Finding the perfect birthday gift for dad can sometimes feel like navigating a challenging level in a video game. But what if the ideal present was actually a game itself? For dads who embrace their playful side and cherish quality time, especially with their kids, video games can be an exceptional and engaging gift. They offer a fantastic opportunity for “bonding time” disguised as fun, and cater to the inner child in every father.
A scene from The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom showing Princess Zelda in a thoughtful pose in front of a grand castle, symbolizing a blend of adventure and thoughtful gameplay for dads.
Among the plethora of options, Nintendo Switch stands out as a treasure trove of dad-friendly titles. The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom is a particularly noteworthy choice. In a refreshing twist, this installment puts Princess Zelda in the leading role, offering a clever and accessible adventure. Dads who are “girl dads” especially might appreciate guiding Zelda of Hyrule in her quest to save her kingdom, potentially alongside their own princesses.
The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom
This game offers a unique Zelda experience where the princess takes center stage, providing hours of engaging gameplay and problem-solving adventures, perfect for dads who enjoy strategy and story-driven games.
Buying Options:
- $15 from Best Buy
- $49 from Amazon
Action-packed gameplay from Super Mario Bros. Wonder, featuring Mario and friends amidst vibrant, whimsical transformations, ideal for dads seeking fun and collaborative gaming experiences.
For dads who prefer to jump into the action alongside family, Super Mario Bros. Wonder delivers a vibrant and wildly imaginative experience. This standout title in the iconic Mario franchise introduces “Wonder Flowers” that trigger bizarre and delightful transformations within each level. Whether pipes come to life or Mario inflates like a balloon, the unpredictable gameplay ensures endless entertainment for dads and their kids playing together.
Super Mario Bros. Wonder
A fantastically weird and wonderful entry in the Mario series, perfect for cooperative play and family fun, offering dads and kids a shared adventure full of surprises.
Buying Options:
- $60 from Best Buy
- $50 from Amazon
- $49 from Walmart
Astro Bot in action, a charming robot character navigating a colorful PlayStation world, representing a delightful and nostalgic gaming gift for dads who are PlayStation enthusiasts.
PlayStation-owning dads aren’t left out, with Astro Bot offering an exceptionally charming adventure. This title stars an adorable robot protagonist on a mission to rescue his lost friends. Experienced gamers will appreciate the nostalgic nods to PlayStation’s 30-year history cleverly woven into this single-player adventure, making it a delightful gift that blends classic gaming with modern charm.
Astro Bot
A charming PlayStation exclusive that blends classic platforming with innovative gameplay and PlayStation nostalgia, making it a perfect gift for dads who grew up with or enjoy PlayStation consoles.
Buying Options:
- $60 from Amazon
- $58 from Walmart
- Buy from PlayStation
So, this birthday, consider leveling up dad’s special day with a video game. It’s a gift that speaks to fun, family time, and perhaps a little bit of nostalgic joy. When he says he’s been working on problem-solving and hand-eye coordination with the kids, you’ll know he’s really just enjoying some quality “bonding time” – and that’s a gift that keeps on giving.
