While it's no longer a big deal to find a capable laptop for less than $500 these days, it's still pretty rare to see a laptop at that price with a discrete video card that can handle itself in games. Future Shop has one such laptop right now -- a refurbished Asus X53SV 15.6" Laptop w/Core i5-2430M and GeForce GT 540M 1GB for $479.99. This is available online only. Here are the specs in detail:

• Intel Core i5-2430M 2.4Ghz Processor
• Windows 7 Home Premium
• 640GB 5400RPM HD
• 6GB DDR3 RAM
• NVIDIA GeForce GT 540M 1GB
• DVDRW
• Wireless B/G/N
• 15.6" 1366x768 display

The big difference here is the GeForce GT 540M video card. It will mean that you can take many popular games (such as Diablo 3) out for a spin with more than minimal graphics settings. More graphics intensive games like first person shooters should also be playable. Have a look at NotebookCheck on the graphics card abilities.

The rest of the hardware is very respectable as well. This is the most capable gaming laptop we've seen at this price point to date. Thanks to forum member d182 for sharing this deal.