Video games have been one of the bright spots for retailers during this recession. Even at 40 bucks a pop, they’re relatively cheap entertainment if they lead to several nights spent at home in front of the television instead of out on the town.

Today, in a sign that gamers are still spending, Target announced a video game reservation program for popular titles.

Gamers can pay $1 for a “collectible reservation card.” When they bring the card back within seven days of the game’s release date, they get a $5 gift card for a future purchase.

The first titles included in the program will be Punch Out!!, EA Sports Active, Ghostbusters, Indiana Jones and the Staff of Kings and UFC 2009 Undisputed.