GAmmar can be a challenge to shop for. Many gamers opt for digital purchases from platforms like Steam, Xbox, Nintendo, or PlayStation’s online stores, meaning grabbing the latest Call of Duty isn’t as straightforward as it seems. Fortunately, there are a variety of practical accessories and enjoyable lifestyle gifts, as gamers often have diverse interests that complement their gaming hobby.
So, for the gamers in your life, regardless of age, here’s a selection curated by Guardian games writers. We kick things off with Lego…
adult
game boy lego
£54.99 at Lego
£44.99 on Amazon
This is a near 1:1 replica of the original Game Boy, featuring a buildable cartridge that plugs into the back and a stand for display. An absolute dream for retro gamers.
luxury video game books
The market for adult video game books is rapidly expanding, with companies like Tune & Fairweather and lost in a cult producing beautiful, high-quality works featuring deep dives into titles like Elden Ring (featured) and The Outer Wilds, as well as historical guides to classic consoles. If you know their favorite game, there’s likely an exquisite book dedicated to it.
Arzopa Z1FC Portable Gaming Monitor
£89.99 on Amazon
Weighing in at only a few pounds, this 16.1-inch display is perfect for handheld consoles like the Nintendo Switch and Steam Deck, enabling a grander screen experience on the go. Crisp, vibrant images and a 144Hz refresh rate keep up with fast-paced gaming.
clothing for coins
For 15 years, insert coin has specialized in high-quality clothing inspired by both new and classic games. Recent offerings include a stylish Resident Evil 4 bomber jacket (featured), a Persona 5 blazer, a Cyberpunk 2077 beanie, and much more.
Vinyl Soundtrack Album (£35+)
For those who enjoy both video games and vinyl, numerous labels are producing high-quality, beautifully designed soundtrack albums. Check out titles from Laced Records featuring compilations from Doom, Zelda, and Hellblade, along with others from Data Discs, IAm8bit, and Black Screen for a selection including both new and retro audio tracks.
anime blu ray special edition
£29.99 at HMV
Anime has significantly influenced video game development, hence the player in your life might appreciate classics like Metal Gear Solid and Silent Hill. There are exquisite new Blu-ray releases available of iconic animated films such as Perfect Blue and Ghost in the Shell (shown), found at HMV, Amazon, and more. You can also opt for Akira, Mobile Suit Gundam, or Neon Genesis Evangelion.
board games based on video games
£86.99 at Zatu Games
£79.99 on Amazon
Invite gamers to abandon screens for a few hours with a board game inspired by video games. *Slay the Spire* offers an insightful twist on collectible card strategy, and for nostalgia, there’s the Pac-Man themed edition of *Quoridor*, which is quite classy.
cook and Becker art print
$135 at Cook & Becker
Cook and Becker collaborates with artists and game developers to sell exceptionally crafted prints inspired by various titles, from Astro Bot to World of Warcraft. The featured concept art of the ghosts of Mt. Yotei is particularly stunning.
kids and teens
Power A controller
£19.99 at Currys
£19.99 on Amazon
Having a spare controller is a wise move for those gatherings with friends. PowerA offers sturdy and basic controllers for Xbox, Switch, and PC that serve their purpose well, particularly the Advantage controller for Switch 2 (featured).
oh my video game sticker poster
€11.83 at Ohmy
£22.31 on Amazon
This chic poster is accompanied by various colorful stickers, each denoting a specific location on the artwork, inspired by nostalgic arcade games. Adorable and perfect for a young gamer’s bedroom decor. Available from Oh my and other UK retailers.
super micro game
£19.95 at Games Collection
£19.99 at Argos
This retro experience is portable, with the super micro range, a series of diminutive handhelds small enough for keychain attachment. Options include Asteroids, Centipede, Burger Time (each with two additional games), or the iconic Space Invaders.
Dungeons & Dragons: Heroes of Borderlands Starter Set
£45 at Hobbycraft
£42.99 on Amazon
Ideal for newcomers to D&D, this new standalone set includes a comprehensive guide for dungeon masters and players, plus dice, character sheets, and pre-designed quests.
Minecraft Chess Set
£56.99 at Robert Diaz
£61.99 on Amazon
Encourage your favorite gamer to set aside their controller for a game of chess themed around Minecraft. In this setup, villagers engage in combat against vines on a lush green chessboard, although they can’t create massive fortifications or lay TNT traps.
Raspberry Pi 400 computer kit
£76.80 at The Pi Hut
£97.91 on Amazon
For those keen on learning to code or experimenting with computers, the Raspberry Pi 400 is a compact computer equipped with a built-in keyboard. Running Raspberry Pi OS, it comes complete with all essentials, including mouse, cables, Wi-Fi support, and a beginner’s guide. Additionally, it features a 40-pin GPIO header for possible connections to other electronics projects, or even more powerful units like the Raspberry Pi 500, priced at £96.
Turtle Beach Atlas 200 Headset
£49.99 at Argos
£49.99 on Amazon
Gamers need dependable headsets, but they don’t have to break the bank. The new Turtle Beach Atlas 200 for consoles and PC is a lightweight, comfortable option providing immersive sound quality. Alternatively, consider the Razer Barracuda X (£70), which is among the top wireless headsets priced under £100.
The Legend of Zelda Bokoblin Chest Light
£16.99 at HMV
£11.29 on Amazon
Fans of Zelda will recognize the Bokoblin treasure chests scattered throughout Hyrule, offering invaluable loot. This officially licensed version features somewhat eerie glowing eyes and plays the classic Bokoblin tune upon opening.
Source: www.theguardian.com
