Classic Video Game Systems

Ask any kid what he wants for Christmas this year, and chances are good that the words "video game" will pop up somewhere in the conversation. Video games are an everyday part of life for most kids these days! Chances are, your child or the child on your Christmas shopping list would love a video game this holiday season.

Before you start to worry about turning your child into a couch potato, keep in mind that video games can not only provide fun and entertainment for your kids, but they can also be educational tools as well. In addition, they help to develop hand-eye coordination as well.

Video games have come a long way in recent years, but for some kids and even some adults, a trip down memory lane is a great idea for a Christmas gift. Game systems such as the 16-bit Nintendo, the Sega Genesis, and the Atari are just a few game systems that young adults are sure to remember fondly.

Where to Find Them
With the popularity of such newer systems as the XBox, Playstation 2, and Nintendo Game Cube, older "vintage" systems will probably be more difficult for you to find. You can find Nintendo Entertainment Systems, Sega Genesis, Atari, and their games and accessories in use video game stores, on amazon.com, or on ebay. The prices for these systems, games, and accessories vary widely depending on popularity and rarity. Games that are harder to find will fetch a steeper price than more common ones.

Because they are older, it's important to purchase a used system from someone who will guarantee its use, either through a refund or exchange of another working system. Don't buy a system as-is, as it could only lead to disappointment when your child goes to play it on Christmas day and finds out it doesn't work.

Keep in mind that these systems are hardly cutting-edge technology, so kids who are looking for cutting-edge graphics and systems that can play their favorite CDs and movies will probably not be thrilled to find a vintage Atari under the tree this year.

Recommendations:
The following are some systems and games from back in the day that we're sure any video game lover will enjoy.

• Nintendo Entertainment System (from $34.99 on amazon.com). The system that revolutionized the video game industry in the 80's, the Nintendo has 8-bit graphics for such cult classic games as Mario Brothers, The Adventures of Zelda, Duck Hunt, Paperboy, Jaws, and dozens of others. Accessories such as the Light Gun for Duck Hunt and other shooting games will most likely be sold separately unless you purchase a lot or boxed set.
• Sega Genesis. (from $50.00 on amazon.com). The Sega Genesis is another classic system children from the 80's are sure to remember. The classic arcade-style graphics and games such as Sonic the Hedgehog and Mortal Kombat were popular for the Sega Genesis. Like the Nintendo, Genesis systems and their games have become a collector's item, so they're a good gift choice for the video game enthusiast and collector.

Video games and video game systems have come a long way in recent years. The graphics are better than ever before, and they come loaded with features. However, for those kids or adults who wouldn't mind a blast from the past, a vintage system such as the Nintendo or Sega are great gift ideas that are sure to provide hours of entertainment.