Gifts for gamers in Canada

Platform first

Mario Kart World runs only on a Switch 2. The Switch Lite runs original Switch games and cannot play Switch 2 games or connect to a TV. Those two gifts suit very different kids, so find out which console is in the house before choosing between them.

If you cannot find out, buy something that works anywhere. The iFixit kit opens most controllers. The Gatekeeper dice suit any tabletop group. A Board Game Bliss card lets a board gamer pick the new release they have been waiting for.

What we would buy

For a family with a Switch 2, Mario Kart World, because four people can race on one console. For a teen on voice chat every night, the Elgato Wave:3 MK.2 is a bigger step up than any game. For an adult who games at a desk all day, the Kanto Ora speakers replace tinny monitor sound and handle music too.

The Minecraft cap and pencil case are small, safe gifts for a kid or teen who loves the game. They will not excite a serious player, and that is fine for a stocking.

Budgets and timing

Under $30: the dice, the iFixit kit, the Clear 4 card game and a small gift card. From $30 to $100: Switch 2 games and the Minecraft pieces. Above $150: the Stream Deck, the Wave:3, the Crusher Evo, the Kanto speakers and the Switch Lite.

Online races need a paid Nintendo Switch Online membership. The Apple gift card arrives by email for a last-minute gift. Parcels slow down in December, so order physical gifts early in the month.

Wrap it with a reason to play

Wrap an accessory with something to use it on. The dice go well with a note offering to join their next session. The Stream Deck is more fun with an hour of your help programming it. If the gamer is a kid, ask a parent what is already on the shelf before you buy a game, because doubles are common and digital codes cannot go back.

Questions people ask

What do you get a gamer who has everything?

Skip games they might own and look at gear or experiences. A better microphone like the Elgato Wave:3 MK.2, a Stream Deck, or desk speakers improve every session. For retro fans, the ModRetro M64 plays their old N64 cartridges on a modern TV. For puzzle lovers near London, the Crystal Maze LIVE is a day out instead of another thing.

Is Mario Kart World a good gift?

Yes, for a household with a Nintendo Switch 2. It supports four-player split-screen on one console, so the whole family can play. It does not run on the original Switch, and online races need a paid Nintendo Switch Online membership. Check which console they own before you buy.

What is a good gaming gift under $20?

KontrolFreek thumb grips for console controllers, the iFixit Moray driver kit for fixing controllers, a Gatekeeper dice set for D&D players, the Orzly Switch 2 case, or a card game like Exploding Kittens, Monopoly Deal or UNO Super Mario. All of these work as stocking stuffers or Secret Santa gifts.

Should I buy a digital game or a gift card?

A digital game is a better gift when you know the console and know they do not own it. A gift card is safer when you do not. The Apple gift card suits someone who games on iPhone or iPad. For console players, a store credit for their platform lets them choose.