Gifts for gamers in the US

Platform first, then everything else

Most gaming gifts work on one system. Mario Kart World needs a Switch 2, and so do the Satisfye grip, the Ryzepads and the KontrolFreek Galaxy caps. The Hyperkin guitar is for a Wii. The ModRetro M64 needs original N64 cartridges and the Chromatic needs Game Boy cartridges. If you are not sure what is under their TV, ask someone in the house.

When you cannot find out, buy something that does not care about the console. The plain KontrolFreek grips fit PlayStation, Xbox and Switch Pro sticks. The iFixit kit opens most controllers. A card game works with anyone.

What we would buy

For a family with a new Switch 2, Mario Kart World. Four people race on one console and nobody needs to be good. For a teen who streams or lives on voice chat, the Elgato Wave:3 MK.2 is the upgrade they will hear every night. For an adult with a box of N64 cartridges in the closet, the ModRetro M64 is the one gift on this list that brings something back to life.

Skip buying a specific game unless you know they do not own it. Digital games are tied to an account and cannot be returned.

Budgets and timing

Under $25: the KontrolFreek grips, the iFixit kit and most card games. From $25 to $75: new Switch 2 games, the Satisfye grip and the party games. Above $100: the Stream Deck, the Wave:3, the Keychron keyboard, the Crusher Evo and the ModRetro consoles.

Online play on Switch needs a paid Nintendo Switch Online membership, so check before buying Mario Kart for someone who wants to race friends. For a last-minute gift, the Apple gift card arrives by email. Order physical items by mid-December to be safe with holiday shipping.

Wrap it with a reason to play

Wrap an accessory with something to use it on. The Satisfye grip goes well with a new Switch 2 game. The Stream Deck is more fun with an hour of your help programming it. A card game lands better with a note saying you will play the first round. And if the person is a kid, ask a parent which games are already in the house before buying anything with a cartridge or a code.

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.