Finding the perfect gift can feel like navigating a complex RPG, but for the gamer in your life, it doesn’t have to be game over before you even start. Shopping for someone passionate about video games opens up a vast inventory of awesome possibilities. From essential accessories to immersive experiences, the world of gaming gifts is packed with items that are sure to score major points. Forget about just grabbing another game (unless you know exactly which title is on their wishlist!), and dive into our curated selection of Cool Gifts For Gamers that go beyond the usual suspects.
The experts at IGN have assembled a party of top-tier recommendations to guide you through the quest for the ultimate gamer gift. Whether your recipient pledges allegiance to Nintendo, PlayStation, Xbox, PC gaming, or simply embraces the gaming lifestyle, we’ve compiled a list of the absolute best and coolest gifts to consider this year. Get ready to become a gift-giving MVP!
Top-Tier Gaming Gifts for Every Player
Vault 33 Backpack for Fallout Fans
Fallout Lucy’s Vault 33 Backpack: Adventure-Ready Gear
Fresh from the hit Amazon Fallout TV series, the Fallout Lucy’s Vault 33 Backpack is not just a replica; it’s a functional piece of gear for any gamer who loves adventure, both virtual and real. Featuring a cozy yellow fleece blanket for those wasteland chills, a padded 16-inch laptop compartment for gaming on the go, and nine additional pockets, this backpack is designed to keep their essentials safe from any post-apocalyptic scenario or everyday commute.
For gifts that cater to a wide range of fandoms, the IGN Store is your treasure trove. Capitalizing on the buzz around Amazon Prime’s Fallout series, you can find a variety of themed merchandise. Beyond the Vault 33 backpack, consider the Vault 33 hoodie for cozy gaming sessions, or the lithograph poster collection to decorate their gaming den with iconic imagery from the Fallout universe. But the IGN store’s loot doesn’t stop there; you can discover gaming-inspired cookbooks to fuel their late-night raids, vinyl record collections to set the mood, collectible figurines to adorn their shelves, and a whole lot more cool gifts for gamers.
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Metaphor ReFantazio Game AdMetaphor: ReFantazio: The Must-Have RPG
For the gamer who appreciates a deep dive into immersive worlds, Metaphor: ReFantazio is a critically acclaimed RPG brought to you by the creators of Persona 3, 4, and 5. Hailed for its captivating gameplay, stunning visuals, immersive soundtrack, and rich story with compelling characters, this title is available on Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC, PS5, PS4, and Steam. It’s the perfect gift to transport them to another realm.
Even More Awesome Gaming Gift Ideas
Looking for even more inspiration? Scroll through our hand-picked selection of top video game gifts that might have escaped your radar.
Vault 33 Hoodie for Gaming Comfort
Fallout Vault 33 Hoodie: Cozy Gamer Apparel
Fallout Lithograph Poster Collection for Game Room Decor
Fallout Lithograph Poster Collection: Art for the Wasteland Wanderer
Brotherhood of Steel Pinfinity Box Set Collectible Pins
Fallout Brotherhood of Steel Pinfinity Box Set: Show Off Fandom
Mass Effect Normandy SR-2 Ship Replica for Sci-Fi Fans
Mass Effect Normandy SR-2 Ship Replica: A Piece of Spacefaring History
World of Warcraft 20th Anniversary Pin Collectible Item
World of Warcraft 20th Anniversary Pin: Celebrate Gaming Milestones
The Mandalorian Stainless Steel Water Bottle for Star Wars Fans
Star Wars: The Mandalorian Stainless Steel Bottle: Stay Hydrated, Bounty Hunter Style
Stardew Valley Cookbook for Cozy Game Fans
The Official Stardew Valley Cookbook: Recipes from the Valley
Skyrim Vinyl Collection for Game Music Lovers
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Ultimate Edition Vinyl Collection: Epic Soundtrack on Wax
The Witcher 3 Geralt Figure Collectible Statue
The Witcher 3 Geralt Heart of Stone Figure: A Detailed Collectible
Best Gifts for Nintendo Switch Gamers
Shopping for a Nintendo enthusiast is like entering a world of iconic characters and beloved franchises. Mario, The Legend of Zelda, and Donkey Kong have been captivating gamers for decades, making Nintendo gifts instantly recognizable and appreciated. IGN Technical Producer Amir Rakib gives a shout-out to the 8Bitdo Ultimate Bluetooth Controller, highlighting its superior comfort for marathon gaming sessions compared to standard Joy-Cons. He also praises the advanced Hall Effect sensor joysticks, a game-changer for eliminating dreaded stick drift.
8Bitdo Ultimate Bluetooth Controller for Nintendo Switch
8bitdo Ultimate Bluetooth Controller: Pro-Level Nintendo Gameplay
The 8bitdo Ultimate Controller is a versatile gift that works seamlessly with Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, and PC via Bluetooth or a low-latency 2.4GHz wireless connection. It’s packed with features that enhance gameplay, including customizable back buttons for personalized controls, built-in rumble for immersive feedback, and a convenient charging dock to keep them powered up and ready to play.
Whether they’re eagerly anticipating a new release like Super Mario Party Jamboree or would love to showcase their fandom with a Nintendo-themed collectible like the LEGO Super Mario World set, we’ve compiled a treasure chest of cool gift ideas for Nintendo gamers.
Super Mario Party Jamboree Game for Nintendo Switch
Nintendo Super Mario Party Jamboree: Party Game Fun for Everyone
LEGO Super Mario World Mario and Yoshi Building Set
LEGO Super Mario World: Mario & Yoshi: Build and Display
Genki Covert Dock Mini for Nintendo Switch Travel
Genki Covert Dock Mini: Portable Nintendo Switch Docking
Nintendo Switch Deluxe Travel Case
Nintendo Game Traveler Deluxe Case: Protection on the Go
Nintendo eShop Gift Card for Digital Games
Nintendo eShop Gift Card: The Gift of Choice
SanDisk 512GB MicroSD Card for Nintendo Switch Storage
SanDisk 512GB microSDXC Card: Expand Their Game Library
Top PlayStation Gifts for Immersive Gaming
PlayStation fans, especially those gaming on the powerful PS5, have a treasure trove of fantastic games and accessories to choose from. IGN Commerce Manager Eric Song recommends the PlayStation DualSense Controller, particularly the eye-catching Chroma Collection. These controllers boast iridescent colors that shift with every angle, adding a touch of personal style, especially for gamers with RGB setups.
PlayStation 5 DualSense Chroma Controller
PlayStation DualSense Controller – Chroma Collection: Expressive and Immersive Control
The PlayStation DualSense controller is more than just a way to play; it’s an extension of the gaming experience. Available in a spectrum of colors to match any personality, it features Adaptive Triggers and Haptic Feedback, technologies that draw players deeper into the game world through tactile sensations and dynamic resistance.
If a controller isn’t quite right, consider a premium gaming headset for crystal-clear audio, the highly anticipated Black Myth: Wukong game, or explore our other top recommendations for PlayStation gamers.
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7 Wireless Gaming Headset
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7 Wireless Headset: Premium PlayStation Audio
Black Myth Wukong Game for PlayStation
Black Myth Wukong: Adventure Awaits on PS5
DualSense Wireless Charging Station for PlayStation 5
PlayStation DualSense Wireless Charging Station: Keep Controllers Ready
Samsung 980 Pro 2TB SSD for PS5 Storage Upgrade
Samsung 980 Pro 2TB SSD (with Heatsink): Expand PS5 Storage
The Last of Us Vinyl Collection for PlayStation Music
The Last of Us 10th Anniversary Vinyl Collection: Haunting Soundtrack
Yamazaki Home Tower Console Rack for Gaming Setup
Yamazaki Home Tower Console Rack: Organize Their Gaming Space
PlayStation Gift Card for PSN Purchases
PlayStation Gift Card: The Freedom to Choose
Best Xbox Gifts for the Ultimate Gaming Experience
For Xbox gamers, IGN Executive Editor Miranda Sanchez recommends the striking Special Edition Ghost Cipher Xbox Wireless Controller. Miranda considers it one of the most visually impressive special edition controllers Xbox has ever released, praising its versatility for use across the Xbox ecosystem and beyond, including Windows devices.
Xbox Wireless Controller Ghost Cipher Special Edition
Xbox Wireless Controller – Ghost Cipher Special Edition: Stylish and Versatile
The Ghost Cipher Special Edition Xbox Controller stands out with its transparent clear design, revealing a silver interior and metallic components. It’s not just about looks; this controller delivers seamless performance across Xbox consoles and Windows PCs, making it a versatile choice for any gamer.
Other standout gift ideas for Xbox gamers include the highly anticipated Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, a quality headset for immersive online multiplayer sessions, and the ever-valuable Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription – the gift that keeps on giving access to a vast library of games. And when in doubt, Xbox gift cards are always a winning option.
SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds for Xbox Mobile Gaming
SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds: Portable Xbox Audio
Call of Duty Black Ops 6 for Xbox
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6: The Next Blockbuster Shooter
PowerA Fusion Pro Wireless Controller for Xbox
PowerA Fusion Pro Wireless Controller: Customizable Xbox Control
Turtle Beach Stealth 500 Wireless Headset for Xbox
Turtle Beach Stealth 500 Wireless Headset: Immersive Xbox Audio
Master Chief Controller Stand for Xbox Fans
Exquisite Gaming Master Chief Controller Stand: Halo Style
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Subscription Gift
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate: Endless Gaming Entertainment
Microsoft Xbox Gift Card for Digital Purchases
Microsoft Xbox Gift Card: Give the Gift of Gaming Choice
Top Gifts for PC Gamers: Elevate Their Setup
If you’re on the hunt for the perfect gift for a PC gamer this holiday season, upgrading their peripherals is a surefire win. While mouse and keyboard reign supreme for many PC games, having a quality controller is invaluable for those moments when they want to lean back and relax. Our reviewer previously tested the Scuf Instinct Pro controller and still considers it a top-tier choice. Its comfortable ergonomics, non-slip textured grip, and highly responsive adjustable triggers make it a standout controller for PC gaming.
Scuf Instinct Pro Controller for PC Gaming
Scuf Instinct Pro Controller: Professional PC Gaming Control
This pro-grade controller is engineered for performance and customization. It features four mappable rear buttons for personalized layouts, a comfortable and secure grip for extended play, interchangeable thumbsticks to suit different game genres, and instant triggers for lightning-fast response times in competitive games.
Other excellent gift ideas for PC gamers include a space-saving small form factor mechanical keyboard for enhanced typing and gaming, a lightweight gaming mouse for precision and speed, high-fidelity headphones for immersive audio, or streaming gear for those aspiring to share their gameplay with the world.
Logitech G Pro Mechanical Keyboard for Compact Gaming
Logitech G Pro Mechanical Keyboard: Compact Performance
Logitech G703 Wireless Gaming Mouse Lightweight Design
Logitech G703 Gaming Mouse: Lightweight and Responsive
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless Gaming Headset Premium Audio
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless Headphones: High-Fidelity PC Audio
Corsair MM700 RGB Extended Mousepad Gaming Setup
Corsair MM700 RGB Extended Mousepad: Illuminate Their Desk
Elgato Stream Deck XL for Content Creation
Elgato Stream Deck XL: Streamlining Content Creation
Elgato Key Light for Streaming Lighting
Elgato Key Light: Professional Streaming Lighting
Elevation Lab The Anchor Controller Holder Desk Mount
Elevation Lab The Anchor Controller Holder: Desk Organization for Gamers
If you’ve explored all these options and still find yourself unsure, a gift card is always a reliable choice. Let them decide exactly what they need or want, ensuring they get a gift they’ll truly appreciate. And while you’re shopping for others, or even treating yourself, keep an eye out for deals on gaming chairs (like the GTRacing model pictured below), gaming desks, and other essential accessories to complete any gaming setup.
Continue Your Quest for the Perfect Gift with More Gaming Guides:
Matthew Adler is a Commerce, Features, Guides, News, Previews, and Reviews writer for IGN.
