Gifts for Gamers
Gamers usually know exactly what they play on, so the safest gifts work with the system they already have. Controllers and headsets are always useful.
How to pick
- Check which console they own before buying a controller or game.
- A second controller is great for gamers who play with friends or siblings.
- Board games are a fun gift for gamers who also like playing at the table.
12 gift ideas
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Mario Kart 8 Deluxe for Nintendo Switch
The racing game the whole family can play together, for ages 6 and up.
- Best for
- Families and friends with a Nintendo Switch
- Skip if
- They don't have a Switch
Typical price: $50 to $100
Check price on Amazon for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe for Nintendo Switch (opens in a new tab) -
UNO Card Game
The classic family card game for 2 to 10 players. Cheap, quick and always a hit.
- Best for
- Families and friends who want a quick game anyone can learn
- Skip if
- They already own a deck, as most families do
Typical price: Under $25
Check price on Amazon for UNO Card Game (opens in a new tab) -
Rubik's Cube
The original 3x3 puzzle that keeps hands busy and minds working.
- Best for
- Puzzle lovers who like a challenge
- Skip if
- They get frustrated easily
Typical price: Under $25
Check price on Amazon for Rubik's Cube (opens in a new tab) -
Exploding Kittens Card Game
A fast, silly card game that's easy to learn and loud to play.
- Best for
- Families and friends who like silly, fast card games
- Skip if
- They prefer longer strategy games
Typical price: Under $25
Check price on Amazon for Exploding Kittens Card Game (opens in a new tab) -
Ticket to Ride Board Game
Collect train cards and claim routes across the country in this family favorite.
- Best for
- Families who want a strategy game that's easy to learn
- Skip if
- They want a quick game, since a round takes about an hour
Typical price: $25 to $50
Check price on Amazon for Ticket to Ride Board Game (opens in a new tab) -
Codenames
A team word-guessing game that's quick to set up and great for groups.
- Best for
- Parties and groups of four or more
- Skip if
- They usually play with just two people
Typical price: Under $25
Check price on Amazon for Codenames (opens in a new tab) -
Xbox Wireless Controller
The official controller for Xbox and PC, with textured grips.
- Best for
- Xbox and PC gamers
- Skip if
- They play on PlayStation or Switch
Typical price: $50 to $100
Check price on Amazon for Xbox Wireless Controller (opens in a new tab) -
PlayStation 5 DualSense Controller
Sony's controller with haptic feedback and adaptive triggers.
- Best for
- PlayStation 5 gamers who need a second controller
- Skip if
- They play on Xbox or Switch
Typical price: $50 to $100
Check price on Amazon for PlayStation 5 DualSense Controller (opens in a new tab) -
HyperX Cloud II Gaming Headset
A comfortable gaming headset with clear sound and a detachable mic.
- Best for
- Gamers who chat with friends while they play
- Skip if
- They want wireless, since this headset plugs in
Typical price: $50 to $100
Check price on Amazon for HyperX Cloud II Gaming Headset (opens in a new tab) -
CATAN Board Game
The trading and building strategy game families play for years.
- Best for
- Game nights with three or four players who like strategy
- Skip if
- They usually play with two, or want a short game
Typical price: $25 to $50
Check price on Amazon for CATAN Board Game (opens in a new tab) -
Scrabble Classic Board Game
The crossword game for word lovers of every age.
- Best for
- Word lovers and family game night
- Skip if
- They already own a set
Typical price: Under $25
Check price on Amazon for Scrabble Classic Board Game (opens in a new tab) -
Super Mario Party Jamboree
Board-game-style party fun for up to four players on Nintendo Switch.
- Best for
- Switch owners who host family game nights
- Skip if
- They don't have a Nintendo Switch
Typical price: $50 to $100
Check price on Amazon for Super Mario Party Jamboree (opens in a new tab)