Playing video games is more than a hobby — it's a lifestyle, and it's even become a career path for some people like Ninja, Valkyrae, and Doja Cat. With all types of games out there, from Animal Crossing: New Horizons to Fortnite, the possibilities for immersing yourself in a virtual world are endless — Nintendo Switch, Xbox, Play Station, or even just playing games on a computer or your phone. That being said, if you're shopping for a die-hard gamer and have no idea where to start, there are a couple of things that most committed gamers would really love to unbox this holiday season.
A good set-up is key — think mechanical keyboards, XXL mousepads, a proper gaming chair (bonus if it has a built-in massager), a headset, and a high-quality mic. And when they're not gaming, they might be catching up on the latest techniques on Twitch and would love a gift card to help them save some $$$ while supporting their fave Twitch creators. Ultimately, the best gift for gamers is one that helps them optimize their video game performance as well as comfort and endurance while they're sitting for longer periods of time. Ahead, find 30 of the best gifts for gamers that'll help them get their head in the game. 🎮
1. Super Mario 3D All-Stars
This game brings together Super Mario 3D world and the 2021 mini adventure Bowser's Fury for plenty of multi-player or single player fun. The graphics are sick, and it's the perfect bundle deal for any fan who hasn't gotten to experience Super Mario 3D world yet.
2. Xbox Series S
This is one of the latest consoles from Microsoft. It comes with one controller, and boasts 4K streaming, 3D sound, WiFi capabilities, 1440p gaming resolution, and more. It's the smaller of two consoles that have been recently released, so it's easier to handle and takes up less space.
3. HDMI Splitter
If you own more than one console, you know the struggle of having to switch cords to play different games. A splitter saves you the hassle of having to do that. All you have to do is press a button and you're done.
4. Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales
PlayStation Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales Ultimate Edition - PlayStation 5
This game is exclusive to Play Station 5 and follows the story of Miles Morales, a kid from Brooklyn, NY who becomes Spider-Man. Now, he's got to balance fighting crime while in high school and supporting his mom who's running for mayor.
5. Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Even though this game came out in March 2020, it's still gaining new fans every day. Take complete control of customizing your own island and making friends with your residents. The whole game is super adorable and there's no way you can't love it.
6. Magic: the Gathering Rares Collection
Although a digital version of Magic: the Gathering dropped in 2018, there are still tons of people who play the old-fashioned way by collecting cards. Plus, if you master the OG game, then you'll definitely master the latest version.
7. Backlit Keyboard
A good mechanical keyboard is a gaming essential — this keyboard is just the right amount of click-y, you can customize the key caps and the colorful backlighting, and it looks SO cool on your gamer's desk.
8. Fuzzy Blankets
Playing games for a long time means you have to max out on comfort. A soft, fuzzy blanket can keep you warm and secure for hours of gameplay.
9. Play Station Plus Membership
Having a Play Station is that much better when you have a plus membership. It gives you access to different deals, including free games and sales. If you like to play with others, it means you can online with them, too. You can subscribe for one month, three month, or a year at a time.
10. Xbox Live Gold
For those with an Xbox, a Gold membership is your equivalent to Playstation Plus. With this membership, you can subscribe for three, six, or 12 months at a time.
11. Controller dock with game storage
Kytok Switch Games Organizer Station with Controller Charger, Charging Dock for Nintendo Switch & OLED Joycons
There's nothing worse than having all your games and equipment sprawled out across your space. This helps your Nintendo Switch station stay organized — keep games in one section while you store and charge pro controllers on the top.
12. Super Mario Bros Plant Slippers
Name something cuter (and comfier!) than these Super Mario Bros slippers. We'll wait.
13. Gaming mouse
Logitech G G502 HERO High Performance Wired Gaming Mouse
PC gamers need a mouse that can keep up with them. This one is a great mouse for the price — it's weight-adjustable to fit your specific gaming needs and preferences, and even has a thumb rest on the side that makes it perfect for extended use.
14. Headset
These headphones sit comfortably on your head for hours of gameplay thanks to the memory foam ear pads meant for extended use. Not only do they look cool, but they work with PCs, Play Stations, Xboxes, and more — and they boast a 4.5 star rating out of 114,000 Amazon reviews.
15. Gaming Keyboard with Padded Arm Rest
Logitech G715 Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
If the gamer you're shopping for is in need of a little TLC after long hours of grinding on a new game, this super cute padded arm rest is the perfect solution. Plus, the super functional keyboard is wireless for a clean look.
16. Persona 5 Royal
Even though this game came out in early 2020, it's gotten record sales in the U.S. alone for its dynamic gameplay and intricate plot. In this game, you play Joker, who explores people's deepest desires with his fellow Phantom Thieves to get rid of evil adults.
17. Fortnite Llama Loot Plush
Spruce up your gaming space with this adorable Llama Loot plush from Fortnite — a.k.a one of the biggest games ever.
18. Twitch Gift Card
Twitch subscriptions can seriously add up faster than you think. The gamer in your life will thank you for saving them some (real-life) coins.
19. Cat Mario and Cat Peach Amiibo
Amiibos are figurines that transport into the virtual world on the Wii U, Nintendo 3DS, and Nintendo Switch video game consoles. While they're super cute decor for your gaming space, they also get you sick perks and new ways to customize your characters on games like Mario Kart 8 and Kirby and the Rainbow Curse.
20. Large Mousepads
Glorious PC Gaming Race Extended G – XXL (3 mm Thick Mousepad – Non-Slip Rubber Base)
No, we aren't talking about the Ziploc-sized, regular mousepads that everyone uses. Your gamer needs an XXL version that'll sit under their keyboard and mouse with super grip to ensure that there's no slippage that'll accidentally compromise their game!
21. Snack Bowl with Compartments
Fact: gaming time = snack time. Make sure you're stocked up on all your faves and have them within arm's reach with this next-level snack bowl.
22. PlayStation Light
If you're a loyal PlayStation fan, you'll love decorating with this wall light. Each of the shapes lights up to its corresponding color on your console's controller.
23. Xbox Light
Don't worry, Team Xbox, you'll also be able to represent with this light of the console's iconic logo.
24. Portable Switch Dock
A Nintendo Switch is meant to let you game on the go, but the dock it comes with is super bulky. Save space in your bag with this mini version and set up your console on any TV.
25. Xbox Media Remote
Nargos 8Bitdo Media Remote for Xbox One, Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S (Black, Long Edition)
If you stream a lot on your Xbox, you're going to need this remote in your arsenal. It's so much easier to flip through your favorite Netflix shows with this instead of a gaming controller.
26. Blue Light Blocking Glasses
Spending long periods of time in front of screens can take a toll on your vision. These sleek glasses help protect your eyes the sleep-disrupting blue light that phones and computer screens emit, as well as helping to reduce eye strain.
27. Controller Skin with Grips
Customizing your controllers and consoles with skins makes everything that much more personal. That way you can make sure everything fits your aesthetic perfectly — take this cool AF cottagecore skin, for example.
28. Gaming Chair
A gaming chair may be considered something computer gamers would use, but anyone can enjoy this comfort. This one comes with a built-in massager (!!!) and a footrest for long days spent in front of your screen.
29. The Gaming Life Rug
Eat. Sleep. Game. Repeat. That's pretty much their life motto, so why not declare the law of the land (err, rather, the law of their bedroom) to anyone who enters?
30. LED Back Lights
This isn't exactly for gaming, but it will make your gaming space look super cool. You can pick from a bunch of different colors with a remote and change them whenever you'd like.
31. Controller Evolution Poster
Video games have come a long way over the years. This poster shows off how controller design has involved — maybe you'll even get inspired with ideas for designs to come.
32. Super Mario Bros Mushroom Light with Sound
This adorable mushroom light will brighten up any gaming experience — it functions as a night light *and* it makes the iconic "level up" sound from the video game when you switch it on.
33. Minecraft Sword
Maybe you're cosplaying! Maybe you're looking for new decor! Either way, this sword will fit well among all your other Minecraft-related merch.
34. Creeper Water Bottle
Stay hydrated with this square water bottle in the shape of a Minecraft Creeper — the coolest part is that it looks straight out of the video game. They'll be sure to get tons of compliments on this unique bottle.
35. Video Game Storage Case
Headed to a friend's place to share the fun of gaming? Pack all your games across any console in this portable storage case.
36. USB Condenser Microphone
This podcast microphone is actually a gaming essential, too. Anyone who plays video games with their friends will need a good audio set-up to maximize their experience, and gamers who want to get into streaming will need a high-quality mic to accurately record audio.
37. Funny Gamer Pillowcase
They'll never lose their essentials again, thanks to the pillowcase with special pockets for a phone, a controller, a remote, and any other necessities that could be tucked inside.
Hannah is the assistant shopping editor at Cosmopolitan, covering all things from cute apartment decor to trendy fashion finds, TikTok products that are actually worth your $$$, and the perfect gift to buy for your boyfriend's mom. She previously wrote for Seventeen and CR Fashion Book. Follow her on Instagram for hot takes on red carpet fashion and unhinged updates on the books she’s reading on the train.
