My “Trigger Happy” column in the Georgia Straight this week is a look at how video game publishers are using digital downloads as a way to distribute older, popular titles, and even some cult titles that were critical favourites, but maybe didn’t do so well off the shelf on first release.

As I note, this is a revenue stream that is easy for publishers to take advantage of, and it cuts out the middle man that is the traditional retail store.

As television shows and movies get a second life on DVD, so do video games that can be downloaded after their original boxed release in stores. Indeed, the trend toward making more video games available via download goes beyond casual and retro arcade titles. This mode of distribution is breathing new life into whole back catalogues of older games, while generating fresh profits for publishers.

The sidebar of this week’s “Trigger Happy,” my column in the Georgia Straight, are reviews of Haze, Soulcalibur IV, and Dark Sector.

Get the lowdown over here.

This week’s FFWD Weekly includes my list of the best titles for video gamers this holiday season. Fun will be had by those who follow my lead.

It’s a great year to be a gamer. I’ve already written about some of the big games of the fall, including Guitar Hero World Tour, Rock Band 2, Gears of War 2 and Resistance 2. Here are some other great titles to consider gifting to the gamer on your list.

Also in this week’s holiday gift guide issue of the Georgia Straight is my annual list of the best titles to consider getting for the gamer on your list.

It’s been a banner year for the video-game industry, and that means there’s a wealth of possibilities this holiday season for gamers and those seeking gifts for them. In addition to Gears of War 2, Resistance 2, Guitar Hero World Tour, and Rock Band 2 – which I’ve covered recently in this space – here are some options that are certain to please the gamer on your list.

This week is the annual Georgia Straight holiday gift guide. Included is my list of gadgets and technology that will make your favourite technogeek swoon.

The pace of technological innovation isn’t slowing down, so gadget geeks appreciate any excuse to upgrade to the latest, greatest device. Here are a bunch that will bring a smile to your favourite tech nerd’s face this holiday season.