del337er,
I don't know about some of your logos. I surely ain't hatin' because your heart is definitely in it. You just need a re-attack plan. Take this AITD effort. It looks clean and smooth, but lacks any appeal or attitude. It has that "strong enough for a man but made for a woman" vibe going. That is the last thing you want for a video game unless unless it's called "Hunting fer me a Mandog."
Most logos that sport textures, color gradients and/or shading are created through the use of numerous layers and effects. The trick to making a great looking logo is to make sure it does not have that "Oh look Martha, little Jimmy used one of those layers effects again." The real trick is to use many layers with minor effects so as to build up a solid look and feel to the logo.
Take my
Gears fanfic logo for example. Making just the logo took over 100 layers, not including the leather background texture. Subtle changes, lowered opacity/fill and effects over many layers will give you the ultimate control over your effects and your work. Sure, it is time consuming, but the WOW! factor that comes after you're done cannot be measured.
If you have any questions about how to create a certain effect or texture perhaps, send me a PM. I'll be glad to help you out.