Soon, many folks will unwrap new video games and systems – among the most-requested items on gift lists, according to many surveys. But what do you do when that initial rush wears off?

There are always more ways to play online. Here are some essential Web sites to help avid gamers get the most out of their favorite pastime.

GameFAQs: www.gamefaqs.com

Use it to … Find cheats, FAQs and walk-throughs when you get stuck in a game.

Be sure to … Check out tips for classic games going back a few decades.

Also try … Nothing else; stick with GameFAQs.

Half.com: video-games.half. ebay.com

Use it to … Buy used games, often cheaply, at fixed prices.

Be sure to … Read sellers’ feedback ratings before ordering.

Also try … Used section at EB Games (www.ebgames.com); be sure to check out specials.

Metacritic: www.metacritic.com/games

Use it to … Get consensus opinions of the latest games from published and online reviews.

Be sure to … Compare users’ ratings to get the big picture.

Also try … Collected amateur reviews at All-Review (www.all-reviews.com/ videogames.htm).

GameFly: www.gamefly.com

Use it to … Rent games online and get them by mail, just like Netflix.

Be sure to … Try the free 10-day trial for new subscribers.

Also try … Similar service from Gplay (www.gplay.com).