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It happens every year as the holiday season approaches. Video game retailers stock up on the latest and greatest games of the year. And with that beings the Christmas appeal to find all these games a home under a tree this December. For those who do not keep up with the latest releases it can be hard telling all these Marios and Pokemans apart. By taking some simple steps to prepare yourself to fight off the crowds this holiday season, you should have no trouble finding that perfect game for the special people in your life.

Research – An obvious tip that is often overlooked by parents and spouses. One of the worst things that can happen is picking out a game that has already been conquered several times. Take a minute before heading out to see what is already sitting on their shelf and make note of consistencies such as a large number of racing or sports games. Knowing the battle is half the war won!

Plan Ahead – Another mistake many people make at the holiday season. Waiting until Christmas Eve won’t get you anything but a sad Christmas morning under the tree. Game publishers save their biggest released for the October/November window, and at times it can be hard for them to meet the demand of the consumers. Anyone looking at music based games such as Rock Band or Guitar Hero: World Tour should consider pre ordering to secure a copy in November and try to hide the mammoth box in the closet for a month. If you are afraid it may be found out there, just get Tom Cruise to lock himself in the closet with the presents.

Go Digital – For when the local retailers just don’t cut it the internet is a great way to come across hard to find games. Following standard precautions that you would take on eBay, buying games is just as easy as those pre loved jeans from 1974 that you just had to have. Other online sites such as Play-Asia give buyers a chance to look for overseas merchandise, again saving you big bucks. Check out system compatibility pages often found on these sites if you are unsure about neglecting the Australian economy.

Second Chances – Pre owned bins at EB Games, JB Hifi, or even Cash Converters are sometimes the only way to find certain games today. If you dig through the piles of worn out sport games from 2003 you just may find a more recent second hand game, meaning better value for your dollar at the register. If the packaging itself has seen better days, taking to it with some cotton swabs and nail polish remover can remove those pesky pricing stickers and help make the game look good as new. Remember, what little Johnny don’t know, won’t hurt him.