The essential Christmas gaming gift guide – the year’s best titles and gadgets
This is the ultimate festive list for any gamer
Christmas is coming.
We all know finding the right presents can be a mammoth task. That's why we have compiled every conceivable gift that your game-savvy family and friends could ever want.
The list includes bargain games, the latest deals on hardware and geeky accessories as well as the year's best titles.
Let's kick off with the new kids on the block.
New games
Spyro: Re-ignited Trilogy (Xbox, PS4 and PC)
It's been 20 years since Spyro first landed on the PlayStation 1 - but he's aged very well indeed.
Developer Toys for Bob have taken the helm from Insomniac to give the purple dragon a much-needed visual update, thanks to Unreal 4.
Gameplay wise, it's very much true to the original. In fact, the layout of the levels remains the same as the classic games.
While this works a treat for Spyro 3, some may find the first game's levels rather simplistic. Still, if you're after a true blast of nostalgia, look no further.
You can buy the on Amazon here!
God of War (PS4)
Arguably the PS4's finest game to date.
Sony Santa Monica went back to the drawing board to create an unforgettable adventure exploring the relationship between Kratos and his Son, Atreus.
Combat was redesigned, with the camera now from an over-the-shoulder perspective, but remains as brutal as ever.
Unforgettable boss fights - with one of the best served up early on - makes this a tour-de-force in gameplay and level design.
A masterpiece and must-have for any PS4 player - over the age of 18, that is.
You can buy on Amazon here!
Shadow of the Colossus (PS4)
One of the highest-scoring games ever made had a full remaster at the start of the year - losing nothing about what made the 2006 version so special.
Boasting stunning visuals - and a horse that's so realistic it puts Red Dead Redemption 2's to shame, you'll be drawn into a magical world by enchanting visuals that'll take your breath away.
Stunning camera work (which, sadly, is prone to the odd glitch) helps add to the cinematic feel. While boss fights are every bit as epic as you remember.
If you haven't played the original, you're in for a treat. If you have, pick it up again.
You can buy on Amazon here!
Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 (PS4, Xbox and PC)
COD veered in a very different direction this year, scrapping campaign and focusing on multiplayer and Zombies.
It was a gamble that really paid off - especially thanks to the brilliant Blackout Mode (a battle-royale shootout).
If you're getting bored of Fortnite and don't fancy shelling out for the unpolished PUBG, this year's COD is a must.
You can buy on Amazon here!
Pokemon Let's Go (Nintendo Switch)
Just over 20 years after the original Pokemon Yellow was released on the Game Boy, Pokemon Let's Go Pikachu and Eevee versions have been released.
Both versions of the game are directly based off of Pokemon Yellow and are a blast from the past for those fans who may be feeling nostalgic.
Likewise, the game is great for Switch gamers who may be new to the Pokemon franchise, or returning after some time out, as the game uses simple mechanics, brilliant humour and a streamlined battle/levelling system that doesn't get boring.
If you are looking for a game you can play for hours literally 'on the go', this one is for you.
You can buy on Amazon here!
Arca's Path (PSVR and other VR platforms)
A different sort of VR experience in the ever-improving PSVR library of games.
Tricked by a wicked android witch, you must seek a path home and escape the simulated world of Arca.
The lead character is, essentially, a ball - and you'r tasked with leading it through beautiful, winding labyrinth.
Here's the twist - there's no controller - everything is controlled by your head.
Ride 3 (PS4, Xbox, PC)
Ride 3 is set to deliver the greatest two-wheeled gaming experience to fans ever.
Unlike other racing games, Ride 3 strives to immerse players into the game, through realistic AI patterns, a detailed environment and more than 230 usable bikes at launch.
Since adopting Unreal Engine the aesthetic quality of developer Milestone's games has vastly improved. And Ride 3 is no exception.
The Italian company has put a huge amount of time into recreating world famous roads and tracks in-game - and the new engine really helps them feel more lifelike than ever.
You can buy on Amazon here!
NBA2k19 (Xbox, PS4 and PC)
FIFA isn't the only sports game you should have on your festive radar.
NBA2K is back and better than ever in this year's instalment - boasting stunning graphics and a plethora of online modes.
MyCareer is the nearest thing to becoming a professional basketball player without joining the NBA - documenting the rise of a talented athlete from rookie to pro.
When it comes to player likeness, 2K does not mess around. In fact, EA could learn a few things here.
Add to the mix a fun online playground called The Neighbourhood, and you've got a very compelling package.
Civilisation VI (Switch port)
Civilization VI is a turn-based strategy game in which players compete alongside computer-controlled AI opponents to grow their individual civilization from a small tribe to control of the entire planet across several periods of time.
The game went down as a massive success on the PC, and has had glowing reviews since its release on the Nintendo Switch this month.
If you are into strategy games that can keep you occupied for hours then this is your 2018 game of the year.
You can buy on Amazon here!
Gran Turismo Sport (PS4 exclusive)
Even though GT came out last year, it's still arguably the PS4's finest racer.
The level of detail is astonishing. It may not feature a dynamic day-night cycle, like Forza 7 or Project Cars, but Polyphony Digital has arguably the most impressively-detailed vehicles.
Lighting is almost photorealistic as it bounces off the paint, while interiors have been recreated with pin-point precision.
Both Project Cars 2 and Forza 7 offer sublime racing experiences - but GT Sport blends the best of both.
The result is an incredibly user-friendly experience that can be customised to suit your ability.
You can buy on Amazon here!
Starlink: Battle for Atlas (PS4, Xbox and Nintendo Switch)
Starfox is back along with a whole host of returning and new faces in Starlink: Battle for Atlas.
The game is a third-person action adventure game where you can craft your own starship loadout from your arsenal of wings, hulls, weapons and pilots.
Experimentation with your loadout is essential and can be done in real-time as you play with modular toys that plug directly into your controller mount.
It's the perfect game for fans of the sprightly space fox, or as a present for younger members of the family who are looking for both a video game and real life toys.
Opt for the Nintendo Switch version if you can - it's crammed with exclusive Star Fox content.
You can buy on Amazon here!
Wordhunters (Playlink for PS4)
A game that's perfect for the whole family - and a change from the usual board games on Boxing Day.
This charming title sees you travel via retro aeroplane to some of the world's most famous cities, taking on mini word games.
There are 15 in total, so there's plenty of variation - and with drop in /out multiplayer, it's perfect for late comers to the party.
WWE2K19 (PS4, Xbox and PC)
If you have ever played any of the old school WWE games, it is 100 per cent worth checking out WWE 2K19
The genre has evolved to be so much more than chair bashing, cage-rattling super moves (although there's still plenty of that).
Unlike in previous titles, the customisation isn't as restrictive in WWE 2K19.
You can create a multitude of different things in-game including arenas, videos for your entrances, championships and, of course, your own WWE Superstars. It's almost endless.
Battlefield V (PS4, Xbox and PC)
If linear Team Deathmatch shootouts are your thing then may want to look elsewhere. Battlefield is all about large-scale warfare, with up to 64 players battling it out at once.
There are eight maps available at launch, with more promised as times goes on - but they're diverse enough to stave off monotony.
Maps range from Twisted Steel - which features a giant bridge - to Rotterdam, which lends itself to shootouts in burnt-out buildings.
We'll have to wait until March for Firestorm, DICE's take on the Battle Royale genre.
But unlike COD, Battlefield V offers a fully-fleshed out single player - in the form of War Stories. There's limited replayability, bar the odd achievement challenges, but if anything, War Stories are a great introduction to core mechanics for those new to the series.
Far Cry 5 (PS4, Xbox and PC)
Far Cry has always sought to deliver a 'fish-out-of-water' experience for the gamer.
Ubisoft plonk you in a world, often with just the most basic skills to survive, and send you on a revenge mission.
It's a formula that works and, although it feels familiar, still hasn't lost any of its charm.
How you play the game is up to you. Fancy just exploring the map on a quad-bike or a spot of fishing? Go right ahead.
Just pack a machine gun for good measure.
Hitman 2 (PS4, Xbox and PC)
Rather than go back to the drawing board, developer IO Interactive has revamped the 2016 formula to offer more freedom than ever before.
As well as larger play areas, offering multiple ways to take down targets, there are a host of smaller details that drastically affect the way you play.
For one, mirrors are now functional, meaning that NPCs will now see you sneak up on them. You can blend into crowds to lose pursuers, while CCTV has also been beefed up.
If you already own 2016's Hitman, all the little details - such as the improved mirrors - will automatically be updated in game, so it's the perfect excuse to dust off the Silverballers.
Spider-Man (PS4 exclusive)
With great power, comes great responsibility.
So you can imagine the pressure Insomniac was under when they were tasked with developing a Spider-Man game.
Thankfully, from the jaw-dropping opening sequence to the beautifully recreated New York City - it's clear they were the right team for the job.
Within seconds of booting up the story mode you'll be thrust into the Spider-suit, swinging from building to building.
Obviously, Spider-Man's web abilities play a huge part in the game's combat system - which is far deeper than we imagined.
The entire city is available to explore from the start - so why not go check out Stark Tower? Or, if you want to chill, take a stroll around Central Park.
Great games you need to play for a great price!
Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice (PS4, Xbox and PC)
Hands down one of the standout games of the past decade.
Developed by British team Ninja Theory (best known for Devil May Cry), you play as Senua, who ventures to the Underworld in search of her dead lover.
With striking visuals and a hard-hitting story that explores mental health, you'll be drawn into the dark world until you reach the jaw-dropping conclusion.
Absolutely essential - and best enjoyed on PS4 Pro with headphones. Also available on Xbox and PC.
You can buy on Amazon here!
The Witcher 3 Game of the Year Edition (PS4, Xbox and PC)
Easily one of the best games of all time, The Witcher 3 is beloved by millions of fans across the world.
CD Projekt Red the developers behind the highly anticipated Cyberpunk 2077, outdid themselves when they released The Witcher 3 in 2015.
Not only did this game win game of the year in 2015, but the DLC 'Blood and Wine' also received an award for Best Role-Playing Game in 2016.
If you haven't played this epic open-world RPG adventure game yet, then it's about time you did
You can buy on Amazon here!
Fishing Sim World (Xbox, PS4 and PC)
If you've played Far Cry 5, Red Dead or The Legend of Zelda you'll know the simple pleasure of reeling in a trophy fish.
Thankfully, FSW is completely devoted to fishing - and lets you visit some of the world's finest lakes.
"We wanted to be in a situation where you can fish at any point and at any time," said Mark Greenway, Business Director at Dove Tail Games.
There are four different tournaments in this game. These range from the Bass Tour, which is about catching the five biggest fish you can catch in a certain period of time to The Predator Tour, where it's about the length of fish combined.
It's the reel deal.
You can buy on Amazon here!
Hardware
Hyperkin Duke controller for Xbox One
Try a blast from the past with this original Xbox-style controller for Xbox One and Windows 10.
With an animated logo display screen and a 3.5mm headset jack, this controller is perfect for gamers wanting something a bit different when playing Xbox One games (or for those with abnormally large hands).
Although bulky, the Duke controller is comfortable to hold and perfect when you are playing backwards compatible Xbox titles like 'Knights of the Old Republic' and the 'original Fable'.
The controller comes in both green and black and is a great collector's item.
You can buy the Hyperkin Duke controller for £58.97 on !
PlayStation Classic
The PlayStation is arguably one of the most important consoles ever created.
Now, gamers can own their very own slice of history with the new PlayStation Classic - a modern-day take on the 1994 masterpiece.
The PS Classic comes bundled with 20 top games (more on this later), two classic controllers and is small enough to hold in one hand.
Under the bonnet, the Classic rocks an entry-level ARM Cortex A35 quad-core cluster with an integrated PowerVR GE8300 GPU and 1GB of DDR3 memory.
Add to the mix 16GB of flash storage (which replaces the old memory card) and it trumps the original PlayStation in every possible way.
The full list of classic titles is below:
- Battle Arena Toshinden™
- Cool Boarders 2
- Destruction Derby
- Final Fantasy VII
- Grand Theft Auto
- Intelligent Qube
- Jumping Flash
- Metal Gear Solid
- Mr Driller
- Oddworld: Abe's Oddysee®
- Rayman
- Resident Evil™ Director's Cut
- Revelations: Persona
- Ridge Racer Type 4
- Super Puzzle Fighter II Turbo®
- Syphon Filter
- Tekken 3
- Tom Clancy’s Rainbow 6
- Twisted Metal
- Wild Arms
Considering one for Christmas? Check out the full reveal trailer below!
You can buy the on Amazon here!
Turtle Beach Elite Pro 2 headset
This is the most expensive headset that Turtle Beach has to offer for PS4, Xbox and PC players.
It comes with a super amp that is connected via USB to your console and can be connected via Bluetooth to your phone.
An app allows you to control your settings VERY specifically, tailoring your sound experience to the game you are playing.
A really useful feature is it also allows you to take phone calls and listen to music while playing games.
The headphones themselves are excellent quality, very flexible and have adjustable ear paddings for gamers with glasses.
Although the volume can be a little quiet at times, if you are looking for a top of the range headset this is the one for you.
You can buy the on Amazon here!
Samsung N950 Soundbar
Searing for the best surround sound money can buy for those all important single player games?
Well, look no further.
The Samsung N950 Cinematic Wireless Smart Soundbar is better than anything else you will find on the market.
The speakers sound absolutely brilliant and are very easy to set up, they also feel durable and could withstand an earthquake.
Playing Red Dead Redemption 2 with them made us feel as though we were in the wild west, especially when travelling through populated cities such as Saint-Denis.
The price is high but they are worth checking out.
You can buy the from the Samsung website!
Xbox Games Pass
Think Netflix for games.
This subscription-based service gives you access to 100's of titles including PES 2019, Mortal Kombat X and the brilliant Forza Horizon 4.
You can currently buy a as part of the Christmas sale.
You can also get the first month of your Xbox Games Pass for just £1 if you haven't used the service before.
Accessories
PlayStation reversible Jacket
If you are looking to kit yourself out in the finest gaming apparel the internet has to offer then this PlayStation jacket may be for you.
InsertCoin, well known for fashionable yet geeky gaming clothing, has launched a limited edition PlayStation reversible Jacket with the original PS1 logo for that classic look.
Officially licensed by Sony, the quality of the jacket is second to none and will be sure to turn heads in the street.
You can even couple it with the classic PS trucker hat to really show your support for the brand.
You can buy the and for £90.00 and £15.00 respectively from Insert Coin Clothing's website!
RIUTBAG R15.3 - Pickpocket proof bag
This bag is specifically designed to prevent pickpocketing.
It has a zipped double laptop compartment that can hold laptops up to 15 inches.
Crucially, it is built to fit within airline carry-on restrictions and to get you through airport security fast.
It also features mesh organisers to store tech accessories such as tablets and game consoles.
If you commute, or travel a lot and are constantly worried about the safety of your items, this bag is perfect for you.
With the zips hidden against your back, no one is nicking your Nintendo Switch.
You can buy the on their website here!
Portable charger for the Switch
The ultimate accessory for non-stop gaming fun on the Nintendo Switch has arrived - S-Charge.
Incorporating a high capacity battery, improved kickstand and two game card slots, the S-Charge is an extension to your existing device that easily clasps around it.
Aiming to limit the number of accessories when on the move, the S-Charge is portable, slim-line and lightweight and can not only charge the Nintendo but also other devices.
Here is how the Switch performs when playing the most popular games:
- The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild: 10 hours 40mins
- Mario Kart 8: 10 hours 45 mins
- Mario Odessey: 10 hours 55mins
- Diablo: 11 hours 20mins
- Splatoon 2: 10 hours 15mins
- Fortnite: 10 hours 35 mins
You can buy the on Amazon here!