It’s that time of year again – time to do your last minute shopping and satisfy the gamer needs of your family, friends and other loved ones. Rather than rushing out and buying a forgettable game, though, how about getting those ideal stocking stuffers that they’ll love? If you need assistance with that, don’t worry, we’re here to help!
This guide provides 10 great picks for the PlayStation 3. Despite the fact that Sony moved on to the new PlayStation 4, there’s still plenty of folks who prefer this console. With that, here are 10 selections that are sure to make someone’s holiday even brighter!
Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 ReMIX (Square Enix)
Kingdom Hearts easily stands as one of the best role-playing adventures from the previous generation, with its delightful mix of strategic action and Disney-based universes. Square Enix somehow made the game even better with HD 1.5 ReMIX, which features the “final cut” of the original game, as well as Re:Chain of Memories and the story sequences from 358/2 Days. On top of that, the refreshing new presentation makes the games look better than ever before.
Batman: Arkham Origins (WB Games)
The Dark Knight returns in this all-new prequel, and if you’ve got comic book friends, they’re sure to love this. Batman returns to take on a slew of villains, including new favorites like Deathstroke and the Electrocutioner, as well as the returning Joker. Featuring a larger city to explore, a number of Bat toys to take advantage of and gameplay that will keep players fighting and swooping through the sky, this is one Origins tale worth telling.
NBA 2K14 (2K Sports)
Who doesn’t like basketball? Oh, sure, Knicks fans may be taking a beating right now, but with 2K Sports’ thrilling simulation, anyone can be a champion. With second-to-none gameplay that gives players ultimate control over everything their team is doing on the court, the game truly shines. On top of that, the presentation really goes a long way to recreating the ambience of each arena, including cheering crowds and authentic organ music. Throw in additional modes and online play, and you’ve got a slam dunk for your devoted sports fans.
Bioshock Infinite (2K Games)
One of the most startlingly original first-person shooter adventures in years, Bioshock Infinite is a great pick. This game comes jam-packed with action, as well as a vivid aerial city that you can explore as you attempt to find Elizabeth and avoid the wicked grasp of the mighty Songbird. With plenty of innovative weapons, challenging side modes and gorgeous visuals, this is a game that’s easy to recommend.
Ratchet and Clank: Into the Nexus (SCEA)
Insomniac Games may have been keeping busy with efforts on other consoles – like this year’s Fuse and the forthcoming Sunset Overdrive for Xbox One – but that didn’t stop it from producing another entertaining chapter in the Ratchet and Clank saga. Into the Nexus wraps up the Future series in style, with the duo chasing after a pair of intergalactic thugs out to wreak havoc across the universe. With a number of new weapons, signature action gameplay and a fairly affordable price of $19.99, this is perfect for anyone who loves a good adventure.
Assassin’s Creed 4: Black Flag (Ubisoft)
It’s amazing how you’ll be able to fit an epic pirate adventure into someone’s stocking – but that’s just what you can do with the latest in Ubisoft’s Assassin’s Creed series. With hours’ worth of missions to complete – both pirating related and side duties like treasure hunting and whaling – this game has replay value galore. Throw in beautiful visuals that really make players feel like they’re walking on a tropical island and great music – gotta love those shanties – and it’s easy to see why it’s a hearty addition to our list. All you have to do now is include a parrot and an eye patch in the package, and maybe a book on how to speak pirate. ARRRRRR!
Gran Turismo 6 (SCEA)
The latest in Polyphony Digital’s simulation racing series just cleared the starting gate, and if you have a friend or family member with a penchant for getting behind the wheel of a sleek ride, this experience can’t be beat. Gran Turismo 6 is easily the best looking entry to date, with a number of tracks to race worldwide and over 1,000 sweet rides to choose from. It also has a vast online community, as well as the kind of gameplay players can really sink their driving mitts into. With new features and DLC planned in the months ahead, it shows no signs of slowing down.
DuckTales Remastered (Capcom)
If you have friends or family that grew up in the 80s, chances are they fondly remember the Disney Afternoon programming block – in which DuckTales, a series focusing on Scrooge McDuck and his family, was a highlight. Now they’ve returned with Capcom’s glorious DuckTales Remastered, a remake of the classic NES game. Featuring solid music from Jake Kaufman, the original voice cast from the 80’s cartoon and plenty of cane-hopping gameplay, this game is a blast for all ages. Plus, it’s very affordable, clocking in at just $20. That’s enough to make anyone go, “Whoo-hoo!”
The Last of US (SCEA)
Naughty Dog’s The Last of Us is without question one of the finest games we’ve played. Focusing on a pair of survivors trying to work their way across a war-battered countryside while battling the odds thrown against them, the game introduces plenty of dramatic themes, but also thought-provoking gameplay that will have players plotting their next moves wisely. Also, the graphics and voiceovers are among the best you’ll find for the system, and the multiplayer is surprisingly addictive. If you’ve got older friends that don’t mind the more mature themes, The Last of Us is definitely a purchase worth making.
Madden NFL 25 (EA Sports)
Finally, there are a lot of folks out there who love football, so why not gift them the ultimate simulation from EA Sports? Madden NFL 25 covers every aspect of the sport almost perfectly, whether they’re into heavy passing, the running game or coming from behind on a defensive play. It also serves each team well – even those New York Giants – so they can create a Super Bowl contender in no time. Finally, the online community thrives with various players, and between direct competition and Fantasy Football elements, there’s plenty to do. This one easily scores a touchdown with us – and it will with you as well.
