photo: Ben Smith UK/ BY-NC-SA

There’s been a lot of buzz lately in the realm of video games -- augmented-reality games are coming to life! So what’s the big commotion? The videos below should explain it all better than this post itself can.

Invizimals

While it's yet to have an official release date, Invizimals is already becoming a household name. This camera-based video game is featured exclusively for the PSP and as of now, Sony said it will not be on the new PSPGo, at least until Sony can come up with a new camera attachment for the sleeker PSP model. A sneak preview was shown at E3 but at a secret area where it was revealed to only a few. (Ed. Note: Which might be for the best, because this story teaser trailer is pure velveeta).

Ghostwire

Similarly, Nintendo's DSi platform has its own augmented reality game called Ghostwire, from the Swedish game studio A Different Game, which is partially like Ghostbusters but instead you won’t demolish them and would be offering them some guidance.

EyePet

And if the Invizimals and Ghostwire aren't enough, no worries, I saved the best for last for you. Take a look at EyePet—another augmented-reality game that allows the user to physically interact with a virtual pet instead of using the old-fashioned controller to do so. I was in awe by the blending of the virtual and real world.