Though 2012 has been a relatively lackluster year for video games, this holiday season aims to change that with a slew of major releases. Here are a few games to consider buying for yourself or for friends—as well several to avoid.

Games to look for

Ubisoft’s open-world first-person shooter (FPS) had high expectations, and early reviews indicate that it has exceeded them. Stranded on a Pacific island, the player has effectively free control over whatever he or she chooses to do. For example, though the game allows for dual wielding, Jason Brody, the player-protagonist, only starts with one holster, meaning he has to build a new one to carry a second weapon. Though most FPS players would not normally list crafting as an integral part of the gaming experience, “Far Cry 3” skillfully integrates it into its open-world construct, one that manages to thrill and enthrall. While the plot is subpar, gamers will still enjoy being enveloped by the beautiful, virtually limitless environment.

A remake of the 1994 “UFO: Enemy Unknown,” “XCOM” is a turn-based strategy game that remains far more faithful to its forerunner than more recently developed spin-offs. This also means that it’s far more difficult than your average game these days and will frustrate all but the most determined of gamers. However, the game also has its own feel, one that enables it to stand on its own, beside—and not behind—the original. “XCOM,” far more than its competitors, creates battlefields covered by fog of war and peppered by gunfire and not mere grids for squad members to stand. Thrill seekers will enjoy “XCOM”, every move and action is a perilous decision, as you consider which shots to take, what technologies to develop and where to move soldiers. One poor decision will result in the death of a soldier you were just beginning to know and love. Few games today offer the budding tactician this level of intrigue or difficulty.

Called the “new standard of open-world driving games” by Edge magazine, Criterion Games’ addition to the long established franchise offers an unparalleled experience for racing fans. The visuals are beautiful, representative of the overall excellent attention to detail displayed by the producers. The 41 vehicles range from a Dodge Challenger SRT-8 to Lamborghini’s flagship Aventador. In true “Need for Speed” style, breaking the law grants the player “Speed Points,” which can be exchanged for add-ons, so you can attach a nitrous exhaust to your otherwise beautiful Aston Martin V12 Vantage.

Nintendo is starting the eighth generation of console gaming with the WiiU, a console that could continue in the innovative steps of the Wii, or fail to attract a large audience. Fortunately for buyers, Nintendo fans are loyal and optimistic, and the device is selling out as quickly as its predecessor. The WiiU’s new controller, the GamePad, acts as a second, tough sensitive screen, which can display a map, allow the player to throw shuriken, or, once TVii is released, act as a universal remote. However, Nintendo will face issues in the future with the WiiU. Some features feel like Nintendo is trying to catch up to Sony and Microsoft, such as 1080p output, which has been standard for years on the 360 and PS3. Most critical will be competition with mobile platforms, which have come to dominate the casual market. Still, initial results are positive, indicating that Mario will be around for at least a few more years.

Games to avoid

While Treyarch should be commended for bringing some variation to the stagnant “Call of Duty” franchise, “Black Ops 2” is not sufficiently varied from its predecessors to warrant being purchased, except by those who remain obsessed with its online community. “007 Legends” misses the mark in a way Bond never would; the game attempts and fails to be a clone of more popular, successful franchises. “FIFA 13” is literally unchanged from “FIFA 12” on the Wii and PlayStation Vita, and is to be avoided. “Hitman: Absolution” and “Assassin’s Creed III” each fail to live up to the expectations of their respective series.