WM is hard to beat on price if they have what you want. I have been surprised at some of the low prices on some very nice TVs there recently. As far as the quality of that particular brand, I have no idea. GOOGLEFU time.
Tv will be used mainly to play video games. I run the kids out there when I need peace and quiet. I had a 60 rear projection (OLD SCHOOL) TV that just took a dump for the last time.
Kids dont appreciate a high quality TV, so big and cheap is my goal. Its a big room so I need a decent size screen.
Go for 1080. We got our 1080p sony bravia 42" a few years ago for $1200, so prices have dropped considerably since then, but i'd go with more reputable brands. Not too fond of emerson, vizio, or the like.
I'd invest in a plexi-glass cover. Those screens are fairly easy to destroy and once they're gone, replacing them usually costs as much as buying another television (airsoft BBs are great at turning your investment into next week's trash). I don't know of anyone who sells them; you'll have to make one from hardware store parts.
Wallyworld has good deals on the Vizio models. Pretty darn good sets from what I see and hear. My parents have had one for several years and love theirs.