The variety of game software and services that are available directly over the Internet is constantly growing, and it can save you a trip to the store if you are pressed for a last minute gift. Quite a few games can now be downloaded rather than installed from CD, and there are online subscription services to fit almost every gamer's needs.
Direct2Drive is a service offered by IGN Entertainment that allows you to purchase and download a variety of popular PC games directly from their Web site. The number of games available has grown tremendously in the last few years. They have many of 2008's top releases, such as Fallout 3, Call of Duty: World at War, and Spore. It's also a good place to find MMORPGs like EverQuest and Warhammer Online, not to mention a heap of games that you don't often see on store shelves anymore. They also make it possible to send gift downloads by email.
Most people will want a box to wrap, but if it's too late for that, or you can't find the game in stores, Steam is another alternative. Steam itself is a small free program which makes it possible to purchase and download all of Valve's games, as well as a growing number of other titles. Left 4 Dead is very popular this year, and many of EA's games are also now available. The selection has become quite impressive, and there are some great bargains like World of Goo and AudioSurf for people on a tight budget.
The most popular PC game of the season is Wrath of the Lich King, the second expansion for World of Warcraft. An upgrade to Wrath can now be purchased on the official site and acquired through the Blizzard Downloader. The original game and the first expansion, The Burninging Crusade, are available as well. If you know someone that's already immersed in World of Warcraft, additional game time might be the perfect gift.
For the casual gamer who enjoys traditional card and board games, this site from Electronic Arts is among the best around. Card games, backgammon, word games, trivia games, and pool are just a few of the offerings, many of which include substantial cash prizes. A subscription is very affordable and gives you access to popular member-only games in an ad-free environment.
GameTap is a service that launched in 2005 to bring hundreds of classic video games to your desktop over a broadband Internet connection. The GameTap client makes it possible to play their full selection of games, which includes many old Atari 2600 and Sega Genesis titles, on your PC. While this is an arcade gamer's dream come true, they also have a few newer titles such as Homeworld 2, Tomb Raider, and Civilization IV. Access is attained through a monthly subscription, and online gift cards are available.
Sony Online Entertainment is a leading developer of MMOGs, so it stands to reason that some of their products can be downloaded, including full games. Titles available include EverQuest II, Star Wars Galaxies, and Vanguard: Saga of Heroes. It's also the only place to find certain adventure packs and expansions for the EverQuest series.
If you know someone that likes Shockwave games, a subscription to Shockwave Unlimited might be just the thing. Unlimited is Shockwave.com's premium service, offering exclusive games and access without ads or time limits. Bookworm, Pool, Solitaire, and Collapse are just a few of the classics available, some of which have multiplayer options. You have 10 days to try it for free, and if you cancel during that time you won't be charged.
Some hardcore gamers always seem to be downloading large demos, trying to get into the latest beta test, or looking for a better server to play their favorite game on. A FilePlanet subscription gives you access to FilePlanet download servers with no wait times, exclusive betas, use of the GameSpy network with no ads, and more.
People of all ages can enjoy a good arcade, word, card, or puzzle game. We have a variety of casual games for purchase and download right here on About.com, including Bejeweled, Bookworm, Sudoku, Mahjong, Zuma Deluxe, Texas Hold Em, and many others.
Still stuck for a gift or two? Instead of pondering which game to buy, you might want to consider a gift certificate. Thanks to modern technology, you can now purchase them online, order a paper version, or send them by email!
