Buzz
Do you share a space with someone who’s exactly like this?
Nickelodeon / Via giphy.com
Ugh, that’s me. And I’m sure he’d love nothing more than to get a bunch of gaming gifts this holiday season.
If you’re in my shoes, brace yourself for a deep dive into a gamer’s mind as you search for the perfect last-minute surprises.
1. A Nintendo Switch, allowing gamers to socialize as much (or as little) as they prefer from the comfort of their living room.
2. Speaking of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, this game is a must-have for any '90s kid who still craves epic battles with friends in hand-to-hand combat.
3. A carrying case, because if you’re already gifting a Switch and games to your best friend, you might as well ensure they’re safely protected.
4. A set of Triforce string lights perfect for holiday decorations or as a permanent touch to any gamer's room all year long.
ThinkGeek
You’ve probably seen bulb and string lights shaped like pizza or flamingos, but none come close to the legendary Triforce lights inspired by The Legend of Zelda. Not only are they incredibly cool, but they set the perfect mood for gaming.
Available at ThinkGeek for $24.99.
5. A poster capturing the phrase every Fortnite player probably says at least 20 times during a single gaming session.
Etsy
There have been countless times I've overheard my husband saying, "Where we landing?!" thinking he was talking to me, only to realize he was addressing his friends on Fortnite. He, and any Fortnite enthusiast, would absolutely love receiving this poster for their wall.
Glowing review: "Wow. The print quality is outstanding. It arrived well-packaged, even a day earlier than I thought. I framed it in 'frameless' glass and it looks amazing. Any Fortnite fan will adore the Llama! Thanks." —annapolprior
Available at FineArtUSA on Etsy for $14.99+ (offered in nine different sizes).
6. An exciting game that proves you're never too old (or too young) to take on the role of a Pokémon trainer.
7.
A pair of Kingdom Hearts pajama pants for your gamer friend who has been eagerly awaiting the latest installment of the game.
BoxLunch
Ah, the memories. I still remember playing the first game on my PlayStation 2, forcing my siblings to watch me conquer challenge after challenge while discovering iconic Disney characters along the way. Now, gamers like me can relax in cozy pants inspired by our favorite game! What a time to be alive.
Available at BoxLunch for $17.43 (sizes XS-XXL).
8. An HDMI splitter, so they don't have to deal with tangled cables when switching between their PS4 or Xbox.
9. A Togepi cross-body bag that will accompany your gamer friend everywhere, just like Misty’s in the game.
ThinkGeek
Every time I spot this bag, I just want to squeal — it’s that adorable! The lucky recipient of this charming accessory, complete with an embroidered design and a smiling face, will love carrying Togepi around all the time.
Available from ThinkGeek for $38.99.
10. A game controller bath bomb that will take your loved one’s bath experience to a whole new level.
Etsy
Ready, Player One? You’re about to gift the ultimate bathing experience thanks to this cute controller! Made with ingredients like baking soda (for that fizz!), sunflower oil, avocado oil, and fragrance oils, it’ll create a relaxing bath that they’ll enjoy almost as much as beating you in Mario Kart.
Available from iBeautyGifts on Etsy for $4.50.
11. A coffee table book about the history of Hyrule, because any Zelda fan in your life would gladly spend all their rupees to own it.
12. A retro Nintendo 64 soap cartridge that doesn’t need any blowing to work properly.
Firebox
Ah, the good old days! These soaps would make an amusing stocking stuffer for any gamer who remembers the struggle of using these old-school cartridges. Bonus: they’re scented with "energy citrus"!
Promising review: "The cartridges looked awesome! My friend thought they were real N64 games! I’m not sure how well they hold up since he refuses to use them." —Casey
Available from Firebox for $9.99 each (in four different styles).
13. A Minecraft torch USB charger so your gaming-obsessed friend will have an endless power supply.
ThinkGeek
If you’re unfamiliar, redstone torches in Minecraft are known for being powerful energy sources. And you know who will definitely appreciate that? The gamer in your life. Gift them this cool charger combo for the holidays — it’s guaranteed to ~brighten~ their day.
Available from ThinkGeek for $7.99.
14. A gaming mouse that will give your friend such an edge over their competition, they’ll be shouting, "TAKE THAT, SUCKAAAS" even in their sleep.
An Oculus Go headset that will transport any passionate gamer into a virtual world — their gaming sessions will never be the same again.
An Overwatch duffel bag that will announce to everyone at the gym that your gamer friend means business (though convincing them to put down their controller for a workout may take some effort).
Is your friend equally passionate about Overwatch and fitness? This gift is perfect! Available at BoxLunch for $31.92.
A Zelda enamel pin — the perfect accessory and stocking stuffer for any fan of the iconic game.
Fans of the game will immediately recognize the phrase 'You've met with a terrible fate, haven't you?' on this pink pin. Featuring the beloved Happy Mask Salesman from Zelda, it’s bound to start conversations when your giftee adds it to their bag or jacket. Get it from PinLemonade on Etsy for $10.
18. A super comfortable gaming chair that allows your best friend to spend hours on end ruining their character's life in The Sims without any back pain.
19. A Snorlax beanbag chair, the perfect piece for your Pokémon-loving friend who could use a bit of relaxation.
ThinkGeek
Whether your friend enjoys taking long naps in this or uses it as a comfy video game seat, this Snorlax beanbag chair is bound to be a hit. *Yawn* I'm getting sleepy just thinking about it.
You can grab it from ThinkGeek for $149.99.
20. A funny 'blow me' cartridge pin that will have any gamer laughing and proudly adding it to their jean jacket.
Etsy
If you grew up in the '90s, you probably remember the struggles with Nintendo 64 cartridges. It feels like just yesterday when my game wouldn't load, so I had to blow the dust out of the bottom to get Donkey Kong up and running. Good times! Who wouldn't want to relive that moment with this amusing pin?
Get it from FanFitGaming on Etsy for $9.99.
21. A Fallout throw blanket to keep your friend warm and cozy while they strategize their survival in a post-apocalyptic virtual world.
BoxLunch
Who doesn't love a good throw blanket? My husband might just sit in his computer chair with one wrapped around him like a cape (hopefully, he doesn't read this). If your friend is anything like him, they’ll appreciate this addition to their gaming setup.
Get it from BoxLunch for $20.93.
22. A 1,000-piece video game-themed puzzle that will give your significant other a perfect excuse to take a break from gaming and spend some quality time with you.
23. A Fallout toothbrush holder because even the most dedicated gamers should hit pause to take care of their dental hygiene.
ThinkGeek
Just when you thought gaming accessories were only for screens, this Fallout toothbrush holder breaks the mold! Let your loved one honor their favorite game with this quirky bathroom accessory.
Get it from ThinkGeek for $14.99.
24. A set of Mario Kart pins that will make your recipient's heart race as if they just crossed the finish line first on Rainbow Road.
25. A delicate Triforce ring, perfect for you to say, 'It's dangerous to go alone! Take this!' when gifting it to your Zelda-obsessed friend.
Etsy
The Legend of Zelda is an incredible game — and this ring is just as beautiful! A perfect choice for anyone wanting to subtly flaunt their love for Link and his quest every day.
Get it from BlankByBlank on Etsy for $26.06+ (available in sizes 6-8 and in gold or steel).
26. A sleek gaming keyboard that's ultra-slim and comes with a fun rainbow backlight, guaranteed to make any gamer say, 'Ooooh!'
27. A Street Fighter keychain for that family member who’s been gaming hard since the '80s.
BoxLunch
Everyone has their favorite Street Fighter character! Mine is Chun-li (she's a total badass), but maybe your gaming buddy is all about Vega or Ken. Grab a bunch of these blind boxes for you and your friends this holiday season to try and collect the full squad!
Get them from BoxLunch for $4.83 each.
28. A witty T-shirt that’ll get any Animal Crossing fan excited to spend all their bells at Nook's.
Etsy
Anyone who’s played Animal Crossing knows that Tom Nook is the most important character in the game. He runs the town shop, meaning he controls ALL YOUR SUCCESS. Help your gamer friend show some love for his greatness with this tee.
Get it from BootsTees on Etsy for $24+ (available in regular and V-neck unisex sizes XS-5XL, women’s sizes S-3XL, and kids’ sizes S-L, and in black and navy).
29. An Overwatch beanie, so your friend can show their love for the game all winter long.
ThinkGeek
Whether they’re huddled up at their computer desk or stepping out into the world for snacks before an Overwatch gaming session, this beanie will keep them cozy and stylish.
Get it from ThinkGeek for $8.99.
30. A Spider-Man PS4 bundle that will likely bring the gamer in your home to tears of joy.
31. A Super Mario mushroom lamp to bring that extra boost to anyone’s gaming space.
Firebox
Looking for ambient lighting for your friend's gaming room? This mushroom lamp is exactly what you need! Just press its head to light it up, and it even includes the iconic "mushroom power-up" sound effect from the game. It's irresistibly cute!
Promising review: "I can’t get over how much joy this little light brings to me. Well worth a purchase!!" — Megan
Get it from Firebox for $18.99.
32. A Cana Kit Raspberry Pi, so the nerdiest (and perhaps the smartest) of your gaming friends can build their very own mini computer.
33. A handmade ceramic Bulbasaur planter that’s not only adorable but also guaranteed not to ~succ~.
Etsy
Whether your friend chose Bulbasaur as their starter or went with Squirtle or Charmander, any true fan of the game (and the show) will surely fall in love with this adorable planter.
Promising review: "I've been wanting one of these for so long! Don’t hesitate — it’s absolutely worth it for that special Pokémon trainer in your life. I can't wait to place this under the Christmas tree." — Eleanore
Get it from SucculentMonsters on Etsy for $31.20+ (available in two sizes and four colors).
34. A Kingdom Hearts dad hat to subtly show off your loved one's favorite Disney video game.
BoxLunch
Featuring iconic keyblades from the game, this dad hat is perfect for casual wear. Your friend will love using it on their next bad hair day — it’ll hide their unruly hair while showing off their Kingdom Hearts fandom. Stylish and functional!
Get it from BoxLunch for $13.23.
35. A pair of Pacman earrings that will be cherished by anyone who loves retro video games.
micpohling / Etsy
These silver-plated Pacman and Blinky earrings are the perfect stocking stuffer for the classic gaming lover in your life. They are delicate, versatile enough for any outfit, and pay tribute to one of the greatest video games of all time. What’s not to love?
Get them from micpohling on Etsy for $2.80.
36. A gaming headset to help your beloved partner block out distractions and concentrate on the ultimate goal — becoming a Fortnite champion.
37. A Zelda-inspired poncho that lets you express your love for the game while keeping things stylish.
ThinkGeek - One of my friends owns several variations of this poncho and can't get enough of it. It's elegant enough to wear to work, yet cozy enough to make her feel like she's wrapped in a Zelda blanket all day. Get it from ThinkGeek for $47.99.
38. A Nintendo-themed Monopoly board game, so their game night doesn’t have to rely on screens.
39. A plumbob pin that will make any fan of the classic Sims game shout in excitement in Simlish.
Etsy - The Sims has always been my all-time favorite video game. I've played it on many different platforms, but nothing compares to the times when my best friend and I would sit in front of my old, bulky computer and play for hours (mainly locking our Sims in rooms and setting them on fire, but I digress). This pin is the perfect tribute to that memory, and you can get it in either glow-in-the-dark or glitter styles! Get it from ShopOnionKnight on Etsy for $7.50.
40. A copy of Ready Player One by Ernest Cline, for the person who loves reading almost as much as they love video games.
41. A Crash Bandicoot Funko Pop, bringing your fellow '90s gamer back to their childhood every time they see it.
BoxLunch - Remember this character? His name is Aku Aku, and he’s been in my dreams since 1996. Get it from BoxLunch for $10.90.
42. A set of Nintendo controller cufflinks, so any gamer can feel right at home, even at the most sophisticated events.
Etsy - These fashionable cufflinks would be an ideal gift for any gamer celebrating a special event in 2019 (wedding? prom?). Add a bit of classic Nintendo style to their ensemble. Get them from ElegantLocketShop on Etsy for $12.99+ (also available with a matching tie clip).
43. A copy of God of War for PlayStation 4, since it claimed Game of the Year, and any avid gamer will be eager to experience it themselves.
44. A scratch-off poster featuring 100 video games that every gamer should check off their bucket list.
ASOS - With iconic games like Sonic the Hedgehog and Spyro the Dragon, alongside modern favorites like Minecraft and Assassin's Creed, this poster is sure to impress gamers of all ages. It will undoubtedly challenge them to conquer the entire list. Get it from ASOS for $21.
45. A pocket-sized arcade game, allowing gaming enthusiasts to take their beloved classics with them wherever they go.
46. A pair of blue-light-blocking glasses, because if your friend is gaming as much as I think, they should definitely have these to help reduce eye strain.
If you're lucky, the gamer in your life might actually take a break and say 'thanks!' for the thoughtful gifts. But, don’t hold your breath for it.
For more last-minute gift ideas, take a look at these lists:
35 Gifts For Anyone Who Really Loves Nintendo
24 Phone Accessories That Will Completely Elevate Your Device
48 Amazing Gift Ideas for Your Sister This Year
34 Stocking Stuffer Ideas to Add Some Disney Magic to Christmas Morning
