By Andy Robertson
 
Andy Robertson (@geekdadgamer) is a freelance journalist who runs http://www.gamepeople.co.uk and produces the http://www.youtube.com/familygamertv YouTube channel.
 
As we get closer to the holidays, there are all sorts of lists and advice about what aunties should be buying their nephews and nieces. For videogames, this can be all the harder as it’s difficult to know what each will be like before playing them.
 
Here are my top auntie tips for gaming presents this holiday season:
 
Rocksmith Teaches Guitar
Rocksmith offers an experience that takes rhythm action games genuinely into the realm of music tuition. It uses a real guitar to play it and teaches players, of all ages, chords and plucking technique.


 
Pokemon Typing Clever
Pokemon can be about more than collecting them all. In fact, this Pokemon Typing Tutor game is an excellent way to get nieces and nephews better at their keyboard skills this holiday:



Skylanders Giants, Don’t Collect them All
Skylanders Giants is a great way to play together this holiday, as I mentioned in my big Skylanders Review, it’s the figures that make the game the most fun. Be warned though, you only need a handful to complete the game. Trying to collect them all will break the bank.


 
Wonderbook Storytelling
Finally, Wonderbook Book of Spells is a great way to engage in a new Harry Potter story together this holiday. Just put the blank pages in front of the PS3 and watch them come to life. Really very magical!


 
Style Savvy Trendsetter
Style Savvy Trendsetter may sounds like another mini-game collection on the 3DS; but actually, you have to pay close attention to what each customer wears and says if you want to pick out the right clothes. You also have to manage staff, monitor stock, and arrange your window display. Lots of auntie fun!


 
Dance Yourself Fit
Just Dance 4 is great fun on the Wii, PS3 Move, and 360 Kinect. But on the Wii U, a fifth player can join in to control the moves everyone has to make. Watch out aunties! Your nieces and nephews are going to be controlling your workout!



Published: November 26, 2012