There’s no doubt video games can be expensive. But they can also be a blast to play, and there are a surprisingly large number of games that truly are fun for the whole family. Here are some that won’t break the bank this Christmas - and a few more that will.

Most video game consoles will set you back at least $200. After the initial investment, games will cost extra - but these days, most console systems also double as DVD and media players, so take that into account when choosing one!

First up let’s focus on Sony’s home consoles. The PlayStation consoles are huge here, even more so than many other countries.

Sony PlayStation 2 ($149-220)
PlayStation 2 has been around since 2001 and is by far the cheapest console. However, despite its age it’s still worth picking up - there are hundreds of games available, usually for much less than newer titles. There are also a large number of casual, family-friendly games you can pick up for it. You can often find a deal that includes a PlayStation 2 console along with a SingStar or Buzz title, which gives a lot of bang for your buck.

PlayStation 3 ($700-800)
The new PlayStation features graphics and capabilities that go far beyond its predecessor - but naturally it’s one expensive beast. Along with the Xbox 360, this console is most suited to enthusiast gamers - but it still has its own versions of games like SingStar and Buzz.

The PlayStation 3 is also a Blu-ray player, so if you have an LCD or Plasma TV, it could be worth picking up for that reason alone (as our editor has). It can also connect to the internet to download new games and movie trailers, and also store and play your music and videos.

Here are some family-friendly titles available on these machines:

SingStar series ($40-60, or $100-120 with two microphones)
Available on: PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3

If you fancy yourself as a singer, be warned: this series was built to make you realise just how terrible you are. The game includes about 30 songs and scores you based on how well you match the pitch of the vocals. It’s fast and easy to set up, and can get competitive if you play some of the party modes.

There are about a dozen versions of SingStar on the PlayStation 2, and a growing collection on the PlayStation 3, so you should be able to find a track list that suits you. Your own musical taste might not match up with the kids’ modern pop, but who’s holding the credit card here? Just don’t blame me for what happens if you decide to go with SingStar Disney ...

Buzz series ($50-70, or around $80-120 with set of four buzzers)
Available on: PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3

Another great family-oriented game that comes with its own control scheme, Buzz is like a cross between Trivial Pursuit and a game show. With a simple buzzer in hand, you and three others choose a character and then compete in a variety of rounds. There are a number of themed games, from sports to music to absolutely everything, so pick one you think the whole family will enjoy and you’re away.

For younger gamers, there are also a variety of Buzz Junior titles worth checking out - they use the buzzers, but forego the quiz format for a collection of fun mini games.

LittleBigPlanet ($100-120)
Available on: PlayStation 3

This is a hard game to describe. Essentially, it’s like playing in a digital sandbox - you make a little character, customise it with clothes and stickers, and proceed to play with physics in a variety of levels. But the best part is that you can make your own levels from scratch, or download the creations of anyone from around the world. LittleBigPlanet supports up to four players and is one of the most charming (and good looking) multiplayer games.

Coming soon: a look at the Nintendo Wii and Microsoft’s Xbox 360.

Read more - check out our article on Christmas gifts for kids.

 

 Tristan Clark - Technical Writer

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