The Sony PlayStation 3 is a powerful console with impressive graphics, as well as a built-in Blu-ray player for high-definition video buffs. The PlayStation 3 also features online play via the PlayStation Network, for online multiplayer as well as full game downloads. Console owners can now create 3D avatars and interact with other players in Sony's free PlayStation Home service. The latest, and in our opinion, best version of the PS3 is the PS3 Slim, a smaller, lighter version of the console with a substantial 120GB hard drive that currently retails for $299.

The Nintendo DSi is a well-rounded handheld system with an unusual control scheme that combines the traditional gamepad and button controls with a touch-screen interface. Two cameras let you interact with new games in a variety of ways, and the built-in memory lets you store games purchased from the online DSiWare store. The DSi is home to many family-friendly games, as well as some great action, strategy, and puzzle games. The basic system is available in a variety of colors for $169. Nintendo still has the $129 DS Lite for sale, but you won't get access to the DSiWare store or games that take advantage of the DSi's cameras.

A new HDTV is a gift the entire family can enjoy. PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 players will love playing games at full HD resolutions, and everyone can watch high-definition television or Blu-ray movies on the HDTV when it's not being used for gaming. Large 52" LCDs, such as the Samsung LN52B750, are available for about $2,000. We like the Samsung because it has a beautiful screen with a 4ms response time that can handle quick gameplay. The display also has four HDMI ports that provide enough support for an Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and two more HDMI devices.

A racing wheel is an obvious gift for racing game fans. Exchanging the gamepad for a racing wheel transforms the racing experience into a real physical activity where players fight the wheel instead of tapping on the directional pad. The Fanatec Porsche 911 Turbo S is a luxury wheel featuring hand-stitched leather, force feedback, and wireless USB connectivity. The wheel comes in three different editions: ClubSport Edition, 911 Turbo S Edition, and Pure Edition, respectively priced at $479.95, $329.95, and $199. The ClubSport Edition comes with two gear shifters, a 6+1 H-shifter and a sequential shifter, and fancy aluminum pedals. The 911 Turbo S Edition has everything that the ClubSport has (but with less-fancy pedals), and the Pure Edition doesn't come with any pedals at all. We can't do much about the price for the full wheel and pedal sets, but at least they're compatible with the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and PC.

Razer makes high-end peripherals for the discerning player. We feel that this wireless Mamba gaming mouse represents the current pinnacle of mousing technology. The supersensitive 5600DPI sensor and 1000Hz polling rate catch the Mamba's every movement with precision and translates that movement to your computer with little to no lag. Well-made buttons, slick feet, and a highly configurable software suite round out the mouse's bag of tricks. You can use the included recharge dock or plug in a USB wire to recharge the batteries, and you can even convert the mouse to wired mode should the need arise. Priced at $130, the Mamba isn't exactly a budget mouse, but it's quite possibly the most responsive gaming mouse available.