/www.thegametalk.com WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009With realistic images and the first-ever co-op story mode, the leading fighting game franchise is clothes-lining the competition. Wii, X360, PS2, PS3, PSP, DS. ($30-$80)Secret Service: Ultimate SacrificeIt is Inauguration Day in Washington, D.C., and an extremist group has attacked the Capitol. Guess who is in the line of fire? X360, PS2, PC. ($20-$40)
Monster LabSet in the Uncanny Valley where Baron Mharti rules with a cruel hand, players must create their own monster. Wii, PS2, DS. ($30-$40)Better Business Bureau Online (bbb.org). The BBB’s Web site is ready to help fight shady business practices in these turbulent economic times.
FAMILY-FRIENDLY
InteliHealth (intelihealth.com). Sure, it has a funny URL, but Harvard Medical School’s online warehouse of consumer health information has lots of user-friendly articles on health, disease and drugs. BEST BET Remote-Controlled Hand SignsTired of getting cut off in traffic without recourse? Want to go postal in gridlock but can’t? Then let other drivers know exactly how you feel with this R/C sign. ($40)
HOT THIS WEEK
Rubik’s WorldTaking the shape and functionality of the original 1980s sensation, this game features plenty of mental twists and turns for players, young and old. Wii, DS. ($30-$40)My Baby Boy/My Baby GirlThese two games simulate the life of a baby boy or girl — without the smelly diapers and cries in the middle of the night. DS. ($30)
HOT PRODUCTS
Pro-Idee’s Ear Pressure EqualizerSay goodbye to those “pops” caused by airplane trips and other elevation-shifting journeys. ($60)
Quicktionary TS
These electronic dictionary pens aren’t new, but this device features a 400 dpi scanner built into the tip, a high-resolution LCD screen, and a touch-screen. ($189.95).Oregon Scientific SmartGlobeThis isn’t your daddy’s globe. The SmartGlobe includes an interactive base and Smart Pen that lets children participate in 36 learning activities. ($130)