Video Games the Whole Family Can Enjoy

While it may not be as graphically sophisticated as its competitors, the Nintendo Wii (suggested retail price: $279.95) was a surprise hit in gaming circles when it was released last year.

Part of its success comes from an innovative wireless controller that makes games easy to play - even for someone who's never played a video game before. Ease of play has made the Wii popular with families because mom and dad can join in the fun, and its relatively low price point has also helped fuel sales.

New games for the Wii that are sure to be a hit with families this holiday season are Super Mario Galaxy and Big Brain Academy: Wii Degree. Big Brain Academy is a game of mental challenges that pits you against the console, but is best played against others.

"It provides a competitive and fun social experience," said Nintendo Canada Marketing Manager Farjad Iravani. "It allows parents, kids and grandparents to compete with each other on a level playing field." 

Super Mario Galaxy features the iconic Mario character in a thrilling platform game that launches him into space. The game features a "co-star" mode that allows a person with a second controller to assist in saving the galaxy.

If you're buying your first Wii don't overlook game titles from last holiday season. They are just as fun as the newer ones. Two popular titles to look for are The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess and Mario Party 8. Twilight Princess is an epic fantasy game and Mario Party 8 features the ever-popular Mario in yet another zany game.

The suggested retail price for all of the Nintendo games mentioned above is $59.95, but stores may sell them for less.

In a bid to lure first-time console buyers away from the Wii, Microsoft has bundled a version of its Xbox 360 this holiday season in a low-cost Family Arcade Console package (suggested retail price: $299.99).