Having trouble finding the perfect gift for the gamer on your Holiday shopping list this year? The Cinelinx crew has you covered with our annual gamers gift guide!
It’s that time of year again when the weather gets cold, and the Christmas decorating/shopping has begun. If you have movie lovers, gamers, or nerds in general, on your shopping list the Cinelinx team is here to help you find the perfect gift with our annual gift guides.
Don’t miss out on our previously released Movie Gift Guide, and be sure to check out our Geek Pick of the Week features for even more ideas. Now, let’s get to the games! Below you’ll find our picks broken down by categories, so you can choose the best game/gift suited to the tastes of whoever you’re shopping for.
Action/Adventure
Darksiders 2: The Deathfinitive Edition Remastered (Jeremy aka Toaster) – The Darksiders franchise created an amazing world with a gripping mythos, and pantheon of characters, but Darksiders 2 was definitely the entry in that series that for me was the most fun to play. With the new remaster that includes graphical improvements, and improvements to frame rate, this remaster is definitely worth the grab for fans of the series
Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown (Jordan) – Given the recent news of the studios’ closure, inclusion of this one feels bittersweet. Nonetheless, Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown is a fantastic return to the franchise. With a story expansion to expand on the fun and a metroidvania style gameplay that encourages multiple runs…this is a pretty great gift option for gamers.
Books for Gamers
Stardew Valley Cookbook
The Art of Star Wars Jedi: Survivor
Exodus: The Archimedes Engine
Play Nice: The Rise, Fall, and Future of Blizzard Entertainment
The Art of The Cuphead Show
Star Wars: Outlaws (Jordan) – Of course I’m going to have some Star Wars on the gift guide, and Ubisoft’s first foray into the galaxy far, far away is more than worthwhile. It’s just a whole lot of fun and allows you to feel like you’re existing in this universe unlike ever before. Some loud malcontents may try and convince you otherwise, but Outlaws is a solid choice under the tree this year.
Sonic X Shadows Generations (SOLEB) – Sonic fans are finally getting some good food. Sonic x Shadows Generations not only gives players a remaster of the 2011 game (Sonic Generations), it offers a new adventure with Shadow. What better way to enjoy more after seeing Sonic the Hedgehog 3 in theaters, than to unwrap a (great) new Sonic game afterwards?
As I said in my review, Sonic X Shadow Generations is a great action adventure title that brings not just a great story and graphics, but fast-paced gameplay, amazing music, and tons of gaming content! With the holidays right around the corner this is the perfect addition to any Holiday gifting list and one of the best Action Adventure titles of 2024!
Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster (SOLEB) – After years waiting, Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster has hit store shelves and is a stellar experience from start to finish. From the music, story, comedic touch, and of course zombie killing action, Capcom has yet again hit it out of the park. This is a must buy for any action game fan!
Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden (Becky) – I still maintain this is one of the best and most underrated games to come out this year, all the more reason to check out Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden during the holidays. The mystery of what is happening in the colony of New Eden will quickly draw you in, all the way to the bitter end.
Another Crab’s Treasure (Ryan) – As a major Dark Souls aficionado, Another Crab’s Treasure was always on my radar. After playing it, it immediately became one of my favorite games of all time. ACT features “soulslike” combat mixed with intricate and responsive platforming, as well as a deeply moving storyline and a host of accessibility options to make sure everyone gets to see it through.
RPGs
Dragon Age: The Veilguard (Jordan)– The highly anticipated return to Thedas is not only an impressive outing for the Dragon Age franchise, but a solid return to form for Bioware in general. With compelling story choices and characters to encounter, any RPG fan would love to get this as a gift (if they don’t already have it).
Dragon’s Dogma 2 (Dustin) – There are a few games that get me totally intertwined in its universe to a point where I’m thinking about it all day. Dragon’s Dogma 2 was that game this year for me. I spent countless hours exploring and doing quests, and everything about it has a story driven aspect behind it. The way you can miss quests as the world changes based on what you deem a priority is fascinating, and the enemy encounters are thrilling. The only thing that would make it better is having a second player. (Available physically)
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth (Jordan) – The Final Fantasy VII remake continued in the second chapter with Rebirth…and it was amazing. Taking the gameplay far beyond what we got in the previous entry, Rebirth opens up the world in a number of thrilling ways, with great sidequests, fun minigames, and character moments that are hard to top.
Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical (Becky) – Ever wanted to take part in a musical where you’re the star? Have I got the game for you! While it isn’t exactly new, there was a new DLC for the game released earlier this year that lets players take over the role of Orpheus after the original story concludes and it is loaded with even more songs and amazing content.
Baldur’s Gate 3 (Jeremy aka Toaster) – This game is an absolute must have for any RPG fan. Larian studios took Dungeons and Dragons, and painstakingly crafted a video game around. A riveting story, amazing acting, and the amazing level of detail that Larian poured into this game show from the start. Adding to the mix, Larian has introduced native mod support for the game, allowing DnD fans’ imaginations to run wild.
Bloomtown: A Different Story (Katy) – A compelling mysterious RPG from the creators of Graveyard Keeper that is absolutely worth the buy for the RPG lover in your life. The turn-based combat, demon-tamer where you uncover the unseemly and unsettling things rattling the underbelly of the seemingly pleasant 1960s town.
Dragon Question III HD-2D Remake (Jordan) – Though it technically hasn’t launched at the time of this guide being published, I suspect a remake (that looks stunning by the way) of one of the best RPGs around is going to be pretty good. A lot of gamers haven’t had a chance to play this one which makes it an ideal choice for the season.
Mario & Luigi: Brothership (Jordan) – If you’ve never had a chance to enjoy the sheer RPG fun of the Mario & Luigi games (originally for the GameBoy Advance/3DS systems), don’t hesitate to jump on Brothership. Bringing the franchise to the larger console for the first time, it still brings all the fun and whimsy fans have come to expect. A great return for fans, while also serving as a solid entry point: ideal gift-giving potential!
Casual/Co-Op Games
Last Time I Saw You (Becky) – The debut game from Maboroshi Artworks is a joy to experience. It has elements of a platformer but it’s mostly a relaxed game that can be taken at your own pace. The story, though, is something that everyone needs to experience, as it is a tale that will stick with you long after the credits roll.
Jackbox Games (Katy) – Spice up your party hosting (or up your party-going game) with the many Jackbox Games Park Packs that are available. The game allows players to connect via phones so anyone can play!
UFO 50 (Ryan) – Can’t decide what game to get your retro-loving friend? Give them every single one with UFO 50! There are 50 retro-style minigames, some of which are robust enough to be entire full games on their own. With single-player, co-op and competitive options, there’s something for everyone in UFO 50.
Vampire Survivors (Jeremy aka Toaster) – This game is the most fun you’re going to have with one thumbstick. Period. This game is chock full of nods to all of our NES favs, and current social games. Recent DLCs have introduced characters from Among Us, and Contra, and the just recently announced Ode to Castlevania promises to bring a whole new pack of characters inspired by the game that Vampire Survivors itself was inspired by.
New World: Aeternum (Dustin and SOLEB) – I’m adding this game since it just released on consoles, and it’s probably the best console port any game has seen. It works flawlessly on consoles, and it created a whole new crowd. But more importantly is basically what I wanted from Dragon’s Dogma, a vast open world filled with things to do … .with a partner. Being able to explore and dive into the extremely in-depth gameplay with a friend or spouse puts this game in a new market for console fans.
SOLEB – I agree with Dustin here! New World Aeternum is a vast Action Adventure MMO that gives you so much to play right out the box. As our review stated, it’s an action RPG MMO that takes players on the journey of a lifetime. Though I am not a traditional MMO player, New World: Aeternum has won me over.
With a new life on console, breathtaking visuals, smooth gameplay mechanics, and tons of content for player, this is a great experience for all players. New World: Aeternum is my new addiction and one of my favorite RPG’s of the year!
Gaming Stocking-Stuffers
Another Crab’s Treasure Kril Plushie
Kirby Car Mouth 8” Plush
Foxhound Pin Set
Finger Chopsticks for Gamers
Legend of Zelda: UNO
Indika (Dustin) – This is an extremely casual game as you’ll likely to beat it in one sitting, but it’s seriously a game that I didn’t think would impact me as much as it did. It does an incredible job of storytelling in a way to make you keep thinking about it for days on end. I’ve already gone through and played it dozens of times, and the best part is physical copies are available too.
MADiSON VR (Dustin) – Yeah I’m adding horror to the holidays again, who do you think I am? But honestly MADiSON was already scary to play normally, and the VR version…. Yeah no other game has made me remove the headset to breathe…Am I saying it’ll be fun to see a loved one crap their pants for the holiday? Maybe.
Arcade1Up Pac-Man Deluxe (Jordan) – I’ve always loved the Arcade1Up cabinets and if you haven’t gotten your hands on one, these make for some phenomenal gifts. On top of fleshing out a game room, they allow you to enjoy some classics in a modern way you otherwise couldn’t. Their newest release this Fall is the PAC-MAN Deluxe cabinet with retro styling. Really, though, you can’t go wrong with any of their available choices.
FEAR THE SPOTLIGHT (SOLEB) – Sunnyside High has a dark history. When Vivian enters the deserted corridors for a seance with the rebellious Amy, she suddenly ends up alone, and at the mercy of the monster who wanders the halls. Vivian must avoid its gaze, find her friend, and uncover the disturbing, murderous truth of a decades old tragedy.
Fear the Spotlight is a creepy love letter to classic 90s horror experiences with a focus of rich storytelling, puzzle solving, and a tense atmosphere. This is a perfect narrative horror game for those new to the genre.
As we said in our review, Fear the Spotlight is a fantastic return to horror games of the past. With brilliant visuals, great gameplay, and a twisted story, Fear the Spotlight is a great game to play the Halloween season and one of our favorite indie games of the year!
Sports, Strategy, and Sim
Mortal Kombat 1: Khaos Reigns Kollection (Jordan and S0leb) – The Khaos Reigns expansion for Mortal Kombat 1 has practically given fans an all new game to enjoy. With a new story and oodles of additional fighters to play around with, if you’ve got a fighting game fan on the shopping list, this is a great pick.
SOLEB – As I mentioned in my review, Mortal Kombat 1: Khaos Reigns is a great expansion of Mortal Kombat 1, but what hold its back from being perfect is its short story expansion. Though the story is short, it is still hands-down one of the best fighters on the market and a must buy for any Mortal Kombat Fan.
Homeworld 3 (Jordan) – Homeworld 3 finally launched this year and it’s an amazing return to the franchise. Packed with all the RTS/strategy goodness you could hope for, with a dash of Sci-Fi epic story to boot. There’s a reason this franchise is so revered.
WWE 2K24 – 2K has been knocking it out of the park with their return to WWE, and 2K24 sits as the highest rated in the franchise so far. As such, any wrestling/fighting game fan on your shopping list who may not have snagged it already, would be happy to unwrap this one. Especially with all the DLC out for it now.
Dave the Diver (Katy) – Dave the Diver is a wonderful mix of management simulation and adventure with roguelike elements. The characters and story are compelling, the core gameplay loop is addicting, and the ocean is always waiting. On PC, PlayStation and Nintendo Switch.
NHL 25 (Dustin) – NHL 25 did something fantastic, and yet something so simplistic, by slowing down gameplay dramatically. Fans of previous iterations might need some time to adapt to the slowed gameplay, but overall it creates a way better game. Watching plays actually develop and utilize the whole ice is fascinating, and the new AI collisions allow plays to organically create themselves. It’s a generational step in the right direction. (Available physically)
Dragon Ball Sparking! ZERO (SOLEB) – Sparking ZERO is a heart-felt culmination of all the best Dragon Ball experiences from the last thirty years. Though the game can be very difficult at times, DBSZ stands on its own with some of the best gameplay and graphical presentation we have seen in recent years. This is the best Dragon Ball game I have played and a front runner for Game of the Year!
Metal Slug Tactics (Jordan) – Combining turn-based strategy with Metal Slug (better known for its running and shooting style gameplay) may have seemed like a strange choice when initially revealed, but the result is a ridiculous amount of fun. In a season packed with major gaming releases, don’t let this slip through the cracks.
Accessories and Collectibles
Stardew Valley Board Game (Katy) – An obvious win if you can get your hands on this board game for the Stardew Valley fan in your life. Up to four players.
Video Game Championship Board Game (Jordan) – This tabletop card game takes players back to the world of the 90s in gaming…and just looks really neat. It launched just last month, with the first pre-orders going out on October 31st, which makes it a fresh pick for gift giving this holiday season.
Jada Toys’ Street Fighter II Line of Figures – Fans of Street Fighter and toy collectors in general have some great options this holiday season thanks to Jada Toys’ newest line-up of figures based on the arcade classic. Coming in at the six-inch scale (my personal favorite for figures) with tons of articulation, there are several fan-favorite fighters to choose from. Even better at only $25, you’re not breaking the bank and getting some good play action to go with it!
Quick Pick Games
Visions of Mana
Grunn
Horizon Zero Dawn – Remastered
Tomb Raider Remaster Collection I-III
The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom
Legacy of Kain Diorama – Dark Horse Direct’s latest gaming collectibles brings the iconic Legacy of Kain characters to bold life on your shelves. These are actually two independent statues that can be put together to form a diorama, meaning you have options in gift giving (though bundling together makes it about $40 cheaper). Technically speaking, these won’t ship until after the New Year, but I don’t think any gaming fan will be mad about seeing a pre-order slip under the tree this year.
SteelSeries Arctis Gamebuds (Jordan) – The SteelSeries Arctis gaming headsets are still among my favorites, but now they’ve stepped into the earbud market and I have no doubt they’ve brought the goods from this line to it. Personally, I’m more into earbuds than full headsets (just easier and less cumbersome), so I’m thrilled to see more dedicated gaming options popping up. Definitely something for like-minded gamers to add to their lists.
Diablo IV Soundtrack 4 LP set – (Toaster) – The music of Diablo has always been amazing. From hauntingly beautiful layered guitar tracks, to the foreboding orchestral swells accompanying boss fights the music of the Diablo franchise has always helped make the game a more immersive experience. The music of Diablo IV is no different, and available on vinyl for that lp lover on your holiday list.
World of Warcraft: Burning Crusade 2xLP (Jordan) – iam8bit continually releases great soundtracks for video games, and among their newest this holiday season is pulls from World of Warcraft: The Burning Crusade. If that’s not enough for you, they also have a new World of Warcraft Classic collection on vinyl along with a repressing of World of Warcraft: Wrath of the Lich King.
Metal Gear Solid Oranges Box Replica (Dustin) – You think I’m going to do a holiday list and not include something for Metal Gear? No. This is really neat for the diehard Metal Gear fans since pretty much everyone else is going to wonder what the hell it is. It’s also limited to 2001 units, you know the same year MGS2 released. It’s really neat and authentic for showing you know and care about someone’s interest in Metal Gear.
There’s really no shortage of great gaming options for gift giving, but these are the things no our personal wishlists. Hopefully this will help narrow your own shopping down this holiday season!
