I guess I'm what most people would consider an older gamer myself and I've read several really good choices given to you so far. You mentioned your dad doesn't like the button-mashing games. What about games like Advance Wars, Hotel Dusk, or if he likes sports there's the new Tiger Woods 08 orMadden 08. I liked someone's idea to wait for the new Legend of Zelda next month, I know that's what I'm waiting for. Anyway, get your dad started slow and I'm sure once he becomes hooked like me he'll be playing games like Castlevania, Metroid or maybe even a little Tony Hawk. Or any Mario game, they're all fun. Good Luck