I've posted this here rather than in the TNF as I reckon more people will read it here.
I want to buy a PC game for Christmas for a friend of the family. He's in his 60s, is retired and is notoriously difficult to buy presents for. He rarely uses his PC, but I thought it would be good to get him a game that he could really get into and spend hours on end playing. I stopped playing computer games in about 1991 as I was getting worryingly addicted, so I have absolutely no idea what's good that he might like.
I'm looking for a game that relies on logic, intellect and/or strategy rather than quick reflexes or keyboard dexterity, so no shoot-em-ups or platform games etc. I initially thought of either a Civilisation type job, or an adventure game with its own "universe" and an engaging plot, but it doesn't have to be either of those. I don't want anything too graphically violent, and I'd ideally like a game whose worldview isn't totally bleak and nihilistic.
I might get him a couple of games, so the more suggestions the better. Ta.