Christmas is the time for giving, sharing, and most importantly gaming. There are so many games and accessories out these days that it is often hard to know what a gamer would really want. There are so many types of gamers all with different interests, styles, and favorite genres.
It is also important to check what games and accessories the recipient already has. It can be embarrassing to gift a game they are already playing, or have played a lot in the past. While it may seem very daunting to those outside of gaming, it doesn’t have to be. Just make sure to buy the correct version for the recipient's preferred platform e.g. Playstation 5, X-Box One, Nintendo Switch, PC, etc. It never hurts to ask about a gamer's existing collection or their preferred consoles!
5 PS Plus or Xbox/PC Game Pass
- PS Plus is available on all Playstation Consoles via the PlayStation Store
- PS Plus Essential: $9.99 a month
- PS Plus Extra: $14.99 a month
- PS Plus Premium: $17.99 a month
- Xbox/ PC Game Pass is available for all Xbox Consoles and PCs via the Microsoft Store
- Xbox/ PC Game Pass is $9.99 a month
- Xbox/ PC Game Pass Ultimate is $14.99 a month
PS Plus and the Xbox/PC Game Pass are great options for those who know very little about their recipient’s gaming habits. It doesn’t matter what games someone likes or has already played; these subscription-based services have something for everyone.
Each service works similarly to each other on their respective console. A subscription is now required to play online on both Playstation and Xbox, but they have different tiers of service with different prices. A PC Game Pass is not required to play games online, but offers the same bonuses as the Xbox service.
All three services provide access to hundreds of fantastic video games at no extra cost. These video game libraries are full of brilliant games and has options for absolutely anyone of any age. They are constantly updated, with new major titles being added every month. Furthermore, the full game libraries can be viewed without a subscription. There may be games in there that the recipient has been wanting to play for ages, and now they can, due to this service. PS Plus, Xbox, and PC Game Pass are the perfect gifts for gamers that want to play online and try as many games as they wish.
4 Minecraft
- Minecraft is available on 3DS, Mobile, PC, PS3, PS4, Switch, Wii U, Xbox 360, and Xbox One
- Prices vary per platform and are available on their respective stores
- Minecraft Realms start at $7.99 per month
One of the all-time greats of gaming, Minecraft provides so much to people of all ages. It is a no-brainer if the recipient hasn’t played it before, or even better if they have lost access to their account. Minecraft brings the best out of people, whether it’s expressing their creativity, battling monsters, mining for treasures, or exploring the game's world. The sky is the literal limit in Minecraft.
It is also a great option for children for endless entertainment. The block-based giant of gaming can also be a great social game. Building and playing together is perfect for quality time over the festive period. It can be played on a server where players can build a world together, or on a split screen on a console.
If the recipient is already an avid Minecraft player, consider buying them a Minecraft Realm. These are official Mojang servers for Minecraft, where players have the freedom to do whatever they want. Setting up a personal server can be complex and requires some beefy hardware, so Minecraft Realms are a great option for people wanting to play together.
3 An Extra Controller For A Console
- PS4 controllers are available on Amazon
- PS5 controllers are available on Amazon
- Xbox Core controllers are available on Amazon
- Xbox Elite Wireless controllers are available on Amazon
- Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons are available on Amazon
Unfortunately, gaming is becoming less of a social occasion. Many major titles are opting for single-player modes or online modes with others. However, many will agree that playing on the same console can bring the most joy out of gaming. Most of the time, consoles are sold with only one controller. Buying another controller can really promote the social side of gaming. Just make sure it is for the right console — no Xbox player wants to receive a Playstation controller or vice versa.
This can also be a great option for parents. Adults playing video games with their children can be a great way to bond if they love gaming. Children may try to hide their gaming habits from their parents, but it can be turned into a positive bonding experience with an extra controller.
2 FIFA 23
- FIFA 23 is available on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series S|X, Nintendo Switch, and PC.
- FIFA 23 is available on Amazon for a range of consoles
Following on from the social side of gaming, look no further than FIFA 23. It promotes social gaming both online and in person. FIFA has been a staple of sports gaming for decades, and FIFA 23 is one of the best games EA Sports has made in a long time. FIFA 23 is absolutely essential for all football lovers and gamers.
It has a plethora of game modes, including Kick Off, Volta, Career Mode, and of course Ultimate Team. Whether someone wants to manage a club to glory in Career Mode or build a fantastic team and play against the best in Ultimate Team, FIFA 23 has something for everyone.
1 Elden Ring
- Elden Ring is available now on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
- Elden Ring is available on Amazon for all platforms
When looking for gifts for gamers, it is hard to look past the game of the year, Elden Ring. The newest game in the Dark Souls universe was highly anticipated for years before its release. It is fair to say it exceeded the already high expectations. Elden Ring is an absolute masterpiece from start to finish, with intense boss battles, gorgeous visuals, and a gritty combat system.
However, Elden Ring is not for the faint-hearted. For those who aren’t familiar with the Dark Souls games, they are among the hardest games in history. They are punishing, time-consuming, and can be very frustrating. Elden Ring is for the hardcore gamers who love dark lore and a real challenge in their games. Avoid giving this to children.