Shopping for gifts for gamers is a double-edged Master Sword. On the one hand, there are so many cool games, consoles, and accessories to choose from — especially in a year like 2023, where every other release was a Game of the Year contender. But there's also just so much to choose from, to the point where you might feel under-leveled for the "simple" task of picking that just-right gift.

That's where we come in. To help you on your side quest to find the perfect present for a gamer friend or loved one, we've compiled a massive list of more than 50 gamer gift ideas for the 2023 holiday season — including a bunch of games we've played and products we've tested ourselves.

If you're gifting on a budget, you'll do well with a new accessory for your recipient's existing setup, a few months' worth of their favorite video game subscription service, or a copy of a popular game from the past few months. Leveling up over the $100 mark expands your options to high-end peripherals, while $200 and above unlocks current-gen consoles, bundles, and gaming laptops. We've peppered in a few limited-edition collectibles at different price points, too.

Keep reading to check out our picks for the best gifts for gamers:

Topics Gaming Nintendo PlayStation Xbox

Credit: Posh Paws / Mashable composite

A Posh Paws Plush Pupstation Gaming Controller Dog Toy

This gamepad-shaped dog toy is designed for PC — as in, power chewers. It has a plush fabric exterior and a built-in squeaker that definitely won't be distracting during a "Warzone" Battle Royale match.

Buying Options

$10.11 from Walmart

Credit: GTRACING

GTRACING gaming chair from Walmart

Equally at home in both a home office or game room, this comfy and ergonomic perch will help any player level up. The adjustable chair comes complete with armrests, lumbar support, retractable footrest, and even a removable headrest. If you don't know your "Frogger" from your "Fortnite" but are gifting to an obsessive gamer, then this makes a great option for optimizing their experience.

Buying Options

$129 from Walmart

Credit: Mintrocket

'Dave the Diver'

Nintendo Switch and PC

Mintrocket's endearing pixel RPG puts players in the flippers of its titular ocean explorer, fisherman, and sushi restaurant manager. It's a cozy game with the occasional edge: There's some scary stuff lurking down in the deep blue sea.

Buying Options

$19.99 from My Nintendo Store

a close-up of three christmas-themed dwarf factory keycaps on a keyboard

Credit: Dwarf Factory

An artisan keycap

A custom keycap adds some extra pizazz to an otherwise standard gaming keyboard. The specialty keyboard retailer Drop has an ever-changing selection of limited-edition pieces from well-known brands like Craftkey and Dwarf Factory that range from $20 to $65.

Buying Options

$20 from Drop

Credit: Adams Media / Mashable composite

'The Unofficial Sims Cookbook'

This cookbook contains over 85 recipes (plus corresponding photos) for well-known dishes from 'The Sims" — everything from lobster thermidor to baked Alaska. It's geared toward aspiring chefs at a range of skill levels. Shpansa!

Buying Options

$21.99 from Amazon

Credit: AT&T

An internet upgrade from AT&T

We don't know who needs to hear this, but a one-time upgrade to faster internet is the gift that keeps on giving. (Literally.) Think lag-free gaming, speedy browsing, and more, all without equipment fees or an annual contract. Pro tip: Order AT&T Fiber and get an extra $150 reward card when you enter code HOLIDAY150 at checkout.

Buying Options

See Details

man standing in front of desk with curved monitor

Credit: HP

A curved monitor from Staples

Best for first-person gaming

Anyone stuck playing on a flat monitor will be thrilled to add a curved option to their PC gaming setup. Not only does the innovative design allow for a better field of vision (especially in first-person games) but it also just looks super cool. This model from HP features a fast refresh rate, a customizable display, and built-in dual speakers — all the stuff that really matters.

Buying Options

$129.99 from Staples

Credit: Abrams Books / Mashable composite

'Video Game of the Year'

Written by Jordan Minor, senior analyst at our sister site PCMag, "VGOY" dissects the most influential titles across 40 years of gaming history. (Spoiler: Something managed to beat out "Breath of the Wild" for 2017's slot.) Colorful illustrations and over 75 guest blurbs supplement Minor's voicey and thoughtful essays.

Buying Options

$27.99 from Amazon

Credit: Blizzard Entertainment / Mashable composite

'Diablo: The Sanctuary Tarot Deck and Guidebook'

A sick find for a witchy gamer friend, this deluxe box set contains 78 beautifully illustrated tarot cards embellished with scarlet foil (plus a companion guidebook). The arcana designs are all inspired by Sanctuary, the hellish world where Blizzard Entertainment's best-selling "Diablo" series takes place.

Buying Options

$30 from Amazon

Credit: Bethesda Softworks

'Hi-Fi RUSH'

Xbox and PC

"HFR" is a rhythm-based action game that challenges players to sync their attacks with music — simple, yet riveting. "It’s a video game toe-tapper that also happens to have a stunning ... art style and a spunky attitude that you just don’t see enough of anymore," said Mashable tech and games reporter Alex Perry.

Buying Options

$29.99 from Amazon

Credit: Kepler Interactive

'Tchia'

PlayStation and PC

This "Zelda"-esque open-world game lets you possess animals in a gorgeous homage to New Caledonia, the small island nation where its lead developers grew up. "The characters are voiced by local actors, the music is done by local artists, and the whole thing has a totally fresh vibe," Perry wrote.

Buying Options

$34.99 from Amazon

Credit: Jackbox Games

'The Jackbox Party Pack 10'

Windows, Mac, and Linux

The latest iteration of Jackbox's popular party games collection brings five new trivia, roleplaying, music, and drawing challenges — including "Tee K.O. 2," the updated version of a chaotic, fan-favorite entry from a past pack. They each support up to nine players, who tune in via phone or tablet.

Buying Options

$34.99 from Steam

a close-up of a sandisk microsd card next to a nintendo switch

Credit: SanDisk

A 128GB SanDisk microSDXC Card

The internal memory of a Nintendo Switch maxes out at 32GB to 64GB, depending on the model, so most regular players will need to add more storage eventually. SanDisk's fingernail-sized microSD card is the perfect solution and a nice little stocking stuffer.

Buying Options

$34.99 from Amazon

the B-12 & Zurk Cat Toy Set by Stray x Travel Cat in its packaging against a blue, purple, and orange abstract background

Credit: Travel Cat / Mashable composite

A B-12 & Zurk Cat Toy Set by 'Stray' x Travel Cat

This limited-edition set comes with two cat toys inspired by the B-12 drone and a robot-eating Zurk from "Stray," Annapurna Interactive's hit indie adventure game (which will soon be a movie). They both have hidden Velcro pockets for catnip; four grams of it are included.

Buying Options

$39.99 from Travel Cat

Credit: Rockstar Store

Rockstar Games socks

It's not quite as exciting as an advanced copy of "GTA 6," but Rockstar superfans will be amped to receive something from the publisher's new holiday merch collection. These colorful socks emblazoned with the publisher's logo come in two sizes.

Buying Options

$39.99 from Rockstar Store

three xbox series xes wrapped in microsoft's console wraps against a gray camo background

Credit: Microsoft

An Xbox Series X Console Wrap

Microsoft's Xbox Series X wraps make its flagship console look a little less fridge-y. They're made with sleek microfiber fabric that comes in three designs: Arctic camo, Mineral camo, and a "Starfield" variant inspired by Bethesda's sci-fi RPG.

Buying Options

$44.99 from Microsoft Store

Credit: BANDAI NAMCO Store

'Elden Ring' Standard Edition Vinyl

The "Elden Ring" original soundtrack is packed with dramatic orchestral bangers, and this LP (pressed in marbled gray vinyl) makes an awesome collector's item. At the very least, your giftee won't have to wait for the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC in total boring silence.

Buying Options

$49.99 from BANDAI NAMCO Store

hero art for the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack

Credit: Nintendo

A Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership

The highest tier of Nintendo's subscription service unlocks online multiplayer, over 100 classic Nintendo 64 and SEGA Genesis games, the "Animal Crossing: New Horizons" DLC, and all six waves of the "Mario Kart 8 Deluxe" Booster Course Pass. (Two words: Rainbow Road.)

Buying Options

$49.99 from Nintendo

a collage of cover imaged for games available on playstation plus

Credit: Sony

A PlayStation Plus Premium subscription

PlayStation Plus' beefiest membership plan includes hundreds of downloadable games on demand, streamable classics from older-gen consoles, free game trials, online multiplayer, and exclusive discounts.

Buying Options

$49.99 from PlayStation Store

a collage of screenshots from games available on xbox game pass ultimate

Credit: Microsoft

An Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription

Your recipient gets access to an ever-changing library of Xbox and PC games (including day one titles), a bonus EA Play membership, special discounts, and online multiplayer with a Game Pass Ultimate subscription.

Buying Options

$49.99 from Best Buy

the LEGO Super Mario Piranha Plant on a black metal shelf surrounded by other knick-knacks

Credit: LEGO

A LEGO Super Mario Piranha Plant

One of LEGO's newest Super Mario building sets is a miniature, posable version of the cute-but-chompy Piranha Plant, complete with its own green p̶o̶t pipe. It contains 540 pieces and is meant for ages 18-plus.

Buying Options

$59.99 from Target

Credit: Logitech

A Logitech G Yeti Orb

This baseball-shaped USB mic from Logitech's gaming line (which recently ditched the "Blue" branding) is aimed at gamers who are just dipping their toes into streaming. It sports an RBG logo with customizable lighting and comes with its own stand.

Buying Options

$59.99 from Amazon

Credit: Stardew Store / Mashable composite

'Stardew Valley: The Board Game'

Now in its third print run, the "Stardew Valley" tabletop adaptation gives fans of the cult-favorite farming sim a new way to feed their obsession. "It’s a lot tougher than its namesake but that’s okay, as that’s a necessary step up for a fun board game," said IGN (also owned by Mashable's publisher, Ziff Davis).

Buying Options

$50 from Amazon

Credit: Remedy Entertainment

'Alan Wake II'

Xbox, PlayStation, and PC

Remedy Entertainment's long-awaited sequel is a masterpiece — and Mashable's No. 1 game of 2023. "A tense, slow, and acid-induced horror journey through the eyes of its main protagonists, Alan Wake and Saga Anderson, [it] sits at the very pinnacle of the survival horror genre," wrote assistant editor Chance Townsend.

Buying Options

$59.99 from PlayStation Store

Credit: CD Projekt RED

'Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition'

Xbox, PlayStation, and PC

CD Projekt Red definitively redeemed its dystopian open-world RPG this year with a massive 2.0 base game update and the excellent Phantom Liberty expansion. The new "Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition," which bundles them, is now the best way to jump (back) into Night City.

Buying Options

$59.99 from GameStop

Credit: NEOWIZ

'Lies of P'

Xbox, PlayStation, and PC

"Lies of P" is a dark fantasy souls-like game inspired by "The Adventures of Pinocchio" that's "both inspired and hard to put down," said Townsend. It's a no-brainer for any "Bloodborne" obsessors you know and one of the year's biggest surprise hits; its publisher Neowiz already has plans for both a DLC and a sequel.

Buying Options

$59.99 from Best Buy

Credit: Square Enix

'Octopath Traveler II'

Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, and PC

Square Enix's latest turn-based RPG has it all: "Charming characters, a world that can accommodate wide-eyed idealism, grimdark murder mysteries — and even a storyline about simply wanting to become the world’s most famous dancer," wrote Perry. As the cherry on top, its boss fight music slaps.

Buying Options

$59.99 from Amazon

Credit: Capcom

'Resident Evil 4'

Xbox, PlayStation, and PC

Calling the 2023 version of "RE4" a mere remake doesn't do it justice: "[It] recontextualizes its 18-year-old predecessor for modern audiences and improves its formula while also staying true to its roots," said Townsend. Suffice to say, it's another instant classic within the survival horror genre.

Buying Options

$59.99 from Best Buy

Credit: Nintendo

'Super Mario Bros. Wonder'

Nintendo Switch

"Wonder" is the first new Super Mario Bros. side-scroller in over 10 years, and it marks an "exceedingly silly and playful return to form" for the Nintendo franchise, wrote Perry. Up to four players can join locally for family-friendly fun.

Buying Options

$59.99 from Best Buy

front and back views of the Ellie's Backpack Replica

Credit: PlayStation Gear Store

A replica of Ellie's backpack from 'The Last of Us'

This real-life reproduction of the rugged, post-apocalyptic-chic backpack that Ellie carries around in "TLOU Part I" is a practical gamer gift (and one that doesn't outwardly scream "gamer gift" unless you're in the know). Switchblade and joke books not included.

Buying Options

$64.95 from PlayStation Gear Store

Credit: Electronic Arts

'Dead Space'

Xbox, PlayStation, and PC

The modern remake of Visceral Games’ gory sci-fi game from 2008 belongs right up there with this year's "RE4" redo. "Almost everything about the game has been improved," Townsend wrote, "from the big things like the satisfying, visceral combat to smaller quality of life changes for navigating what was once a clunky UI and upgrade system."

Buying Options

$69.99 from GameStop

Credit: Nintendo

'The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom'

Nintendo Switch

Okay, so your giftee may already have this title, but if they don't, consider it non-optional. Instead of trying to one-up its predecessor (difficulty level: impossible), "TOTK" expands upon it with additional areas to explore, inventive new mechanics to play with, and more surprises to discover. "This is a wickedly imaginative sequel to one of the best games ever made," said Perry.

Buying Options

$69.99 from Best Buy

Credit: Insomniac Games / Sony Interactive Entertainment

'Marvel's Spider-Man 2'

PlayStation

"Spider-Man 2" takes everything players loved from the first two games — unrivaled traversal mechanics, a heartfelt story, web wings — and fine-tunes it to near perfection. It's also 100% completable in about 25 hours, Perry noted, which is refreshing for those of us gamers trying to hold down a job and a social life.

Buying Options

$69.99 from Amazon

Credit: Electronic Arts

'Star Wars Jedi: Survivor'

Xbox, PlayStation, and PC

At a time where Star Wars content is…well, not that great, "Star Wars Jedi: Survivor" is a breath of fresh air. The game's more open approach improves on the last entry's already fantastic exploration elements, and combat is more fun than ever with the addition of new lightsaber stances (including one with a badass blaster).

Buying Options

$69.99 from Best Buy

Credit: Microsoft / Mashable composite

A custom Xbox Wireless Controller

Hunting for a personalized gift for a gamer? You can customize two of Microsoft's joypads with different-colored components and shimmering hues in the online Xbox Design Lab. Choose from the standard Xbox Wireless Controller or the premium Elite Series 2, which has swappable parts and a rechargeable battery.

Buying Options

$69.99 from Xbox Design Lab

Credit: Larian Merch Store

'Baldur's Gate 3' Deluxe Edition

Xbox, PlayStation, and PC

"BG3" has set a new standard for CRPG games with its outstanding writing, immense replayability, and myriad customization options. It's a must-play for "Dungeons & Dragons" fans — and anyone who appreciates a good romance plotline. (Seriously, this game is horny.) The brand-new deluxe edition includes iron-on patches, a poster, a three-CD soundtrack, and other rad collectibles.

Buying Options

$79.99 from Larian Merch Store

four pastel joy-con sitting on white and clear blocks on a pink surface

Credit: Nintendo

A pair of pastel Joy-Con

Available in two combinations (Purple/Green or Pink/Yellow), Nintendo's candy-colored Joy-Con are an adorable alternative to the standard controllers that come with its non-Lite Switches. Plus, it's handy to have some extras for multiplayer games like "Mario Party SuperStars" and "Mario Kart 8 Deluxe."

Buying Options

$79.99 from Amazon

Credit: Nanoleaf

A Nanoleaf 4D Screen Mirror + Lightstrip Kit

This kit syncs the colors from a TV or monitor's screen onto an LED strip mounted behind it, creating immersive and cinematic "4D" backlighting that changes with every shot. It's a cool and unconventional upgrade to a gaming setup that your giftee probably doesn't have yet.

Buying Options

$99.99 from Best Buy

Credit: Backbone

A Backbone One

With support for apps like Xbox Cloud Gaming, PS Remote Play, and GeForce Now, the Backbone One is an intuitive mobile controller that can turn a smartphone into a portable gaming console. There are Lighting and USB-C models available for both Xbox and PlayStation.

Buying Options

$99.99 from Amazon

Credit: Western Digital

A WD_BLACK P50 Game Drive SSD

A beefy SSD will ensure that your recipient never has to delete games from their precious library to make room for new installs. The WD_BLACK P50 is available in several capacities (from 500GB to 4TB) for consoles and PC.

Buying Options

$129.99 from Western Digital

two Logitech G502 X Plus on a bumpy purple and blue surface

Credit: Logitech

A Logitech G502 X Plus

Mashable's favorite gaming mouse comes in a premium wireless version "boasting up to 120 hours of battery life," per contributor Ashley Keegan. It features customizable RGB lighting, an ultra-accurate sensor, and some hybrid optical-mechanical switches for quick and tactile clicks.

Buying Options

$159.99 from Amazon

Credit: Sony / Mashable composite

A PlayStation DualSense Edge wireless controller

PS5 players who take their gameplay *very* seriously will adore Sony's high-end gamepad, which adds swappable components, remappable back buttons, and personalizable profiles to its DualSense design (but retains its excellent signature haptics and comfort). It comes with its own protective carrying case.

Buying Options

$199.99 from Amazon

a playstation portal next to a playstation 5 against a white backdrop

Credit: Sony

A PlayStation Portal Remote Player

The Portal is an all-new PS5 accessory that lets users stream games from their console over WiFi when someone else is hogging the TV. It has its issues (and doesn't do anything a phone can't already do), but its "excellent form factor, good display, and overall usefulness" have Perry reaching for it often.

Buying Options

$199.99 from PlayStation Direct

black and white Razer BlackShark V2 Pro headsets in a dark warehouse-style room lit by pink and blue lighting

Credit: Razer

A Razer BlackShark V2 Pro

The cushy BlackShark V2 Pro is an exceptionally comfy wireless gaming headset equipped with THX Spatial Audio, a detachable mic, and up to 70 hours of battery life. It's on the pricier side, but you shouldn't have a hard time finding it on sale closer to $120.

Buying Options

$199.99 from Amazon

Credit: Analogue

An Analogue Pocket

If your gamer friend has a collection of old Game Boy titles that's just collecting dust, get them a Pocket: The unique handheld is built specifically to play those cartridges (not merely emulate them). It's a really neat gift for retro gaming enthusiasts — if you can find it in stock.

Buying Options

$219.99 from Analogue

Credit: Razer

A Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro

The clickety-clackety BlackWidow V4 Pro is a full-sized mechanical gaming keyboard that's decked out in a ton of features, including dedicated macro and media keys, a command dial, a cushy built-in wrist rest, and pretty underglow RGB lighting. It's a splurge, but it'll be the last keyboard your PC-playing recipient ever needs.

Buying Options

$229.99 from Amazon

a first-person view of someone playing a game on an airplane using an xbox series s with a uspec gaming xscreen attached to it

Credit: UPspec Gaming

A UPspec Gaming xScreen

Giftees who already own an Xbox Series S will be able to play it anywhere (sans TV or monitor) with the xScreen, an attachable screen with a 60Hz display and built-in speakers. A second version that matches the new Carbon Black Series S is in the works, FYI.

Buying Options

$249.99 from Amazon

the xbox series s – 1TB and a black xbox controller against a smoky black background

Credit: Microsoft

An Xbox Series S – 1TB

The new Series S makes over Microsoft's disc drive-free console in edgy Carbon Black and doubles its storage to 1TB (same as the Series X). It's only $50 more than the original white, 512GB model, which is cheaper than buying a storage expansion card for it.

Buying Options

$349.99 from Amazon

packaging for the Nintendo Switch - OLED 'Super Smash Bros. Ultimate' Bundle against a purple, blue, and orange background

Credit: Nintendo / Mashable composite

A Nintendo Switch - OLED 'Super Smash Bros. Ultimate' Bundle

New for the 2023 holiday season, the first OLED Switch bundle comes with a three-month Switch Online membership and a download code for "Super Smash Bros. Ultimate," an epic who's who of Nintendo characters. It's a $417.97 value altogether.

Buying Options

$349.99 from Target

Credit: Meta

A Meta Quest 3

Meta's new wireless mixed-reality headset nabbed a Mashable's Choice Award for its sleek design, ergonomic controllers, automatic play mapping, and full-color passthrough. "[It] had me ducking behind my chair and fighting fuzzy alien creatures who’ve crashed into my dining room," said tech editor Kim Gedeon.

Buying Options

$499.99 from Amazon

packaging for the PlayStation 5 (Slim) 'Marvel’s Spider-Man 2' Bundle against a purple, blue, and orange background

Credit: Sony / Mashable composite

A PlayStation 5 (Slim) 'Marvel’s Spider-Man 2' Bundle

Sony unveiled a new PlayStation 5 model this fall with a slimmer design and a detachable disc drive. This bundle tacks on a digital copy of one of the year's best PS5 exclusives for the price of the console itself — a great buy for current-gen upgraders.

Buying Options

$499.99 from Amazon

a top-down view of a steam deck oled on a black surface

Credit: Valve

A Valve Steam Deck OLED

The new version of our favorite handheld PC gaming console has a brighter OLED screen, a longer-lasting battery, twice as much storage, and a larger fan that helps it run cooler. It's a neat device that can "impressively handle a lot of what you throw at it" and a "worthy revision" to the original Steam Deck, said Perry.

Buying Options

$549 from Steam

Credit: VITURE

A pair of VITURE One XR Glasses

Compatible with certain smartphones, laptops, and handheld PC consoles (including the Steam Deck LCD), these smart glasses are basically a portable and wearable 120-inch TV. They're another Mashable's Choice Award-winner, and Gedeon said they're "my favorite tech device I've tested this year."

Buying Options

$549 from Amazon

an HP Victus 16 against a purple, blue, and orange abstract background

Credit: HP / Mashable composite

An HP Victus 16 Gaming Laptop

The HP Victus 16 is a gaming PC that has no trouble handling a graphics-heavy title like "Cyberpunk 2077" — and its slick all-black chassis makes it "one hell of a looker," wrote Mashable tech editor Kim Gedeon recently. The RTX 4060 configuration sometimes goes on sale for $999.99, dropping it from mid-range to budget territory.

Buying Options

$1,399.99 from HP

Dylan Haas

Lead Shopping Reporter

Dylan Haas is a Lead Shopping Reporter for Mashable, where he covers all things gaming, pets, fitness, sleep, and shopping events like Black Friday and Prime Day. Before joining the team at Mashable, Dylan received a B.A. in Communications from Pace University and contributed to publications like Paste Magazine, Bandsintown, and others following a brief stint as a marketing and management assistant in the music industry.

When he's not writing or testing products, you can find Dylan playing lots of video games, working out, spending time with loved ones (especially his dog, Stevie), or watching reality TV. Follow him on X at @iamdylanhaas, or send him an email at [email protected].

Haley Henschel

Senior Shopping Reporter

Haley Henschel is a Chicago-based Senior Shopping Reporter at Mashable who reviews and finds deals on popular tech, from laptops to gaming consoles and VPNs. She has years of experience covering shopping holidays and can tell you what’s actually worth buying on Black Friday and Amazon Prime Day. Her work has also explored the driving forces behind digital trends within the shopping sphere, from dupes to 12-foot skeletons.

Haley received a B.A. in Journalism from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and honed her sifting and winnowing skills at The Daily Cardinal. She previously covered politics for The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, investigated exotic pet ownership for Wisconsin Watch, and blogged for some of your favorite reality stars.

In her free time, Haley enjoys playing video games, drawing, taking walks on Lake Michigan, and spending time with her parrot (Melon) and dog (Pierogi). She really, really wants to get back into horseback riding. You can follow her on X at @haleyhenschel or reach her via email at [email protected].