Going by your descriptions, LittleBigPlanet 2 looks to be the best fit and would've been a great Christmas present but unfortunately won't be out by then.
So here are some alternatives I can think of:
LittleBigPlanet: The game is one of a kind. Use your creativitiy to create awesome levels and share with everyone around the world. This game will last you for a good deal. Plus if you happen to buy the DLC packs, they will all translate into LBP2, which is a major plus so that it means that you haven't wasted money on them and carry over to LBP 2.
Uncharted 2 Among Thieves: It's 2009's definitive Game of the Year for several reasons.
1) Best Action Adventure Game out on Consoles. It's the perfect blend of action, story telling and compelling characters.
2) Still hailed as Graphics King on Consoles.
3) The single player is so good that it'll make you wanna play it over again and again.
4) Multiplayer is solid and the Co OP is done really well, so that'll last long after playing the SP over and over again :D/
I could go on but it'll be too long to list.
If he likes RPGs, I recommend Fallout 3, Dragon Age Origins and FInal Fantasy XIII. They're all really long games and have a lot of replayability. Get the Fallout 3 GOTY Edition or the Dragon Age Ultimate Edition, which both contains massive DLC packs that are worth the investment.
If he likes Racing Games, Gran Turismo 5 and Need for Speed Hot Pursuit are games to get this Holiday as well.
