Games and gear students are sure to love

Sony's next-generation console is beginning to pull away from the competition. While its software library still could use some improvement, PlayStation 4's superior multiplatform performance, incentives within PlayStation Plus, and fantastic controller make it our go-to console of choice.

The new lighter Vita packs in a bit more battery life for gaming on the go, or for a quick session in between classes. With a very respectable library of indie games and cross-buy items with PlayStation consoles, the Vita's value has never been greater. Look out for Hohokum, which lands on Vita and PS4 on August 12.

The Nintendo 3DS is a great portable console that most other platforms can't match in terms of unique gameplay experiences. Whether you're playing in 3D or 2D, there's seemingly something for everyone. The highly anticipated Super Smash Bros. hits the platform on October 3.

The creators of Halo are back with a brand-new space adventure role-playing game. With a production and marketing budget rumored to be close to $500 million, publisher Activision is going all in with this promising new franchise. (Xbox One, Xbox 360, PS4, PS3; September 9, $60).

Featuring an optional new top-down view for crafting battle strategies, Dragon Age: Inquisition thrusts the series into a new era all while maintaining the same action and spell-casting fun of past games in the franchise. (Xbox 360, Xbox One, PS3, PS4; October 7, $60)

Shadow of Mordor was among the games with the biggest buzz at this summer's E3, so it's no surprise that we're heavily anticipating its release. The action RPG will bridge the story gap between "The Hobbit" and "The Lord of the Rings" storylines. (Xbox 360, Xbox One, PS3, PS4, PC; October 7, $60)

Borderlands fans had one universal request after playing through Borderlands 2. They wanted to go to the moon. That's just what they'll get in The Pre-Sequel, a sort-of "Borderlands 1.5," if you will. The story will tie both previous games together and explain why Jack became such a badass. (October 14, $60).