15 Amazing Gift Ideas for the Sci-Fi Buff in Your Life

Science fiction has infiltrated a vast array of books, movies, TV shows, and video games throughout the years, making it a challenge to determine which items are truly worth your attention when shopping for a fan of the genre. Fortunately, we're here to simplify the process with this curated list of the best gifts for sci-fi lovers in your life.

1. Close Encounters of the Third Kind 4K Blu-ray; $19

Steven Spielberg's sci-fi masterpiece about a man (Richard Dreyfuss) encountering extraterrestrial life is now available in 4K, featuring both the theatrical and director's cut.

2. Doctor Who Mad Libs; $5

Take a young Doctor Who enthusiast on an exciting, time-traveling journey with this entertaining workbook that allows them to fill in amusing words and phrases in the classic Mad Libs format.

3. Jurassic Park: The Original Topps Trading Card Series; $18

Topps trading cards have long been synonymous with iconic pop culture franchises, so it was no surprise that the company teamed up with Universal to create a card set based on Steven Spielberg's blockbuster 1993 film Jurassic Park. If you weren’t able to collect them all, you can explore the entire set in this beautifully crafted hardcover book by Abrams, which also released a similar volume focused on Topps's Star Wars cards ($25).

4.

Star Trek Socks; $22

While you might not want your loved one strolling around in a Starfleet uniform, these Next Generation socks will certainly give their feet a touch of Star Trek authority. Whether they're a fan of the command, engineering, or science division aboard the Enterprise, there's a perfect pair waiting for them.

5. Sci-Fi Book Cover Postcards; $25

One of the most captivating features of the sci-fi genre is its outlandish, and sometimes bizarre, book covers. This postcard set showcases 100 covers from the archives of publisher Penguin, including works by H.G. Wells, Aldous Huxley, J. G. Ballard, Philip K. Dick, Kurt Vonnegut, and Ray Bradbury. Perfect for collectors and those who wish to turn these postcards into creative crafts or home decor.

6. and 7. The Making of Alien and The Making of Aliens; $34-$48

For a thorough, behind-the-scenes exploration of your favorite film, look no further than J.W. Rinzler. Known for his meticulous deep dives into the original Star Wars trilogy, he’s also chronicled the creation of the first two Alien movies. These books are filled with rare images, unused concepts, original scripts, and countless insider stories—perfect for any fan.

8. The Future Is Female! 25 Classic Science Fiction Stories by Women; $18

This expansive anthology from the Library of America shines a well-deserved spotlight on some of sci-fi’s most accomplished women writers. Spanning from the pulpy stories of the 1920s and 1930s to the more mature and introspective works of the 1960s, this collection provides an essential crash course in sci-fi history. It features stories from a group of often-overlooked authors, including James Tiptree, Jr. (Alice Bradley Sheldon) and Leigh Brackett, who contributed the first draft of 1980's The Empire Strikes Back.

9. Godzilla: The Showa-Era Films; $127

Godzilla charms fans by effortlessly transitioning between deep, thought-provoking moments and over-the-top, campy fun. This stunning 15-movie Blu-ray collection from Criterion allows fans to revisit the most iconic films in the franchise, from the groundbreaking 1954 original to the more kitschy later installments like Megalon and Mechagodzilla. Included are both the U.S. and Japanese cuts of the 1963 cult classic King Kong vs. Godzilla. As with every Criterion release, the set is packed with bonus content and includes a gorgeous hardcover book featuring original artwork.

10. Moebius Library: The World of Edena; $35

Moebius, one of sci-fi comics' most influential artists, helped shape a visual style that impacted the works of George Lucas, Ridley Scott, and countless other major figures in the genre. This collection reprints Moebius’s The World of Edena stories in a beautiful hardcover edition, with vibrant colors that perfectly complement the surreal, imaginative worlds he presents to his readers.

11. Blade Runner Rick Deckard Funko Pop!; $12

Ridley Scott’s Blade Runner remains a top contender in the sci-fi genre, and this Funko Pop! figure captures Harrison Ford's portrayal of Rick Deckard in the brand's signature blocky style. If you prefer the darker, more dramatic side of the film, you can also choose the villainous (and theatrical) Roy Batty figure.

12. Metroid Dread; $53

Nintendo’s Metroid series is renowned for its tense, claustrophobic sci-fi world, and Metroid Dread cranks up that atmosphere to its maximum. As with most entries in the series, players control Samus as she explores a mysterious planet, unlocking new weapons and abilities along the way. However, this time around, Samus is relentlessly hunted by the EMMI robots—unforgiving mechanical horrors that can eliminate players in one hit. Perhaps advise your recipient to play with the lights on!

13. Dune T-Shirt; $24

Dune is back on the big screen, introducing a fresh generation to Frank Herbert’s epic sci-fi novel. Whether shopping for a newcomer or a dedicated fan, this sandworm-approved T-shirt from Redbubble is a perfect gift. With its vintage design that echoes the endless deserts of Arrakis, it’s available in a variety of colors and styles to suit any taste.

14. Planet of the Apes Puzzle; $18

This 1000-piece Planet of the Apes puzzle from Mondo and artist Laurent Durieux reimagines Mount Rushmore with a primate twist. The puzzle features the stone-carved faces of iconic apes, including Dr. Zaius, overseeing their territory as Taylor and the other astronauts make their way through the valley below.

15. The History of EC Comics; $165

EC Comics revolutionized nearly every genre during the golden age of comics, but its sci-fi stories stand out as some of its most unforgettable work. In this monumental history book from TASCHEN, readers can dive deep into EC’s legacy with author Grant Geissman, an expert on the publisher’s story. Featuring thousands of illustrations, photos, and anecdotes, it provides a comprehensive look at one of the most influential names in comic history.