEGO" — The LEGO franchise of games started with the "Star Wars" universe but expanded to include "Indiana Jones" and "Batman" this year. These games are uniformly great for families, and that doesn't mean only the kids. There is humor and puzzle-solving and co-operative features, unlockable characters, rooms and trophies. We liked Indy, but Batman is the best so far. All systems; rated E10 for everyone 10 and up.

"Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise" — The original "Viva Pinata" game was an attempt to bring children's games to the Xbox 360, a hard-core gamer's platform. The game turned out to be great, but not the hoped-for commercial hit. A lame racing follow-up landed with a thud. But this installment takes the gentle fun of the original game and improves on it. The basic idea of tending a garden to attract humorous pinatas is back but with significant game-play improvements. Xbox 360; rated E for Everyone