Try These Gift Ideas for Gamers Instead of Gift Cards

PC Gaming Gifts That You Should Consider

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate

Image made by Game Rant | Source images: Microsoft

While not technically a “gift card” that can be spent in a store, picking up an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription for someone special is a reliable and affordable alternative to picking out something that may not be to the gift recipient’s tastes. With an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription, users have access to titles on Xbox consoles and Windows PCs alike, including crossplay games like Gears of War: Reloaded and Diablo 4. Although Game Pass Ultimate usually costs $30, shoppers can check retailers like Best Buy to see if any discounts are available.

Secretlab Chair and Desk Accessories

While a Secretlab chair would make an outstanding gift for anyone, they come with a hefty price tag of at least $500. Thankfully, some Secretlab accessories make for some good alternatives for someone who already has a Titan Evo chair or Magnus desk. From new chair wheels and lumbar pillows to extra surge protectors and leather wipes, users can peruse Secretlab’s selection of affordable accessories to keep their gaming area in peak condition.

Steam Winter Sale Games

PC gamers love a good Steam sale, especially if some of the best titles on the platform get discounted to tempting prices. Thankfully, the 2025 Steam Winter Sale has plenty of titles for shoppers to consider, and can make a thoughtful gift for a Steam friend or a family member. Some of 2025’s top titles, including the award-winning RPG Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 and the multiplayer sensation ARC Raiders, received some discounts until January 5. Users can also browse Steam’s special deals section to see if there are any games that they can surprise their friends with.

Nintendo Fans Will Love These Presents

Switch and Switch 2 Accessories

Considering that the Switch 2 is arguably the top gadget of 2025, accessories for Nintendo’s latest console should be a reliable option for shoppers looking to get something affordable. A carrying case from brands like RDS is usually available at Walmart and other stores, so users should check to see what’s available at their nearest store location.

Alternatively, a new controller for specific Switch and Switch 2 games could make the ideal gift for someone who likes retro games that can be played via Nintendo Switch Online. Controllers from third-party brands like GameSir and 8BitDo are affordable alternatives to the Switch 2 Pro Controller, which carries a steep $89.99 price tag.

A New microSD Card to Store Games

Although the Switch 2 comes with 256GB of internal system storage, that space can fill up quickly if users are not careful with data management. While the Switch 2 supports expandable storage via microSD Express cards, these cards are likely to get more expensive due to the ongoing RAM crisis. Fortunately, 256GB microSD Express cards from brands like Samsung, Lexar, and Sandisk can be purchased on Amazon in time for Christmas at a discounted price.

Know a PlayStation or Xbox Fan? These Gifts Are Worth Checking Out

Xbox Controller Battery Pack

Image via Microsoft

While the Xbox Wireless Controller utilizes AA batteries efficiently enough, it can get tiring to replace them during the middle of a game. However, Microsoft sells a rechargeable battery pack with a USB-C cable that can reach a full charge in four hours, including during gameplay. Although the battery pack usually goes for approximately $25 at various retailers, the Microsoft Store has discounted it to $17.89 for the holidays. Ergo, the Xbox Rechargeable Battery pack should make for a great stocking stuffer.

Physical PS5 and Xbox Games With Deep Discounts

Of course, one of the most reliable gifts for several decades is a new game to open on Christmas. Digital storefronts like the Xbox Store are hosting countdown events that offer different games at steep discounts. However, shoppers should make a trip to a Walmart retail location to see which PS5 titles or Xbox Series X games are being sold at tempting prices while supplies last.