No longer the hobby of pale virgins hiding out in their parent’s basements, gamers are now titans of industry and some of the most exceptional people in the world. Their love of the digital realm and the interactive storytelling of video games helps to make them imaginative and gives them a way to blow off steam. Gaming is a passion like few others, where critical thinking, narrative chronicling, team building, and quick reflexes are rewarded. A keen eye and a honed mind are necessary, but gamers also need the right gear to help them up their game and stay competitive in the savage world of the modern gamer.
In choosing the 20 best holiday gifts for gamers, we looked deeper than just the newest titles on the market to give gamers things that will take them to the next level, conquer epic bosses, and rack up wins whether they’re a console maven or a PC fragger.
GamerGrip
Give your gamer the gift of better grip with this palm antiperspirant that stops palm sweat for better accuracy in the trenches and faster reactions thanks to dry fingers and hands. Also works for first dates, sports, or stopping clammy hands during a job interview.
KontrolFreek Gaming Sticks
By simply enhancing the length of the analog control sticks on console controllers, it is possible to achieve more exact movement and aim, giving gamers a better chance to attain headshots and more precision whether playing in a tournament or just killing time at home.
Xbox One: $13 PlayStation 4: $13
Energizer 2X Charging System
For faster charging than using the system cords, as well as a pair of backup battery packs that allow the game to go on even when the power has died, this charging system lets your gamer get back into the fray faster.
Ortz PS4 Vertical Stand with Cooling Fan
Turn the stylish look of the PS4 into a true showpiece with this vertical stand. Intended to help cool the Playstation 4 for longer life and better function, this also adds a bit of showmanship to your console for a more mature appearance that fits with adult decor.
PlayStation TV
Watch television or stream a huge library of PS One, PSP, PS Vita games and more with the PlayStation TV system. Using just an HDMI plug and a controller it can help expand your gaming universe, or act as your primary console for the home. It’s the affordable console for the casual gamer and a supplementary console for the hardcore.
8Bitdo NES30 Retro Bluetooth Gamepad
Most of today’s gamers cut their teeth on the original NES. Let them once again feel the glory of an 8-bit controller with this Nintendo replica that is enabled to work with iOS and Android devices for mobile gaming with a nostalgic flair.
Logitech HD Pro Webcam
If your gamer also likes to capture frags for posterity, record video, or just chat face to face with vanquished foes, this 1080p webcam is built to help get the whole picture in full HD, ready for posting on their gaming vlog or streaming live to their followers.
Gunnar Optiks Computer Glasses
These computer glasses reduce glare and eliminate eye strain for gamers that enjoy marathon sessions where they lose whole days down the rabbit hole. At just 20 grams they’re light enough for extended wear but durable enough to stand up to frustrated impacts with both desk and monitor.
Logitech G502 Proteus Core Mouse
Largely considered the Bugatti of gaming mice, the Proteus Core from Logitech gives loads of customization options. From changing the size to the button layout, it puts all your commands right where you need them with comfort for days of extended, intense play.
Blue Microphones Yeti USB Mic
The Yeti is a simple USB microphone that is plug and play compatible. Its sensitive condenser construction allows it to record all the trash talk and deep thoughts of any game streamer who wants to capture their kills and victories for YouTube stardom.
Gamevice iPhone & iPad Controller
Add a whole new gaming component to the iPhone and iPad Mini. Made by Gamevice, this is the official game controller for the hard-core, fast-twitch button masher who needs to enhance his on-the-go experience. It adds depth and dimension to any iOS app.
Samsung Gear VR
Pure game immersion is the dream of every hardcore gamer, but until it happens, Virtual Reality is the next best thing. This affordable headset from Samsung lets gamers get right into the action without costing an arm and a leg.
Seagate 2TB Game Drive
If your gamer is filling up their hard drive too quickly with new games, give them 2 terabytes of storage space to keep all of their stuff saved safely on this mobile HDD. Capable of stashing more than 50 full games.
Scuf Gaming Controllers
Never again let your gamer work with factory standard equipment. Give them an enhanced controller that is fully able to be customized and changed for their style of play. Remap buttons and add new functions with paddles and personalized controls suited to the individual and the needs of the moment. Ideal for aspiring pros.
Logitech G910 Orion Spark Keyboard
A gamer without a mechanical keyboard is like a Kardashian without entitlement: It’s just wrong. The Orion Spark is smoother and less clacky than other options and will help any PC powerhouse really get his kill to death ratio to a respectable point.
ASTRO Gaming MixAmp Pro
There’s a lot of things that console manufacturers do right, but audio is rarely one of them. To make a good set of gaming headphones really sing out, you need a quality mixing amp that is made for capturing the unique sound environment that exists in the gaming world. Never again settle for factory standard sound.
ASTRO Gaming A40 PC Headset Kit
Using a removable, swappable, bendable mic along with comfortable earpads and a cord made for going on the road, these prevent ear sweat and fatigue even when running raids for 48 solid hours, living on caffeine and adrenaline. Sound so immersive, they’ll never hear anything you say ever again. We recommend pairing with the MixAmp above for best results.
iBuyPower Custom Gaming PC
If you really love your gamer and don’t mind spending more than a few hundred dollars, then you can get them a whole new gaming rig for their home. Each computer built by iBuyPower comes with a full warranty and allows you to do as much or as little customization as you want to get a box that screams.
Next Generation Console
Right now there’s two killer consoles to choose from (you can also get a Wii U if you’re behind the times) and if your gamer hasn’t gotten on board with at least one, they’re doing it wrong. With dropped prices on bundles, there’s never been a better time to snag a PS4 or an Xbox One with the newest AAA titles.
PlayStation 4 Bundle: $299 Xbox One Bundle: $299
Top Games
If you’re out of ideas, then you can’t lose with one of the biggest games out right now. From sports games to role-playing to random violence to bringing the evil empire to its knees, there’s something on the market for every gamer.
