Almost everyone today is a gamer. Even those who have never downloaded a game from Steam or picked up an Xbox controller have still likely played a mobile game over the last few years. The rise of casual games has helped put gaming on the map for the average person—even if popular eSports leagues and Twitch streamers take the headlines more often.
Gaming, in all its shapes and sizes, has truly moved into the mainstream. Unsurprisingly, this has made gaming peripherals and gadgets hugely popular during the holiday season. But if you’ve scrambled to find the perfect gift for the gamer in their life, you’ve probably encountered a few hefty price tags.
Though gaming is now ubiquitous and mainstream, it remains pricey—from headsets to keyboards to subscription packages. If you’re looking to save a bit without compromising on the quality of your gift, then keep reading for a few suggestions. We’re listing tips that can help you find the perfect surprise for the gamer in your life.
A Question of Hardware
First, let’s specify what type of gamer you’re buying for. As outlined above, casual gaming has made its way into the limelight—but there are tons of game types beyond competitive MOBAs and casual mobile titles. For example, maybe your loved one spends most of their gaming time playing poker.
Poker, though not a traditional video game, is hugely popular worldwide. Millions of players stick to online platforms such as PokerStars because they offer convenience, bonuses, and a variety of games. Gamers like these are more likely to stick to a PC, tablet, or even a mobile device—which means the standard console and handheld console fare won’t do.
The important factor is knowing what hardware your gamer uses, and how often. Poker players aside, the vast majority of gamers stick to either a PC setup or a console like the Xbox or PlayStation. Let’s dive into a few different gift-giving tips that will suit any gamer.
Tip #1 Mini-Gadgets
It’s okay to start small with your gaming gifts. In fact, we recommend staying away from actual techy gifts because most gamers have a specific brand and item in mind—which is usually pretty pricey. Stick to mini-gadgets and items that improve the gaming experience in other ways, such as a lapdesk, which makes gaming more comfortable, or a headphone stand, which could even function as a desk light, too. If you’re feeling frustrated by the clutter surrounding your home’s gaming area, for example, then a gift like a controller and headset organizer is doubly a gift for you, too.
Tip #2 Subscriptions
Subscription packages allow gamers to download and play a number of games each month, usually based on the type of hardware they have. Unsurprisingly, these packages can be very expensive. However, you can always target unique subscriptions such as indie packages like the HumbleBundle or unique items from brands like IndieBox. These gifts can be really memorable for gamers, as they introduce them to titles and new releases that fly under the radar otherwise.
Tip #3 Personalization
Another great idea is to avoid all the pricey hardware and focus on smaller, customized pieces. This could be something like apparel from their favorite game that showcases their favorite character. In fact, these types of gifts can go a long way for gamers who spend a lot of time playing RPGs or other titles with developed characters and storylines. Simply gifting them an item from the game or an item that features their favorite content will mean a lot and show that you’ve invested time in understanding their interests.
Tip #4 Ambiance
Like personalized gifts, focusing on the ambiance of your gamer’s setup can also improve their daily experience. LED lights, for example, are popular for gamers who have a desk or screen dedicated to their gaming sessions. A Star Wars Dark Saber Light, as another example, will mean a lot more to a Star Wars fan than a simple lamp, even though they’re about the same price.
