The game industry moves at a fast clip. Case in point: 2011 isn't even in our rearview mirror yet and already everyone is buzzing with excitement about the 12 months that are ahead of us. So which video game-related stories should be on your radar? Which games should you think about pre-ordering now? You're going to find out in 3...2...1...

*The first big sports-related game in the new year is one that the Sports Gamer can't wait to play: SSX (PS3, 360, $59.99). It's due in stores on Valentine's Day (February 14). In the meantime, I'll keep my thumbs busy finishing 2003's SSX 3. Again.

*The PlayStation Vita (Sony, $249.99/$299.99) will be on everyone's mind in 2012. Sure, we're all still a little busted up over the lackluster performance of the Nintendo 3DS. Don't worry--Sony's super-powerful handheld will make everyone fell good about portable gaming again.

*Speaking of the Nintendo 3DS, look for the machine to finally find its footing in 2012. And don't be surprised if Nintendo starts hinting at a complete redesign, addressing some of the shortcomings of the original 3DS (cough, battery life, cough, cough).

*Speaking of Nintendo, what about the Wii U.? Experts are saying that we should expect a Holiday 2012 release. Look for Nintendo to start doling out the information on the Wii U. all year long, including that much-anticipated price point.

*There are also rumors that a new Xbox could be announced this year, possibly even as early as the Consumer Electronics Show in January. Personally, I think the old Xbox still has plenty of life in it, especially when coupled with recent system update and dashboard redesign.

*Don't expect a PlayStation 4 announcement this year. Sony will likely want all eyes on the Vita. The Sports Gamer thinks this is a good thing, because, like the 360, there's still a lot of life left in the old PS3 yet.

*Wii will, sadly, fade into oblivion. The only one who still will use the Wii: Your parents when they do their daily Wii Fitness.

*Finally, sports games will experience a major breakthrough in 2012. Aside from 2K's NBA series, sports games have--if I'm going to be completely honest--sort of plateaued over the last couple of years. They're great, sure, but they haven't really changed or evolved all that much. My boldest prediction for 2012: Look for something truly incredible to come along and shake up the way we play.

Happy 2012, everyone.