Two Sweet Last-Minute Tech Deals

Got an Xbox 360 fanatic on your list who loves driving games? Get ready to be happy. Also: A free Vudu set-top box with select Sharp LCD HDTVs.

First, in Xbox 360 news, Microsoft just announced that it's dropping the price of its Wireless Racing Wheel, which originally retailed for $150—now it's just $99, and it comes bundled with a demo of Forza Motorsport 2. I tested the force-feedback-capable racing wheel when it first hit stores and came away impressed; indeed, for a realistic driving sim like Forza, it's pretty much a necessity (unless your idea of fun is spinning out at the beginning of every race).

Up next: The Vudu set-top box, which delivers more than 5,000 movies instantly over your broadband connection. I'm a fan of the Vudu—I even listed it in my "10 best gadgets of 2007" post—but I've always felt that $400 is a bit much for the device, especially given that you still have to pay $3 to $5 for each movie rental. But here's an enticing deal: Get a Sharp Aquos LCD HDTV that's 42 inches or larger, and you'll get a Vudu for free (along with $50 worth of movie credits). Not bad—just keep in mind that you must buy the set through Vudu's web site to get the free Vudu box.

Related:
Microsoft Racing Wheel Reduced to $99 [Kotaku]
VUDU box thrown in with select Sharp AQUOS LCD TVs [Engadget HD]