Top 10 Most Wanted Video Games for the Holiday Season

Wondering what presents to get your loved ones for the holidays this year? Of course you aren't, it's not even Halloween yet. All the same, Nielsen just released a survey of the most wanted games of the holiday season.

It'll be hard to wait for most of these blockbuster games, but most should be out before you carve the turkey and will make a good outlet for all that family frustration. Here are the games, in order, of what gamers said they would like in their stockings and why they are so highly anticipated.

1) Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3
Release date: Nov. 8

Platform: Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC

Little surprise that Call of Duty is one of the most wanted games of the holiday season since the franchise is currently the most popular series in gaming. The game continues the story of Sgt. Soap MacTavish as he trots around the globe.

But people care more about the multiplayer, which will feature much more customization. Kill streaks will be replaced by point streaks and players can now customized their streaks for more offensive air raids or take rewards that support the team. There will also be a whole slew of new weapons and perks to unlock as you climb the ranks.

2) Gears of War 3

Release date: Already released.

Platform: Xbox 360

Just out two weeks back, the game is already the best selling game of the year. It features the next chapter in humanity's struggle against the ugly, but not-so-evil subterranean bad guys, The Locus.

The game features updated graphics and tweaks to the multiplayer that make it much more fast paced and addictive. Also included are some new weapons like the retro lance, an incredibly fun new weapon that allows you to run up to your enemies and impale them in a way that is gloriously gory.

3) Madden NFL 12

Release date: Already released.

Platform: Xbox 360, PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, Wii

The list wouldn't be complete without a Madden title, and Madden NFL 12 would make a great gift for any football fan. EA put much of this year's improvements into the game's AI and animation. Different characters actually play more like individuals, where some will throw the ball quicker than others and some will preform better when the game is close.

The game features some much harder modes, like the All-Pro difficulty that will challenge even the most seasoned Madden players.

4) Assassin's Creed: Revelations

Release date: Nov. 15

Platform: Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC

The new game takes protagonist, Ezio, to Constantinople in search of five seals that unlock a immensely powerful weapon hidden by a past Assassin Creed character. Bombs will become a big part of Ezio's arsenal along with the hookblade and Greek Fire (think ancient flamethrower).

Expect plenty of great action scenes, better rooftop running and even more sneaky and ruthless ways to dispatch your targets.

5) Batman: Arkham City

Release date: Oct. 18

Platform: Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC

In this sequel to Batman: Arkham Asylum, the caped crusader must brave the Gotham City district of Arkham City and face classic Batman villain Professor Hugo Strange. Batman will have a few more gadgets along with more offensive and defensive moves.

Catwomen will be added as a playable character in the game. Developers say she will play much different than Batman with her claws and whip. Also playable is Robin, but only if you pre-order the game from Best Buy.

6) The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword

Release date: Nov. 20

Platform: Nintendo Wii

Arguably Nintendo's most popular franchise, Skyward Sword brings Link back to once again defend Hyrule and save Princess Zelda. The game will let players take control of Link like they never have before with one-to-one Motion Plus controls. This means Links sword will mirror the exact moments players make with their Wiimote controller.

The game has a very big sky theme as players ride a giant bird between flying continents. Also the game will feature much less of difference between the game world and dungeons, as players are expected to return to levels when they accumulate new weapons and equipment.

7) Battlefield 3

Release date: Oct. 5

Platform: Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC

The Battlefield franchise returns without a subtitle, the last one being Battlefield: Bad Company 2, meaning we should expect some big changes. Battlefield games are all about scope, and this game has an even grander scope with huge action packed set pieces and better destructible environments.

A new multiplayer mechanic, Suppressive Fire, allows players to halt their enemies health regeneration and make their camera's shake to prevent them from firing back. EA will also launch a new social gaming Web site that is much like Facebook, except it tracks how many people you've killed.

8) Just Dance 3

Release date: Oct. 11

Platform: Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Wii

The psychedelic dance game, Just Dance 3 returns with over 45 new and classic dance hits. The game features better multiplayer options and a revamped Just Sweat fitness mode. Xbox 360 players will be able to sing along during some segments for extra points.

9) NBA 2K12

Release date: Oct. 4

Platform: Xbox 360, PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, Wii

2K Sports made many improvements to the already impressive basketball series. Last year's Jordan Challenge mode let players recreate some of Micheal's most impressive achievements with in-game goals. This year players get to follow in the footsteps of greats like Larry Bird, Magic Johnson and Scottie Pippen.

The game's defensive AI is not a cheap this year, which some players though was too good. Also the players look more human rather than soulless, big-head aliens. The My Player mode is much improved giving players much more drafting options.

10) Need for Speed: The Run

Release date: Nov. 15

Platform: Xbox 360, PC

Players will have to get away from the police and the mob in this new thrill ride that takes them across the country. The game is a mix of driving, quick time events and impressive set pieces. One scene has players dodge a helicopter attack while escaping from Chicago.

Players are a little squeamish about the inclusion of quick time events, which forces players to quickly press buttons during usually non-interactive cinemas, but expect some top-notch racing.