The game is playable in both 3D and non-3D on the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Wii and Windows PC. There is a special version for the Nintendo DS developed by n-Space. Activision is touting the 3D version of the game as “delivering true depth of field and an unprecedented level of immersion.” To play in 3D requires either a 3D-ready HDTV or a 3D PC which delivers the enhanced game with help from active shutter 3D glasses. For more information visit: www.callofduty.com/blackops.

For those who feel the need for variety in their violent play, Electronic Arts has posted registration for a closed beta at battlefield.play4free.com. The game promises photo-real characters, environments, weapons and maps used in signature Battlefield vehicular warfare, sandbox game play and intense 32-player online battles. EA claims the game will compete against top console titles. The game goes live in spring 2011, but the closed beta launches November 30.

Moving on to gaming news that’s a little less violent, it’s been announced that the EA SPORTS FIFA football franchise has surpassed 100 million units lifetime sales. The best-selling sports videogame franchise in the world, now in its 18th year, sold a record-breaking 2.6 million copies in the first five days after launching FIFA 11 to become the fastest selling sports videogame of all time. One of the franchise’s most popular online modes — FIFA 11 Ultimate Team — is available for the first time ever for free. FIFA 11 Ultimate Team can be downloaded through the main menu in FIFA 11 with one click on any connected PlayStation3 or Xbox 360.

Finally, let’s mention that Nintendo held a huge party on Sunday in New York at its flagship store there for the Super Mario Bros video game franchise, which turned 25 this week. The franchise has sold 240 million units worldwide. In a special release for the occasion, Nintendo is making available a Red Wii console, which is sold as a bundle with a Red Wii Remote Plus controller, Red Nunchuk controller, new Super Mario Bros. Wii game disc and a Wii Sports game disc. In the Kingdom, fans can find the red Wii at Tokyo Games.