I genrally have a thematic birthday, at least in terms of gifts. Last year it was art-centric and this year was game-centric. So what did I get?

Well, I am probably one of the few serious gamers on the planet without a single game in the Orange Box. So yup, I got a copy of the Orange Box and installed it last night. I just started 2004's Half-Life 2.

I also go Saint's Row 2. I have heard that it is not so hot on a PC, but hey, I am fan of sand-box games and will try it out.

Speaking of sandbox games, Just Cause 2 was released ON my birthday - hard to say no to that, so I snagged it. I am really looking forward to trying this game out - takes a while to get it on a slow internet connection, but I anticipate playing it soon.

And rounding the games out, I also grabbed Left 4 Dead 2 for half-price. It was time, I guess. I am a bit anxious on getting into a game where the players has such a head start in experience, but hey, if I suck because I am a noob, so be it.

Finally, I grabbed an xbox 360 gaming controller. I have an idea that Just Cause 2, GTAIV, Saint's Row 2, and some other games that I have might be easier with a good game pad. I hate the price, but I know that in 3 or 4 years that it is likely that the only thing I am still using will be the game pad - the PC and all the games on it will probably be distant memories.

It is nice to have friends and family that take such good care of me. The best part of my birthday was the time spent with them.