Patch proves perfect once again.

• Position: What's New? Holiday Gift Guide - Games from Patch Products

The old reliables are ... well ... just that--old reliables. Each year, we're always sure to search out the latest line of games and puzzles from Patch Products, Inc., Beloit, Wisc. We're never disappointed.

This season, Patch has ventured into "head games" with the provocative addition of Self-Esteem ($14.99). The object is to be the first player to go from Mopesville to Self-Esteem City. Kids will learn to problem solve as they pull themselves out from under a cloud thanks to a series of positive affirmations.

In Giant Spoons ($12.99), quick hands, not a quick brain, are the pre-requisite as players engage in a frantic race to pass cards and snatch a giant spoon from the middle of the table.

Hedbanz ($15.99)--a delightful derivative of the classic "What am I?"--requires players to figure out if the cartoon on their heads is an animal, food, or household item. It includes 72 cards and six plastic headbands. Do I have wings? What noise do I make?

Now, Swap!, the swift, switchin', slappin' card game that has won a bevy or awards since its introduction last year, is available in a new version ($9.99) that features see-through cards. What a wonderfully transparent ploy.

However, if shooting dice is more your game, there's Toss Up! ($6.99), which requires a...