Get plugged into the best games and the latest peripherals this Christmas.
Kinect
Microsoft’s Kinect is a revolutionary control system where you are the controller.
This slim, black sensor plugs into an Xbox 360 and contains a camera, audio sensors and motion-detecting technology. It can track 48 points of movement in the human body, registering this in games.
From release, there are already a slew of games implementing this unique controller. Dance games where you copy dance moves onscreen, adventure games where you jump and kick to dodge obstacles, sports games which let you re-enact your favourite sports in your sitting room – the possibilities are endless to make your sitting room more active.
Platform: Xbox 360
Where: Leading games stores
PlayStation Move
The PlayStation Move combines the PlayStation Eye camera and the PlayStation Move controller for motion-based gaming. With its unique design, it offers an accurate controller, allowing you to make more accurate movements in a game.
Many games are already available for the peripheral, offering more realistic motion gaming. You can use the controller to sword fight, to take care of your virtual pet, to aim at targets – and that’s just the start.
Platform: PlayStation 3
Where: Leading games stores
Nintendo Wii Remote Plus
The Wii Remote Plus offers an updated Wii Remote with built-in Wii MotionPlus hardware. This boosts the precision compared to the standard Wii Remote, providing a more accurate control system. With every shake, swing and twist, the new controller can replicate it better than ever before.
It has the same physical dimensions as the standard controller and all compatible peripherals can be plugged into it as before. The Wii Remote Plus is available in four colours – white, black, pink and blue.
Platform: Nintendo Wii
Where: Leading games stores
Assassin’s Creed Brotherhood
Take on the role as Ezio, a master assassin, struggling against the powerful Templar Order. In order to defeat the tyranny, he must command an entire brotherhood. You can recruit young assassins and deploy them across the city or use them to aid your quests.
The latest in the popular Assassin’s Creed franchise, the single-player mode lets you explore the enormous city of Rome and you can collaborate with real historical figures, such as Leonardo da Vinci and Caterina Sforza.
This game introduces a multiplayer layer to the series. Players can fight against each other globally, choosing from a wide range of characters, each with their own signature weapons and assassination techniques.
Platform: PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
Where: Gamestop.ie, and leading games stores
Fable III
The third instalment of the blockbuster franchise, Fable III is an action adventure, which lets you lead a revolution in order to seize the throne from the tyrant king Logan to take control of Albion.
You must fight with your people, become the ruler of Albion and experience love and loss as you defend your position. Your choices throughout the game will change your world, depending on how you play. Become a just ruler or a greater tyrant than the one before you? The choice is yours.
Platform: Xbox 360
Where: Gamestop.ie and leading games stores
Wii Party
Wii Party lets up to four players play more than 80 mini-games on the Nintendo Wii. Starring your own personal Mii character, you can compete and co-operate with other players in 13 game modes.
The game incorporates your home into the game in House Party mode. The Hide ‘n’ Hunt game, for example, has you searching through your house for the hidden Wii Remote before time runs out. The Wii Remote will make the occasional sound to give a clue as to where it is.
Wii Party also has Pair Games and Party Games modes for a variety of part-based challenges. Each copy comes with a white Wii Remote included to get the party started.
Platform: Nintendo Wii
Where: Leading games stores
