Top Picks for Every Type of Gamer on Your Holiday List
With Christmas 2025 fast approaching, it’s time to start thinking about gifts—and if you’re shopping for a gamer, you’re in luck. This year has delivered an incredible lineup of games across all genres and platforms. Whether you’re buying for a casual player, a hardcore fan, a kid, or even yourself, there’s a game worth wrapping up and putting under the tree.
Here’s our curated list of the best video games to buy for Christmas 2025, broken down by category to help you find the perfect gift.
Top All-Around Picks (for Most Gamers)
Black Myth: Wukong
Platforms: PlayStation 5, PC, and coming to Xbox Series X/S on August 20, 2025
A beautifully crafted action RPG steeped in Chinese mythology. With challenging combat, stunning visuals, and an immersive story, it’s a must-play for fans of Elden Ring or God of War.
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
Platform: PlayStation 5
Still one of the best superhero games out there. Swinging across New York City as both Peter Parker and Miles Morales never gets old. Great for teens and adults alike.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III (2025 Edition)
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC
COD returns with tighter multiplayer, a bombastic campaign, and a revamped zombies mode. A solid pick for competitive or co-op players.
Marvel’s Wolverine
Platforms: PlayStation 5
Marvel’s Wolverine is a standalone entry in the Marvel’s Spider-Man series, telling an original, self-contained story that shares continuity with Insomniac Games’ other Marvel titles.
Best Family-Friendly Games
Super Mario Wonder
Platform: Nintendo Switch
A vibrant, imaginative 2D Mario game full of surprises. Perfect for younger players and families who enjoy couch co-op.
Lego Fortnite
Platforms: All major consoles and PC
Combining sandbox creativity with LEGO charm and Fortnite’s polish, this game is a kid-friendly favorite with lasting appeal.
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (Booster Course Pass Included)
Platform: Nintendo Switch
Still the go-to for racing fun and family game nights. With the full set of DLC tracks, this is the definitive Mario Kart experience.
Best for Strategy and RPG Fans
Baldur’s Gate 3
Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S
The Dungeons & Dragons-based RPG that swept 2023’s Game of the Year awards is still going strong. Deep storytelling, tactical combat, and co-op options make this a top-tier choice.
Persona 3 Reload
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC
A complete remake of a beloved JRPG, offering stylish combat and a unique blend of dungeon crawling and social simulation.
Cities: Skylines II
Platform: PC (Console release delayed to 2026)
Perfect for players who love building, optimizing, and managing complex cities. A relaxing and rewarding gift for simulation fans.
For Action and Adventure Lovers
Star Wars Outlaws
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC
A brand-new open-world Star Wars game where you play as a smuggler navigating the criminal underworld. Rich in detail, with a strong narrative and gameplay variety.
Alan Wake II
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC
A gripping blend of survival horror and psychological thriller. Perfect for mature players who appreciate atmospheric storytelling.
Assassin’s Creed: Shadows
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC
Set in feudal Japan, this installment features dual protagonists and a mix of stealth and action. It’s a return to form for the franchise.
Best Indie Gems to Gift
Hades II (Early Access or Full)
Platform: PC
Fast-paced, beautifully animated, and packed with mythological flair. The sequel to one of the most acclaimed indies of the decade.
Sea of Stars
Platforms: All major consoles
A turn-based RPG inspired by SNES classics, featuring charming pixel art and a heartfelt story. A great gift for nostalgic players or newcomers to the genre.
Cocoon
Platforms: Switch, PS5, Xbox, PC
A short but brilliant puzzle adventure with a unique world-switching mechanic. Ideal for fans of games like Inside or The Witness.
Stocking Stuffer Ideas (Under $30 or On Sale)
- Stardew Valley – Cozy farming and life sim
- Hollow Knight – Deep and challenging Metroidvania
- Cuphead – Retro-style boss rush game with high difficulty
- Among Us – Still fun, especially with new roles and maps
- Tunic – Zelda-inspired action adventure with secrets galore
Final Thoughts: Gaming Gifts That Wow
Whether you’re shopping for a story-driven epic, a family-friendly title, or a clever indie gem, 2025 has you covered. With next-gen performance and top-tier creativity, this year’s selection of games makes it easier than ever to give a gift that truly delights.
There’s still time to grab these hits—just don’t wait until Christmas Eve.
