Nerdvana presents … Gifts for the Geeky!
Dungeons & Dragons: The Red Box
For the nostalgic geek, nothing takes them back more than that delightful red cardboard box rattling with dice that, chances are, gave them their first experience with the fantasy roleplaying game Dungeons & Dragons. This year Wizards of the Coast launched a new version of the introductory set for the 4th Edition of the game, complete with throwback artwork and a “choose-your-path” adventure that offers the best explanation of the game’s arcane rules since the original Red Box in 1983. Priced at $20 and finally — finally — available at mainstream stores like Target and Wal-Mart, the product is just meant to get players’ feet wet, and further expansion books are required if they wish to journey far. But the greatest gift D&D fans can get this Christmas is knowing that this icon of popular culture is more accessible than it has been in a long time, and maybe ever. Read more >>
If that’s not enough, Ben’s RPG Pile, a blog affiliated with the 24-hour Mesa gaming superstore Gamer’s Inn, is packed with great gift ideas for the tabletop roleplayer and wargamer.
Nintendo DSi and DSi XL
If your loved one doesn’t already have a Nintendo DSi or DSi XL, the larger-screen variant, chances are they can probably wait even longer until March, when the 3-D version hits shelves. But at $150 to $180, the popular handheld systems from the company that practically invented portable video games have never been more affordable — and their library of inexpensive games is hard to beat. Read more >>
Wii Shop Channel points
Speaking of Nintendo, since they finally have added some playable demos to their online Wii software store, there may be someone in your life itching to download some new games. Score some points by giving them the gift of choice with Wii points to spend, available in card form at most places where Wii games are sold. (DSi points are also available.)
If that’s not tangible enough, try some of the new accessories and bundles Nintendo has rolled out this year.
Xbox gear
If your gaming loved one has had their Xbox 360 for a while, and they’ve managed to elude the Red Ring of Death, chances are their controllers are looking like they’ve been through a war or two. Rectify that with Microsoft’s new version of the classic device featuring monochrome buttons and a transforming directional pad that can be twisted around to switch from a flat surface to an actual raised D-pad. The unit comes packed with the new Play & Charge kits for about $65. Read more >>
