MIKE YAWNEY
While no new gaming consoles launched this year, check out these unique limited edition bundles. Xbox One Limited Edition Halo 5: Guardians Console — $549.00 There is no denying the Halo franchise is a force to be reckoned with, so it comes as no surprise Microsoft is releasing this limited edition Xbox One console for the holidays. The design of the console itself is inspired by Spartan technology and has a massive 1TB hard drive to store your games and media. The wireless controller has also been redesigned with a new 3.5-mm headset jack. Other bonus items include a Spartan-themed SteelBook case with Halo 5:
Guardians Limited Edition full game download, a Guardian model and exclusive downloadable content. Star Wars Battlefront PlayStation 4 Console — $469.99 The ultimate PlayStation bundle for any Star Wars fan, this unique console bears the image of Darth Vader’s mask, while the DualShock wireless controller is designed after his chest panel. Not only does this come with the highly anticipated Star Wars Battlefront game, it also includes four additional classic Star Wars games to keep even the best gamers busy over the holidays.
New Nintendo 3DS XL — $229.99 3D gaming with less eye strain. Nintendo’s latest hand-held console features not only a larger screen for more immersive gameplay, but new technology. Super stable 3D allows for a better experience and wider range of viewing angles. The handheld device features built-in NFC functionality for communication with Nintendo’s new Amiibo figures. HP Pavilion Gaming Notebook — $899 and up This surprisingly affordable, stylish laptop was designed with the gamer in mind. Armed with a quad-core processor and powerful graphics card, the latest laptop from HP can play the newest PC titles with ease. Since sound can play a huge role in games, HP teamed up with Bang & Olufsen to create an immersive audio experience. Even the webcam has been enhanced with Intel RealSense to allow for facial recognition, 3D scanning and motion controls. Xbox owners will also be able to connect to the Xbox community and games thanks to Windows 10.
RetroN 5 — $169.99 A single-game console with enhanced resolution and improved sound, RetroN 5 can host games from10 different systems supporting NES, Famicom, SNES, Super Famicom, Genesis, Mega Drive, Game Boy, Game Boy Colour and Game Boy Advance. And the best part? You can save on the fly, so those brutally challenging games become manageable. Gamers must have the original cartridges to play games.
iPod Touch — $249.00 and up With access to thousands of games, Apple’s iPod Touch has quickly become a favourite for those who love to play on the go. The latest iPod Touch has a significantly improved processor. Gaming is only part of the package; with a terrific camera and access to apps, you can use the iPod Touch to do just about anything.