Christmas shopping is stressful at the best of times. However, picking out the perfect gift for esports lovers doesn’t need to be difficult. Nowadays, there’s an epic selection of suitable gifts for the video game enthusiast in your life. With everything from branded keychains to mechanical keyboards to choose from, you’re not short on options. Below, we showcase 8 of the best Christmas gifts you might want to consider this year.
1. New Gaming Mouse
Fast-paced gaming requires a reliable mouse. A good gaming mouse needs to be accurate, ergonomic and, above all else, durable. Although more expensive than a standard peripheral, you don’t need to break the bank when buying a mouse for a gaming enthusiast. The Glorious Model D is a low-cost, high-performance option. Designed by gamers for gamers, this mouse scores top marks for control, speed, and comfort.
2. Gaming Headsets
A good gaming headset is a must for any esports enthusiast. Allowing for clearer audio and crisp lines of communication, they’re essential for cooperative games like Call of Duty and Counter-Strike: Global Offensive. Looking for something affordable? The Razer Barracuda X is a solid option. With an impressive frequency response and superior surround sound modes, this wireless headset will take online gaming to the next level.
3. Gaming Keyboard
You only have to follow the latest CSGO matches live here to see how important a good keyboard is for a professional gamer. For an esports lover looking to turn their passion for gaming into a career, a reliable keyboard is a must. The SteelSeries Apex 3 makes a superb gift idea. It’s not only affordable but comes loaded with features tailored to gaming. Water-resistant housing protects against spills, while customizable illumination makes it easy to personalize. There’s also a magnetic wrist rest and ergonomic palm support, along with accessible buttons for hassle-free adjustments.
4. Retro Gaming Controllers
We may have entered the ninth generation of gaming consoles, but there’s always a place for retro gaming gifts. Buying for someone who remembers the pixelated heyday of the N46 or PlayStation One? A retro controller will go down a storm. The 8BitDo Pro 2 is an affordable option that strips things back to basics, without sacrificing functionality.
5. Retro Gaming Consoles
More of us than ever are embracing retro tech. If you’re struggling to settle on a
gift for a diehard gamer, think about delving back into the console archives. While many brands offer generic consoles loaded with libraries of 8-bit games, nothing beats an original SNES or SEGA Mega Drive console. You can pick up replica consoles brand-new at budget-friendly prices. However, if you’re looking for the real thing, you’ll need to head to online marketplaces like eBay and prepare for a bidding war.
6. Official Team Merchandise
If you’re buying for someone who follows an esports team, official merchandise makes a superb gift idea. However, be prepared to spend a premium on licensed merch. G2 Esports stocks an impressive range of must-have items, including team jerseys and loungewear. After something more affordable? Keep it simple with branded keychains or Christmas stocking staples like socks and underwear.
7. Game Passes
If you’re shopping for an esports enthusiast, there’s a good chance they’ve already invested in a game pass for their console or title of choice. However, almost every game pass comes with a variety of tiers. Think about purchasing them an upgraded 12-month package to access full gaming libraries and extra features.
8. Christmas Knits and Jumpers
Christmas isn’t Christmas without a garish festive jumper. The good news is that there are plenty of inspired options for packing out stockings and gift bags this year. Looking for licensed products? The likes of Sony stock a wide range of PlayStation jumpers and sweaters. Searching for something specific? Stock up on knits featuring famous gaming icons from the likes of Fortnite, Fallout, and more.
9. A Video Game Account
A video game account is a fantastic gift for someone who loves esports. You can buy them an account for their favorite game or a new game they’ve wanted. For example, a new clash account could give players access to new levels, characters, and gameplay modes and allow them to compete with players worldwide.