So, what are some good recent games?

[Roland]

Try the demos. ;)

I highly recommend Battlefield: 1942, but if FPS ain't your thing, you're not gonna find much in it. ;) It's a solid game, with excellent multiplayer. A step in the right direction away from the classic "Deathmatch" of UT / Q3, it boasts some VERY interesting gameplay. I picked it up, and I have hardly been able to put it down since.

What's the Civ-like game where you're a medeival king and you have to manage heros, and actually cajole them into doing stuff instead of just ordering them around?  That seemed interesting.

I think you're referring to Majesty. A slightly older game, for certain (not as old as Diablo, I don't think, but close), but not a bad one. Worth the $10 or $15 it would cost ya. ;) As for Divine Divinity, I tried the Demo, but loathed it. I don't know. I'd truly recommend getting the demo before trying that one, as it is more or less just another Diablo clone. Without multiplayer. :P

What else can I recommend? I honestly don't know. My advice? Walk into your local Gamestop and/or Electronics Boutique and ask the clerks. Very often you can get some good advice.

And of course, pre-order The Frozen Throne! ;) It'll be well worth your money. ;)