Like any new technology, the 3D gaming landscape is murky. Different types of 3D technologies, multiple display requirements, and varying kinds of glasses make purchasing decisions difficult. On the most basic level, you're going to need a few things to get you going.

1. A 3D HDTV or 3D monitor
2. 3D glasses
3. A 3D-capable PC or console

We'll break down the guide into two distinct parts--console and PC. Going down the console route is comparatively simple. The PC route isn't terribly complicated, but it does require a little bit more thought.

If you want to learn more about 3D gaming in general, check out our Guide to 3D Gaming.

At the moment, Sony is actively pushing 3D gaming with the PlayStation 3. The console supports 3D gaming once you've installed firmware version 3.30 and higher. There are numerous games available that support 3D, both in stores and for download from PlayStation Network. Don't forget about the Blu-ray player either--it's also capable of 3D Blu-ray playback.

Microsoft's been mostly silent on the 3D-gaming front. The Xbox 360 is certainly capable of displaying 3D visuals, and Microsoft has stated that developers are free to enable 3D content for the console. However, the decision to omit HDMI outputs on early models of the console didn't help the company in terms of compatibility. 3D visuals cannot be transferred via component, composite, or S-Video cables.

Nintendo's Wii lacks an HDMI output and is, consequently, not capable of 3D gaming in the modern sense. There are a few titles that take advantage of 3D gaming via glasses with conventional red-and-blue lens filters. Outside of the glasses, you don't need any additional hardware to play the games in 3D.

There's no shortage of manufacturers rushing to fill the 3D display scene. Pretty much all the big names have models in varying sizes and price points. These three model lineups represent some of the best 3D HDTVs out on the market. They don't come particularly cheap, but then again, you won't save all that much by going with the alternatives. Panasonic's 3D HDTVs rule the roost with both excellent 2D and 3D quality and come bundled with 3D glasses. Samsung's HDTVs also provide great visual quality, but do not come bundled with glasses. The LG models feature the first THX display certification for 3D sources.

Panasonic Viera TC-PVT20/25 series - $1800 50-inch
From the CNET Review:
Superior black-level performance and excellent shadow detail; accurate primary colors in THX mode; great color saturation; effective antireflective screen; reproduces 1080p/24 cadence properly; VieraCast provides access to select Internet services and improved customization; solid 3D picture quality; includes 3D glasses.

Samsung PNC8000 series - $1650 50-inch
From the CNET Review:
Excellent black-level performance; accurate color overall; properly handles 1080p/24 sources; excellent bright-room image for a plasma; numerous picture controls and tweaks; sleek styling with inch-deep panel; superb streaming and widget content via well-integrated Apps platform; very good 3D picture quality.

LG PC950 series - $1350 50-inch
From the CNET Review:
Produces relatively deep black levels; accurate color overall; correctly handles 1080p/24 sources; solid 3D performance; plenty of streaming and interactive features; extensive picture controls; sleek styling with single-plane design and 2-inch-deep panel; Magic Wand remote works well.

You'll likely get one or two sets of glasses with the 3D HDTV you purchase, although some models don't have glasses bundled in, and you'll likely need more pairs if you have friends over. An extra set of glasses runs between $130 and $150, depending on the brand. As a general rule, don't futz around with trying to match different brands of glasses with different brands of TVs. If you have a Panasonic HDTV, get Panasonic glasses. Companies like XpanD also have universal glasses (which aren't entirely universal) in the marketplace for about the same price.

Should you own a 3D-ready HDTV, you'll need a 3D-sync device. Like the glasses, each company sells its own branded device. Expect to spend about $50 on the unit, although most come bundled with glasses.

Watch out for passive 3D glasses being sold in stores. The vast majority of 3D HDTVs require active glasses to function. Passive 3D glasses are currently used inside of movie theaters. Unless you're looking to get a personal set for use at a theater, these won't cut it for home use.

You will need HDMI cables to view 3D content. If you pick up a set of HDMI 1.4 or higher rated cables, they're also referred to as high-speed cables. Don't spend an exorbitant amount of cash on the cables; anything more than $10 is money down the drain unless you're buying superlong cables. Online retailers like Monoprice and NewEgg carry the cables at fair prices.

You might also want to pick up a few USB charging cables for those glasses. Those shouldn't run you more than $1 apiece at the aforementioned online stores.