Some Awesome Gift Ideas for Retro Video Game Lovers

Buying gifts for your loved ones is not an easy task. You have to know what really tickles their fancy so that you know your gift will be appreciated. This is especially true with family or friends who have hobbies or interests that are unique and interesting.

An example of this unusual hobby is the love for retro games, video game titles from the 80s and 90s. Some people prefer these types of games due to the nostalgia they bring. The latest releases of video games are awesome, but some people prefer the simplistic and familiar game mechanics of classic games. Whatever the reason may be, there is no denying that old school games are here to stay.

Retro Games

The obvious choice to get a retro gamer this holiday would be to shop for some vintage video games for them. This will certainly make them happy regardless if they get to play the game or not. More games in the library, even ones that remain untouched for years, are definitely appreciated.

Additionally, vintage games are usually more affordable than recently-published games. What’s even better is that you can purchase a collection or compilation of retro games. Your friend get to own a complete trilogy of the game you intend to give.

The most popular ones to look out for are Super Mario Bros, Castlevania, Super Metroid, Pac-Man, Legend of Zelda, Sonic the Hedgehog, Megaman, and Street Fighter. These are the games that created a specific genre, brought about the evolution of the specific genre they are in, and inspired modern video games.

When it comes to games that have been recently released, some of these games are actually designed in the same manner as the vintage ones. Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night and Blasphemous were published in 2019, but the gameplay as well as aesthetics of these games are inspired by Castlevania and other retro games.

Vintage Gaming Systems and Accessories

Most retro games have been ported to the PC, mobile, and the latest game consoles. But if you want your friend to get the nostalgic vibe and authentic feel of playing retro games, then you should consider getting them vintage consoles. These will let your friends relieve their childhood with the classic gaming system of their choice. This can either be Nintendo, PlayStation, SEGA, or even an arcade machine.

Some of these vintage consoles are designed with convenience and accessibility in mind. For instance, some have functionality where gamers can plug the gaming console to HD TVs. Being able to play retro games on a large TV will greatly improve your friend’s gaming experience.

Additionally, you can buy controllers and other accessories for these classic game consoles.

Retro Game Apparel

Getting to wear something that expresses someone’s love for retro games makes anyone feel awesome and cool. That is why it’s a great idea to gift your loved ones with something they can wear that references their favorite retro games. T-shirts are the first choice but do note that there are plenty of apparel with designs inspired by retro games as well. You can go for adorable socks, hoodies, headwear, scarfs, shoes, and many others.

 Video Game Art Books

If your friend is an aspiring artist and a retro gamer at the same time, a good idea is to give them art books of video games. You get to hit two birds with one stone - your friend’s love for retro games and their dream of becoming an artist. Most notable ones to get would be The Art of Final Fantasy, Mega Man, and Legend of Zelda. These offer a gallery of impressive artworks, supplemental information about the game’s world, and a peek at what’s going on during video game development. Your friend will certainly appreciate these gifts as it helps them understand video game art and game design. It can also act as a daily motivation tool for their chosen artistic career in the future.

Toys, Action Figures, or Funko Pops of Retro Game Characters

Another way to show your retro gamer friends that you support their hobby is by giving them action figures of their favorite characters. You can also get them Funko Pops, adorable vinyl figurine that resemble popular characters. There seems to be an abundance of Star Wars, Super Mario, Sonic, and Street Fighter toys, so you should not have too much trouble finding one. If you can’t find a certain character, you can always request for a customized action figure from custom toy experts. This is especially fitting if your friend is also an avid collector of action figures, toys, Funko Pops, and other video game memorabilia.

The ones mentioned are but few suggestions of the many gift ideas for people who love retro games. These gifts express that you support their passion for nostalgic games. This is certainly something that will put a smile on anyone’s face and level up their December.