26 Gaming Gifts For Gamers 2025

Gaming is one of the most popular aspects of our lives. Considering only a few decades ago, nerds were the only gamers and gaming was not considered that cool. Today, we have young and old gamers from all over the world. Men and women all play games from their phones to their computers and consoles. At DadShop we've collected a bunch of unique gifts that you can buy for gamers, or even yourself. From branded merchandise to cool and hard to find stuff gamers could resonate with.

Last Updated: 9th July 2025

Choosing the perfect gaming gift in 2025 is challenging, as it involves navigating a vast and ever-expanding universe of options. It's not just about grabbing the most popular game or picking the most expensive accessory. Truly impactful gifting comes from a deep understanding of the recipient's gaming habits and preferences. Gift ideas for gamers require a blend of insight into the recipient, a keen awareness of their specific likes and dislikes, and thoughtful consideration of each gift's value to their gaming experience. It balances personalisation and practicality, ensuring the gift surprises and enriches their gaming world.

If you need a comprehensive guide to gifting for gamers, check out our guide.

Understanding the Gamer of 2025

To find the perfect gamer gift in 2025, it helps to know who you're actually buying for. Forget the outdated stereotypes; recent data from the Interactive Games & Entertainment Association (IGEA) reveals that Australian gamers are a diverse and mainstream group. With a staggering 81% of the population playing video games, players are just as likely to be your colleague or parent as they are a teenager.

  • Understanding this new reality is the key to a gift they'll love. Keep these facts in mind:
  • The average gamer is 34 years old, meaning they often appreciate gifts that enhance comfort and quality.
  • The gender split is nearly balanced, with 48% of all players in Australia being women.
  • A remarkable 42% of Australians aged 65 and over are gamers, highlighting gaming as a pastime that transcends age.
  • While consoles and PCs are popular, smartphones are the most widely used gaming devices.
  • Gaming is a social activity for most, with 75% of players gaming with others and 91% of parents playing games to connect with their children.
  • The average daily playtime is 90 minutes, showing that gaming is a regular and integrated part of life.

What Are the Main Types of Gamers?

Understanding that "gamer" is a broad term is the key to a great gift. While every player is unique, they often fall into general categories based on their habits. Identifying their play style makes it much easier to choose a gift they'll truly value.

  • The Casual Gamer: They play to pass the time and relax, often on a smartphone or tablet. Their games are typically easy to learn, like puzzles or simple mobile apps.
    • Gift Idea Context: Consider an App Store or Google Play gift card, a comfortable phone grip, or a portable power bank.
  • The Core or Enthusiast Gamer: This is the most common type of dedicated gamer. They enjoy a wide variety of games on consoles (PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch) or PC and invest regular time into their hobby. They follow news about upcoming releases and value the overall gaming experience.
    • Gift Idea Context: New release games, a quality headset, an ergonomic controller, or a subscription service like Game Pass are excellent choices.
  • The Hardcore or Competitive Gamer: These players are deeply dedicated to one or two specific games, often competitive online titles. They focus on skill, performance, and winning. They invest in high-end equipment to give them a competitive edge.
    • Gift Idea Context: Focus on performance-enhancing gear, such as a high-DPI mouse, a mechanical keyboard, a high-refresh-rate monitor, or premium brand headsets.

Where Does The Gamer Play?

PC Gaming

These individuals appreciate the flexibility and power of PCs, often focusing on high-end graphics and performance. Gifts like high-performance gaming keyboards or the latest mouse can elevate their setup, ensuring they have the best experience.

Video Game Console

Loyal to brands like PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo, console gamers value exclusive titles and the convenience of their systems. Accessories specific to their console, like an Xbox controller. For a more personalised touch, consider a custom neon sign representing their favourite game or console.

Mobile Gamers

With gaming on the go, mobile gamers enjoy a wide range of games, from classic revivals like Game Boy to the latest mobile game hits. Power banks, phone cases, or even a wireless controller designed for mobile games can be thoughtful gifts. For those who enjoy playing games on tablets or phones, a device-specific beanie or a durable mouse pad can enhance their playtime and comfort.

Regardless of their preferred platform, all gamers appreciate gifts that cater to their specific needs and enhance their experience. Whether it's a wireless gaming keyboard for the avid PC gamer, a durable Xbox controller for the console enthusiast, or a sleek headphone stand to keep their setup organised, the best gifts for gamers for 2025 reflect their passion and enhance their lifestyle. Remember, the best gift ideas for gamers are those that consider the recipient's unique gaming habits, offering them an even more immersive and enjoyable gaming experience.

What Does The Gamer Have?

  • Casual vs. Frequent Gamer: Casual gamers may appreciate gifts that enhance their sporadic gaming sessions, such as comfortable gaming chairs or stylish RGB headphones. On the other hand, frequent gamers might benefit more from performance-oriented gifts, such as high-quality headsets or the latest game releases. For those immersed in PC gaming, a cutting-edge keyboard or a wireless mouse could elevate their play to new heights.
  • Gaming Accessories: Knowing what the gamer already owns can guide you towards gifts that complement or enhance their collection. An ergonomic mouse pad or a durable headphone stand could be invaluable additions for PC gamers. Console enthusiasts might appreciate an extra wireless or custom Xbox controller that reflects their style. These can be excellent gifts if they're missing essential accessories, enhancing their gaming setup significantly.
  • Beyond Expensive Gifts: Not all gifts need to break the bank to be cherished. Consider items related to their favourite games, such as collectible figures, themed beanies, or even art prints from their most-loved titles. For instance, a "The Legend of Zelda" fan might love a meticulously crafted replica of Link's Master Sword or a beautifully designed Hyrule map poster. These gaming gift ideas offer a personal touch that resonates with the gamer's interests and passions.

The Novelty & Funny Gaming Gift Approach

The pursuit of the perfect present extends beyond the latest hardware or the most sought-after titles. Sometimes, the key to a gamer's heart lies in the whimsical and the notion. Novelty and funny gifts, such as a game controller-shaped neon sign or a quirky mobile game-themed mug, offer a unique avenue to celebrate the lighter side of gaming culture, providing laughter and joy without breaking the bank. Often more budget-friendly, these gifts can be as memorable and appreciated as their more expensive counterparts.

Why Choose Novelty & Funny Gifts?

  • Uniqueness: These gifts stand out for their creativity and uniqueness, offering something the recipient likely still needs, like a humorous mouse pad or an RGB light-up beanie.
  • Personal Touch: A humorous or novelty gift, such as a neon sign or a beanie featuring game icons, can demonstrate that you understand the recipient's personality and lighter side, making the gift feel more personal.
  • Stress Relief: Gaming can be intense; a funny or quirky gift, such as a gaming-themed mug or a novelty Game Boy-shaped phone case, can offer a welcome moment of fun and stress relief.
  • Budget-Friendly: For those who want to gift something special without the high price tag of gaming hardware, novelty items like a handheld game console-themed keychain or a game controller neon sign are fantastic options.

In selecting the best gifts for gamers, casual or frequent players, it's essential to consider both the practical and the playful. From the latest keyboard to a lighthearted novelty item, each gift holds the potential to significantly enhance their gaming experience or bring a smile to their face, making every session a little brighter.

Ideas for Novelty & Funny Gaming Gifts

  • Themed Mugs: Getting a mug that's themed from a popular game, like a Minecraft mug and sock set can be very novel
  • Funny Gaming Socks: Socks with humorous sayings or designs, like "Do not disturb, I'm gaming", can be a hit.
  • Parody Game Merchandise: T-shirts, hats, or posters that playfully parody popular games or gaming tropes. Or a tee like the evolution of man gaming.
  • Retro Game Coasters: Coasters that mimic the design of classic game cartridges or discs.
  • Custom Gamer Loot Boxes: Create a personalised loot box filled with small gaming-related trinkets, candies, and novelty gaming clocks.
  • Gaming-themed Desk Accessories: Novelty items like a pen holder shaped like a famous game character or a mouse pad with a cheeky design.
  • Themed Jigsaw Puzzles: There are so many great puzzles out there, just like our range of Minecraft puzzles.

Top Gaming Gifts To Consider

Embarking on the quest to find the perfect gift for the ultimate gaming enthusiast is a journey filled with excitement, creativity, and a sprinkle of personalised magic. The key to unlocking a gamer's heart lies in the vast expanses of their interests, from the cutting-edge technology of PC upgrades to the charming nostalgia of old-school gaming collectibles. Each realm is rich with potential treasures, ready to captivate and thrill. As we delve into the diverse world of gaming gifts, let's explore how to hit the bullseye and bring a beaming smile to the gamer in your life.

PC Upgrades and Accessories

The right upgrades and accessories can dramatically elevate a gamer's experience. Imagine the delight of seeing games come to life with a high-end Graphics Card or the satisfaction derived from a Mechanical Keyboard's precise and customisable keystrokes. A Gaming Mouse with high DPI and programmable buttons offers a competitive edge, while SSDs promise lightning-fast load times for seamless gameplay. Adding more RAM enhances multitasking and game performance, and a top-notch Cooling System ensures the gaming rig stays cool under pressure. For the content creator looking to stream on Twitch, adding a USB microphone can significantly enhance their audio quality. Each upgrade is a testament to the thought and care that go into selecting a gift that caters to every dimension of a gamer's passion.

Consoles and Accessories

Stepping into the console arena, the allure of Next-Gen Consoles like the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, or Nintendo Switch offers gamers the latest in cutting-edge entertainment. Custom or special edition Controllers, like those from the Xbox Design Lab, add a personal touch, reflecting the gamer's style and personality. At the same time, Charging Docks provide a convenient and organised solution for keeping game time uninterrupted. For those looking to play games on the go, the Switch Lite is the best handheld option, thanks to its impressive battery life. Accessories like a high-quality Xbox wireless controller or a VR headset if you have the cash.

Accessories and Peripherals

Beyond the core gaming setup, Accessories and Peripherals like Headsets offer crystal-clear audio and voice chat, enhancing the social and immersiveness of playing games. An Ergonomic Gaming Chair supports long sessions comfortably, and a high-quality Mouse Pad, perhaps with a non-slip rubber base, ensures smooth, precise movements. Streaming gear, including webcams, USB microphones, and lighting, for gamers interested in content creation opens the door to sharing their gaming exploits with the world, potentially helping them earn a following. Additionally, gear like a Bluetooth speaker or a small enough organiser for their desk can keep their space functional and thematic.

Merchandise and Collectibles

For gamers who love to showcase their fandom, Merchandise and Collectibles offer a way to bring their favourite virtual worlds into the physical realm. Apparel, such as T-shirts, hoodies, and hats featuring beloved games or characters, allows gamers to wear their passions proudly. High-quality Figurines and Statues, along with Posters or framed Art from favourite game universes, decorate their space with memories and inspirations from their digital adventures. Board Games that adapt popular video game titles provide a fun, offline way to experience gaming narratives and mechanics.

Subscriptions and Gift Cards

Lastly, Subscriptions and Gift Cards open up a world of possibilities, offering access to vast libraries of games, ad-free viewing on platforms like Twitch or YouTube Premium, and the freedom to choose the next great game or in-game content. Gaming Services like Xbox Game Pass, PlayStation Plus, or Nintendo Switch Online extend the gaming experience with online play and exclusive content. At the same time, gift cards for digital storefronts like Steam or the Epic Games Store allow gamers to dive into new worlds at their leisure.

Popular Gaming Genre

  • Action
  • Adventure
  • Role-playing games (RPG)
  • Strategy
  • Simulation
  • Puzzle
  • Horror
  • Sports
  • Fighting
  • Party
  • Open world
  • Survival
  • Battle Royale
  • Sandbox
  • Massively multiplayer online (MMO)

How To Budget For Your Gaming Gift

Finding the right gaming gift within your budget requires a blend of savvy shopping and insight into the world of gaming. Here are key strategies to ensure your gift packs a punch without emptying your wallet:

  • Set a Clear Budget: Start with a firm budget to guide your shopping decisions.
  • Value Perception: Focus on personalised and meaningful gifts, which often hold more value than their price tag suggests.
  • Explore Marketplaces: Look into online marketplaces for gently used gaming hardware and accessories, which can offer significant savings.
  • Compare Prices: Utilise online tools and apps to compare prices across retailers and find the best deals.
  • Timing is Key: Take advantage of sales during holidays or special promotions to stretch your budget further.

Australian Gamer Habits: Spending, Motivations, and Popular Genres

Beyond knowing who gamers are, understanding their behaviours—what they play, why they play, and where they spend their money—is crucial for finding the perfect gift. Recent data from 2024 to 2025 reveal key trends in the AUD $4.4 billion Australian gaming market.

Spending Habits: A Diversifying Digital Market

Player spending is shifting decisively towards digital formats. While traditional retail still accounts for over $1.15 billion, the most significant growth is in mobile gaming ($1.56 billion), digital game purchases, and especially subscription services, which saw a massive 55% increase. Key spending insights include:

  • In-Game Purchases: Nearly a third of Australian gamers (29%) spend money on in-game items.
  • A Note of Caution: It's worth noting that 95% of players have encountered manipulative "dark patterns" in games designed to encourage spending, which can sometimes lead to unintended financial loss.

Core Motivations: The "Why" Behind the Play

Understanding the motivation for playing can directly guide your gift choice. If someone plays for social connection, a multiplayer game is a great fit. If they play for escapism, a rich, single-player story is ideal. The primary drivers for Australian gamers are:

  • Social Connection: Playing with friends and family remains a primary reason to game.
  • Achievement & Competition: The desire to master skills, complete challenges, and climb leaderboards.
  • Escapism & Entertainment: Immersing themselves in new worlds and compelling narratives to unwind and de-stress.
  • Mental Wellbeing: Using games as a tool for relaxation, enjoyment, and managing mental health.

Popular Genres and Titles in Australia

While tastes are broad, several genres consistently top the charts. A gift from one of these categories is often a safe bet:

  • Top-tier genres, including Shooter, Action/Adventure, and Role-Playing Games (RPGs), are dominant, particularly among console and PC players. Titles like God of War and Assassin's Creed are highly popular in these categories.
  • Mobile Favourites: On smartphones, Puzzle and Casual games lead in both downloads and revenue.
  • Local Success Stories: The Australian development scene is thriving, producing notable titles in 2024 such as the adventure game The Plucky Squire and the survival horror CONSCRIPT.