Father’s Day is the ideal day for dads of all types, from those with a newborn to those with kids who have moved out of the house, to kick back and celebrate in their own way. This could be with watching sports, doing yard work, settling back for a fine little cookout or, in some cases, video games.
With that, we’ve got a few ideal suggestions for dear ol’ Dad. Whether it’s something sports related, a fun little racer, or a full-blown action game, grab your kids and settle in for good gaming. Or if you’re on the child side of that equation, place him in an easy chair and turn on the game console.
Here are some suggestions to get started with…
Sega Bass Fishing (Xbox Live, PlayStation Network)
Even though this port isn’t quite the same as playing with a dedicated fishing controller on the Dreamcast, Sega Bass Fishing made a good transition to the digital gaming front last year. And unlike most fishing efforts out there, it’s built upon a simple gameplay system, so anyone can toss their lure into the lake and fight to catch themselves a big trout. Sure, you can’t gut it and put it on the grill afterward, but at least you’ll still be hungry for pizza afterwards…
Tiger Woods PGA Tour 13 (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3)
Golf can be fun, depending on whether you’re playing it and trying to avoid throwing your clubs in the water, or watching it on TV and seeing if Tiger Woods can ever find his edge. It’s all about finding a happy place between the two in playing a golf video game – and that’s where Tiger Woods PGA Tour 13 gets its right. Featuring a number of courses, modes and professional heavy hitters ready to chase the links, this edition is one of the better ones in the series to date.
Gears of War 3 (Xbox 360)
There’s nothing like a meaty action game to take on with your dad, and, provided you’re of age for it (it is rated Mature), Gears of War 3 is a great choice. Whether you’re taking on all comers in the multiplayer match-ups or going after the Locusts in Horde Mode, there’s plenty of opportunity for you to team up with your old man and wipe out the opposition. Just make sure that he isn’t stuck with a lesser soldier – it’s his day, let him have all the major firepower.
Battlefield 3 (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3)
It was a tough call between this and Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, but when we’re talking teeth-gritting action and no-holds-barred situations with tanks and jets, there’s nothing that can topple Battlefield 3. With a number of great maps available, tons of enemies to take down, and all sorts of frenetic situations to try and survive through, the latest from EA and DICE offers plenty of fun that your dad should have no trouble getting into.
NOTE: You might want to hold off on this selection if he has recurring visions from “the war”, whichever war that is…
Rayman Origins (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Wii)
While Rayman Origins may not be the most “manly” choice of games out there for your Dad, there’s really no question about how enjoyable it is. Plus, kids of all ages can easily get into it, running through side scrolling stages and slapping each other silly for some gut-busting laughter. The beautiful animation and fun teamwork options make this a title that any father can certainly enjoy.
Forza Motorsport 4 (Xbox 360)
You want an elite racing game to get your father excited? Perhaps he’d feel better driving behind the wheel of a Porsche and making the opposition eat his dust. While Gran Turismo is an easy recommend on the PS3, there’s something about Forza Motorsport 4 on the Xbox 360 that stands out even more. Maybe it’s the online multiplayer races, or the Kinect integration that lets you play inside of a car (dads like that) or the beautiful visuals that really bring the races to life. Heck, maybe it’s all of that, and more.
Red Dead Redemption (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3)
Dads like Westerns, right? We’re talking the old Clint Eastwood variety, where the “stranger” stands up to the opposition and wipes them out without even breaking a sweat. If your dad’s like that, then Red Dead Redemption is a must. Rockstar Games did wondrous work with this adventurous Western, giving you control of your gun-toting cowboy hero as he ventures across the land, fighting banditos, completing missions and hunting for wild game. The only catch is that once you introduce your dad to it, he might not stop playing.
Mass Effect 3 (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3)
Maybe your dad isn’t a Western fan but into science fiction and saving the world. If that’s the case, say hello to Mass Effect 3. Featuring hours worth of missions to complete, stellar stage design that changes with each new planet you visit, and a variety of character options that truly teaches you the components of teamwork, Mass Effect 3 certainly can’t be beat. If it helps any, you can also introduce your dad to Mass Effect 2 to try and set the tone for the series. (But, remember, he only has one day to celebrate.)
DiRT Showdown (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3)
If dad is in the mood for monster truck-style racing action, where things get down and dirty in a hurry, DiRT Showdown is an ideal choice. The game features a wide variety of racing events, including demolition derbies and Knock-Off events that are sure to put a smile on his destruction-loving face. Just watch out if he gets a little too competitive. You might never win again.
Madden NFL 12 (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3)
Finally, who can deny a good game of football? Certainly not me, and definitely not a lot of fathers out there. There’s nothing like picking your favorite team and hitting the field for a competitive game of Madden, complete with various team strategies and big plays that are likely to keep you in the hunt for the victory.
But, hey, maybe you should let your dad win. Otherwise, you might be grounded to the point you never watch a live football game again. Sometimes they can hold a grudge, especially if they’re using Peyton Manning…
