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Games and gaming tech are constantly changing and improving, so gamers are always looking to upgrade or try out the latest offerings. There’s so much to choose from when shopping for a gift, too. There are new consoles, accessories, computers, TVs, games, and so much more to test out.
Not sure what to get the gamer in your life this holiday season? Here are a few gift ideas that will surely please any gamer:
Virtual Reality Gear
VR technology has greatly improved over the last few years, so now is a really good time to get into VR gaming. There are plenty of different VR-related gifts to consider depending on your budget and what the gamer you’re shopping for already has. You might want to consider getting them a VR headset, a subscription to a VR service (like Viveport), or VR gear (like haptic gloves).
If it’s in your budget, go for headsets like the Oculus Quest or Oculus Rift S; both typically range from $400 to $500. Then there’s the Oculus Go for $200 if you want something a bit cheaper. If money is no object, the absolute best VR headset on the market right now is the HTC Vive Pro, which will set you back roughly $1,400.
On the much more affordable end, Google Cardboard is a great introduction to virtual reality and will only cost around $15 to $25. To use it, you’ll need to use your smartphone and download compatible apps (like the Cardboard app) which will allow you to experience virtual worlds on the cheap.
Retro Gaming Console
If the gaming lover in your life is a fan of retro ‘80s classics like Tetris, Donkey Kong, The Legend of Zelda, and Super Mario Bros 3, then you must get them one of the redesigned retro gaming consoles like the NES Classic Edition, the Super NES Classic Edition, the Sony PlayStation Classic, or the Sega Genesis Mini.
These new-and-improved versions are basically miniature versions of the original consoles they’re named after. They also come with some of the most popular games preloaded onto the consoles. These consoles typically range from around $25 on eBay to $150 new, but you’ll probably be able to snag one for under $100.
An Updated Console
Another great gift option to consider is one of the main consoles currently on the market. Nintendo just released an updated version of the Nintendo Switch called Nintendo Switch Lite, which is designed specifically for mobile use. It retails for around $200.
Then there’s the Sony PlayStation 4 Pro, which is much improved from its predecessor. It includes a 1 TB hard drive, motion control, and 4K support. It costs around $350. Another console you should definitely consider is the Xbox One X, which costs around $300 to $500. This Xbox model is one of the most powerful consoles you can buy. But if you’re more interested in portability and a streamlined design, go for the XBox One S All-Digital Edition, which retails for around $250.
A Subscription Service
Most major gaming brands have some type of subscription service that they offer. So odds are, the gamer in your life likely has at least one, but more likely several, gaming subscription services. Find out which subscriptions they already have, or at least which consoles they have, and you’re all set for the next step.
If your gamer has an Xbox, go for a Xbox Live Gold gift card or an Xbox Game Pass gift card. For PlayStation fans, opt for a PlayStation Plus or PlayStation Now gift card. For Nintendo Switch, go for the Switch Online service gift card. Other options include gift cards to Apple Arcade (Apple’s new video game subscription service) or EA Access (compatible with Xbox One and PlayStation 4).
One of these gaming gifts is sure to be just what you’re looking for. And when in doubt, you can never go wrong with a gaming gift card. Happy gifting!
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