yeah an "x games" isn't going to get you to far.
as far as decks go, its really a question of personal preference.
if you want to take skating in the direction of learning street then you probably want to go with blank decks to start considering the amount of damage that your going to put it through. (considering there a little cheaper) From then on you should probobally just try which ever ones you think you like. (find a skateshop and see if they will let you hop on a complete) If you like the feel go with it.
personally i prefer baker and usually what element puts out.
If you want to go with vert....i dunno go with birdhouse or blind or something. You should skate street though. i dunno. haha
If you want to take it as far as just cruising around, then just go with what ever graphic suits your "punk" needs best.
Other than the blanks most decks cost the same too soooo its really a question of trying them out.
Any of these are definitely solid choices,
If it doesn't have one of these names on it its probably a lousy wall-mart board.
Element ZeroAlmost Girl Alien Workshop Enjoi Plan B
Flip Baker Foundation Mystery Toy Machine Chocolate DGK Habitat Blind Darkstar Powell Zoo York Black Label Deathwish Real Speed Demon World Industries 5Boro Armada Bummer High Crime Expedition Santa Cruz Sk8Mafia Skate Mental St. James Stereo