Top Games Span Swords to Spongebob

Managers at the biggest game retailers, and , refer all questions about gaming trends to their corporate headquarters. But a review of the best-seller lists show the clear trend for this winter's games is richly produced graphics and dark themes.

At the top of most best-seller lists is Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3. Released in early November, the latest in the popular series sold a record-breaking 6.5 million copies on its first day, according to Activision, the game’s publisher. Available in Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 and Wii platforms, the action ranges from Afghanistan to Europe to the United States and back. The game is rated M (Mature audiences) for its violence and mature subject matter.

Fantasy lovers will have another chance to battle the “demon lord” Ghirahim in The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword. Released in the United States just before Thanksgiving, the sixteenth entry in the series takes advantage of the Wii platform’s interactive features to let the user practice swordplay and strategy. The game is recommended for users age 10 and older.

While parents need to be sure games are age-appropriate, there's plenty to choose from for all ages. For younger gamers, Super Mario 3D Land and Mario Kart 7 (for Nintendo 3DS) and New Super Mario Brothers (Nintendo DS) bring additional depth to the hand-held games and the characters, who’ve been around since 1983. Another entry for kids, Spongebob Squarepants: The Yellow Avenger, is available for PSP systems.

Hard-core gamers and enthusiasts who want to get away from video will enjoy a trip to . A brick-and-mortar outgrowth of a successful online business, the shop offers board games and collectible items, as well as used video games and consoles. B&B is also known for its live gaming nights, which will include Dungeons and Dragons, Pokemon and Warmachine in December.