Mom and Dad thought they were doing the PC Princess a favor when they bought her a souped-up rig. Now, the former video game newbie is headed straight to the house of Hardcore.

Broken Sword: The Sleeping Dragon (PC, also on XBX)
The classic adventure game series from the early ‘90s returns – now in full 3D. The controls take a little getting used to, but the combination of free exploration, puzzle-solving and occasional action sequences is very stylish. The writing and dialog are top-notch, as well.
[BUY NOW]

FFXI (PC, also on PS2)
The ever-changing Final Fantasy series has finally moved online. This massively multiplayer online game, where PC and PS2 players will be able to play side by side, is already a cult hit. But beware – it’s a complex game that takes a lot of dedication.
[BUY NOW]

Sim City 4 Deluxe (PC)
The granddaddy of all Sim games make a triumphant return with Sim City 4. This Deluxe pack includes the Rush Hour expansion pack and gives you even more ways to torture your little citizens.
[BUY NOW]

Tron 2.0 (PC)
A videogame sequel to the cult ‘80s movie, Tron 2.0 is a great adventure in retro-futurism. Beam yourself into the innards of a computer and blast viruses. ‘Cause that’s what happens inside computers…
[BUY NOW]

Deus Ex: Invisible War (PC, also on XBX)
A slightly more accessible version of the deep-but-confusing Deus Ex, this sequel is a unique mix of action, adventure and RPG. You can fight your way though the plot, or sneak around avoiding combat. Even better – you can work for different factions or play them off against each other in this open-ended sci-fi thriller.
[BUY NOW]