Shopping for a gamer sounds easy, you just get them an affordable game or something like that, right? Well, if not a game, at least the internet is full of headsets, RGB keyboards, and mugs that say things like “I Paused My Game for This” in bold pixelated font. But let’s be honest here with ourselves, most gamers already have every accessory they need (including the cringey ones). And if they don’t, they’ve already got their eye on exactly what they want, and it probably isn’t the random gaming mouse found in a last-minute shopping panic.
Basically, the best gifts aren’t just stuff that sits next to their console or PC collecting dust. The best gifts are practical, thoughtful, and something that actually fits into their life outside of gaming.
This is about gifts that make them laugh, impress them, or make them think, “Wow, this person actually gets me.”
Clothing that Speaks their Language
Gaming T-shirts from big retailers are easy to find, but nobody wants to walk around looking like they lost a bet with a “Born to Game, Forced to Work” slogan plastered across their chest. That’s so 2005, and plus it sounds more like something a kid would wear, right? Well, the key is subtle, stuff that only true gamers will recognise.
For example, a hoodie featuring a clean, minimalist reference to their favourite RPG? Well, it could be a pretty cool gift. How about trainers with colourways inspired by a classic gaming console? But maybe even a sleek bomber jacket embroidered with a tiny detail from a game they love? Well, when it comes to all of these, that’s the kind of thing they’ll wear everywhere, and only the real ones will nod in approval.
Just think of it this way; gaming fashion for people who don’t want to look like walking merch stands.
Custom License Plate to Level Up Their Ride
Not every gaming tribute needs to be worn, or collecting dust on a display case. Actually, some fans want to take their passion onto the road, and private number plates are one way to do it. So, why something like this?
Well, just go ahead and imagine a racing game fanatic rolling up with a plate that pays homage to their favourite in-game car (maybe even something like the GTA series). Or an RPG lover with a registration that subtly references a legendary quest. It’s the kind of detail that turns a regular car into their car, a little personal touch.
Artwork that Brings their Favourite Worlds to Life
Some people hang up pictures of beaches or sunsets. But gamers want to decorate their space with the worlds they’ve actually spent hundreds of hours exploring. But this isn’t about slapping a mass-produced poster onto the wall. Instead, the real winners are high-quality prints, stylish framed maps of in-game worlds, or oil paintings of cyberpunk skylines and pixelated landscapes.
Just be careful to not accidentally buy or commission anything that’s AI art, and instead, just support real artists.
Books that Let them Dive Even Deeper
Gaming isn’t just about smashing buttons, rather, it’s about stories, characters, and worlds that feel as real as anything outside the screen. Actually, the right book makes that experience even richer.
For the lore-obsessed, official game companion books packed with concept art and behind-the-scenes details let them see how their favourite worlds were built. Not every game has this of course, but some of the major game series do, like the Legend of Zelda (there’s at least four books in this series), there’s Mario, but so many others too. And for the real gaming historians, there are books diving into the chaotic, wild, and often hilarious history of game development, full of stories about how some of the most legendary games almost never made it out of the studio.
Now, these books can be pricey, just a word of warning, but this is the kind of gift that keeps the obsession going long after they’ve finished the game itself.
Food and Drink that Matches Their Favourite Games
Food is just food… unless it’s inspired by a game. Then it becomes an experience. There are entire cookbooks dedicated to video game-inspired recipes. Imagine whipping up sweet rolls straight out of Skyrim, a potion-like cocktail inspired by a fantasy RPG, or a bowl of ramen that looks like it came straight from an anime-style game. The same can be said for drinks. You could buy a cookbook, but if they’re not the type to cook, well, you’re wasting your money.
Alternatively, you can make them something. It’s cheaper, easier, and comes from the heart. For example, if it’s their birthday, then you can just make or buy a black forest cake, especially if they’re a fan of Portal.
Futuristic Watch
Okay, so you might not be able to get a pip boy, but what’s so bad about that? Instead, just look into the next best thing; a watch. There are watches, and then there are watches that look like they belong in a futuristic sci-fi game.
Basically, you’ll want to think sleek, cyberpunk-inspired LED displays, smartwatches with custom game HUD-style interfaces, or even vintage-style pocket watches that look like they could be part of a steampunk adventure. This is the kind of gift that subtly screams “gamer” without looking like a toy. It’s stylish, it’s practical, and it’s something they’ll actually use.
Themed Travel Gear
Not every gamer is glued to their screen all day, well, thankfully, but some of them actually go outside. When they do, they might as well travel in style. Maybe consider a backpack with hidden compartments for gadgets, luggage inspired by classic consoles, or even passport holders designed like in-game inventory screens, these all take their love for gaming beyond their usual setup.
For the retro gaming fan, travel cases shaped like old-school consoles are the ultimate throwback. It’s stylish, practical, and guaranteed to spark a conversation with other gamers on the move.
Chair that’s Built for Comfort and Style
Most gaming chairs look like gaming chairs, they’re big, flashy, and designed to make a home office look like a spaceship. Some gamers love that. Others want something sleek, stylish, and actually comfortable without neon colours screaming from every corner. Honestly, there’s some truth too because a lot of them just have this childish look to them, rather than that mature feeling.
So, depending on how much money you have, you might want to consider a high-end ergonomic chair that fits into any space, instead of those neon gamer colours, it’s something more mature like brown leather for example. Seriously, how nice does that sound?
And for those who still want a touch of personality, there are custom chairs stitched with subtle references to legendary franchises (granted these tend to be limited edition and super expensive). But if you can get your hands on one, well, it’s the perfect middle ground between style and fandom.
Subscription that Fuels their Gaming Passion
Physical gifts are great, but sometimes the best present is something that keeps on giving long after the wrapping paper is gone. Okay, now this is a super old concept, and it’s something that has been going for years. Sometimes it’s junk, sometimes it’s not. But overall, companies like Loot Crate as well as other gaming inspired subscriptions are absolutely perfect.
Again, it depends on the company but there’s usually monthly mystery boxes packed with collectibles, game-inspired snacks, and exclusive merch, making every delivery feel like opening a loot crate. But if this isn’t their thing, then there are other options like Tokyo Treat, if they’re into Japanese culture, craft beer, you name it.
