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Whether you crave cruising the solar system, blasting at Nazis, or testing your wits and reflexes against digital opponents or far-flung competitors online, a wealth of PC games are available for giving (and getting) this holiday season.

Leave the PlayStation or Xbox to the kids; we've checked out a selection of shoot-'em-ups and cerebral pastimes you might enjoy this season. Some are upgrades of longtime PC favorites, and others are digital versions of TV games or even board and card games that are holiday staples for many families.

We've categorized the games into logical groups by the age and experience of players.

The first section covers action games, which are suitable for adults or older teens, but definitely fall outside the range of younger children. Following are two sections highlighting games the entire family can enjoy: simulations, online role-playing games, and even a few digital versions of card and board games to help you pass the cold winter evenings.

So break out the eggnog, pop some popcorn, and get comfortable, because these games will take you on some pretty wild rides.

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