Hello all,

 I have been checking this site out really for the last year and have been reading the message board for some time and I decided it was time I get involved. I have been playing video games for most of my life (kinda hate the term gamer though) and have owned just about every system out there. I would unabashedly describe myself as a Nintendo supporter, but not necessarily a fanboy. I currently own an xbox 360, a Wii, and a DS. I haven't splurged for the PS3 yet and don't plan to yet (who am I kidding, I'll probably get it some day, it's just the way things go). I definitely don't have as much time for playing as I used to and I was looking for some input from the educated minds of this board.

Considering that my time is a premium which game should I put on my Christmas list and why? The games I'm debating between are Bioshock and Mass Effect. I don't know a whole lot about either game, but I've heard both are very solid. If anybody owns these games or has played them, give me a brief intro on what I can expect and why I should buy one or the other. Also if you could give me some idea as for time investment for each title that would be great too.

Thanks in advance, and I look forward to future debates on more pressing matters. 

get mass effect.
bioshock is a rental imo.

Depends, what are you looking for, and what are you expecting out of each?

In Bioshock, you'll get an extremely polished first person shooter that clocks in around 12 hours and offers little innovation in the gameplay department, but redeems itself with possibly the most interesting environment in gaming history with a great story that pulls you in. You'll find yourself spending a lot of time just peeking out windows to get a glimpse of your beautiful surroundings.

In Mass Effect, you'll get a slightly buggy 20-30 hour game that really plays how you want it to. Want a straight RPG? Play a biotic and run your battles through menus. Want a shooter? Go for a soldier and run 'n' gun the game. The dialogue system is absolutely stunning, as are some of the levels. The story is one of the best in video game history IMO.

You can't go wrong with either game but I would probably buy Mass Effect and give BioShock a rent. You don't want to miss either one of these games.

@BrainBoxLtd...

Really I'm just looking to get the most bang for my buck. As I said I don't know that much about either game but both seem to be up my alley. 

 If you're talking about longevity, Mass Effect would be the better pick. Generally longer and better replay value by far.

Mass effect is longer, if you like both but want more get ME. I'm totally addicted myself and the replay value is pretty high.

Length isn't really what would sway me one way or the other. I'd rather play a great 15 hour game than a boring 40 hour game (for example I hated Oblivion). I'm just looking to maximize my minimal playing time.

Mass Effect. Bioware is a fantastic developer and they have never let me down.

I don't think you can really go wrong with these two titles. Both of them are top notch.