That's a big gap from 30" to 36". Perhaps you should first consider following:

1. Size of your room - will determine the size. Believe the sizes in your range would be 32" to 37"
2. How many HDMI and Component do you need? Each manufacturer is different in configuration
3. Go to a shop and see what is more pleasing to your eye. Some say Sony is better others swear by Samsung.

And please use search there are tons of topics including a big one on HDTV for console

You are not going to see much difference with 1080i vs 1080p unless you are sitting very close to the TV screen. The prices are coming down for 1080p but not sure if they are out in the market yet in Malaysia for the screen size you seek. What Hi-Fi is a good base for reference and reviews.

Samsung tends to look good on display but they tend to overcontrast so you not really getting the true colors but since you say its for games Samsung is just fine.