It's that time of year again when I make my TV and radio appeal to find gifts that aren't ultra violent. Sometimes it seems like every video game is tinged in crimson, hardly the kind of thing you want when everyone comes together to see what is under the tree.
Here are some of the products I'll be demonstrating throughout the holiday season:
Guitar Hero Live ($99.99)
uses filmed action footage to make you feel like a rock star. Using the incredible power of next-gen platforms you'll actually see how the crowd responds to your playing. With free music channels and premium content there's always new songs to play. The game's all-new guitar has three rows with two buttons each, which makes for a more realistic playing experience.
uses filmed action footage to make you feel like a rock star. Using the incredible power of next-gen platforms you'll actually see how the crowd responds to your playing. With free music channels and premium content there's always new songs to play. The game's all-new guitar has three rows with two buttons each, which makes for a more realistic playing experience. If you're looking for games to play with as your kids, start with Skylanders, the number one franchise on video game platforms for children! This year's version, Skylander's Superchargers (from $55.98 on Amazon)
, features vehicles in addition to character action figures. You power up the video game with action figures that make for creative play, on-screen and off. There are gorgeous worlds to explore, races to be won, and even a digital card game that hones critical thinking.
, features vehicles in addition to character action figures. You power up the video game with action figures that make for creative play, on-screen and off. There are gorgeous worlds to explore, races to be won, and even a digital card game that hones critical thinking. When you've got the whole gang together, fire up Just Dance 2016 ($39.99 and up, depending on platform)
. It gets everyone off the couch and dancing with over forty tunes including hits like Uptown Funk and All About That Bass. Depending on your platform, up to six people can play at the same time; all they need is their smartphone, and the free App, no extra accessories needed; a real money saver. Play against your friends, or across the internet; it will even track how many calories you're burning.
. It gets everyone off the couch and dancing with over forty tunes including hits like Uptown Funk and All About That Bass. Depending on your platform, up to six people can play at the same time; all they need is their smartphone, and the free App, no extra accessories needed; a real money saver. Play against your friends, or across the internet; it will even track how many calories you're burning. You'll probably be taking a lot of pictures over the holidays, plus you're going to want to load up on videos to watch on the ride (over the river and through the woods) to grandmother's house. We all have music, photos, and videos on our phones and digital devices. Accessing and sharing them can be a pain, plus I'm always running out of room. With the SanDisk Connect Wireless Stick Wireless Flash Drive for Smartphones, Tablets and Computers ($39.99 and up)
, music, photos and videos can all be stored in this little package. Then, just put it in your bag or pocket, and watch, listen, and share your files, wirelessly on your pc, tablet, or smartphone. Amazing.My favorite toy this year is Anki OVERDRIVE ($149.99), the 21st century’s answer to slot cars. You control the rechargeable, wireless racers using your smartphone or tablet. There are no slots so you can change lanes at will. The track snaps together fast and can be arranged in eight different shapes, plus there are extra pieces you can get that add jumps and other stunts! Race against up to three other players...or practice against the AI. Each car has its own personality and improves the more you win!
Disclaimer: JamesGames.com's radio and TV appearances this season are sponsored by the manufacturer's of these products. They have no editorial control over the content of the segment or this website.
