"Grand Theft Auto IV" — A video game for adults, it can be brutal at times, but that doesn't stop it from being one of the most addictive games ever created. Niko Bellic is destined for the big screen and hopefully "GTA" sequels. The best part of the game is that you choose Niko's destiny. Does he have a soul? Yes or no? You decide. With a massive city at your fingertips, this may be the best game released in 2008. Xbox 360, PS3, PC; rated M for Mature

Miscellaneous and MMO

"Half-Life" — This grand sci-fi adventure shooter just turned 10. Developer Steam now offers it for 98 cents. If you haven't played it, or if want to give a gift for under a buck that will get you a big "thanks," this is the one.

Steam bundle — Should you happen to know a PC gamer who doesn't love Steam games already, spend less than $100 and buy them the company's entire catalog — 22 games — most of them very good. This includes the brand new zombie shooter "Left 4 Dead" ($50 retail), all the "Half-Life" versions, as well as "Portal," "Team Fortress 1 and 2" and a lot more.

"World of Warcraft" rules PC and massive multiplayer online gaming, but it doesn't stand alone. Its new installment "World of Warcraft: Wrath of the Lich King," is well received and probably as addicting as the original game. Buyer beware, it is known as "online crack" for its addictive nature.

"Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria" — It isn't exactly J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth, but it's a pretty good approximation and a little more gentle than other games like it. It's really fun and deep with details. Turbine develops updates for the PC-only game, most of them free. Prepare to pay a monthly subscription fee, but it can become your entire game focus if you wish.

"Warhammer Online" — War is in the title — and everywhere else — in this game that is a bit like "World of Warcraft" but with its own public battle feature. Yes it will drain your time, but it is an exercise worthy of some devoted leisure time.

Games downloaded and purchased online at Xbox Live's Arcade are never on store shelves and are usually cheaper, lighter and shorter than games from traditional outlets. Users need a high-speed Internet connection to purchase through consoles but no special subscriptions.

Portal — This is a masterpiece no longer available only as part of the Orange Box collection but on its own at a cheaper price. However, it is virtually identical to the Orange Box version but with only a bell or whistle — or two — added. If you have it, skip this, but if you don't, stop depriving yourself. It is pure, gaming brilliance.