A new kind of play.
What it's like, what you'll need, and why someone might love it.
Jump to shopping listVideo gaming covers an enormous range of activities: story adventures, puzzles, building games, strategy, sports, and games to play with friends. Some people love competition; others like escaping into a detailed fictional world or tinkering with creative systems. Starting is easiest when you know the person’s platform and the kinds of experiences they enjoy.
There are, essentially, three main stand alone gaming platforms: Microsoft Xbox, sony Playstation and Ninendo Switch. You'll want to pick one platform and get accessories for that platform alone. Most general accessories like lights, chairs and desks can be used with any system.
A comfortable setup, suitable headphones, controller accessories, or a game that matches their taste may be more useful than adding hardware blindly. This hobby can appeal to storytellers, puzzle lovers, social players, and people who enjoy mastering new skills. Confirm the exact console or computer compatibility, age suitability, and any online subscription requirements before buying a gift.
THE HOBBY UNBOXED SHOPPING LIST
Choose how far you want to go. We'll organize the supplies; you choose what to purchase on Amazon.
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The options describe the scope of supplies, not guaranteed prices. Prices and availability are shown on Amazon.
Everything you need to get started
Perfect starter system with games for kids and families
✓ ALREADY OWNED — Removed from your shopping listThe latest offering from Nintendo allows three play modes: TV, handheld and tabletop. Larger 7.9" screen, support for HDR and 120fps. Fun games, great for families and kids.
Got a system? You'll need games!
✓ ALREADY OWNED — Removed from your shopping listKeeps a current controller handy and protected
✓ ALREADY OWNED — Removed from your shopping listHelps keep chargers and accessories tidy
✓ ALREADY OWNED — Removed from your shopping listThird-party Amazon-listing data; rating/review count may change. Confirm exact variation and current reviews before publishing.
Reduces desk clutter around gear
✓ ALREADY OWNED — Removed from your shopping listThird-party Amazon-listing data; rating/review count may change. Confirm exact variation and current reviews before publishing.
Ideas for shared play and discovery
✓ ALREADY OWNED — Removed from your shopping listMake the first few sessions easier
A Good Entry Level Game System
✓ ALREADY OWNED — Removed from your shopping listExperience the fastest, most powerful Xbox ever with Xbox Series X, now all-digital with a 1TB SSD. Make the most of every gaming minute with Quick Resume, lightning-fast load times, and gameplay of up to 120 FPS—all powered by Xbox Velocity Architecture. Enjoy thousands of games from four generations of Xbox, with hundreds of titles that look and
You'll have a blast with games for the XBox
✓ ALREADY OWNED — Removed from your shopping listImproves ambient lighting for a gaming setup
✓ ALREADY OWNED — Removed from your shopping listComfort accessories; confirm controller model
✓ ALREADY OWNED — Removed from your shopping listKeeps controllers free from dust
✓ ALREADY OWNED — Removed from your shopping listCustomizes controller comfort and feel
✓ ALREADY OWNED — Removed from your shopping listFor the extra-special version
More Serious Game System for the Serious Gamer
✓ ALREADY OWNED — Removed from your shopping listSlim Design, players get powerful gaming technology packed inside a sleek and compact console design. 825GB of storage, keep your favorite games raeady and waiting for you to jump in and play.
You'll be blown away by these PS5 Games
✓ ALREADY OWNED — Removed from your shopping listSit and play for hours with these chairs
✓ ALREADY OWNED — Removed from your shopping list3-Zone Lumbar, 22-Point Adjustment, Breathable Mesh, Custom Backplate, 720° Armrests, BIFMA Certified Ergonomic, 140° Recline, IGR Certified, Niko Endorsed. One of the best.
Creates a comfortable surface for keyboard and mouse
✓ ALREADY OWNED — Removed from your shopping listThird-party Amazon-listing data; rating/review count may change. Confirm exact variation and current reviews before publishing.
Improves voice chat and game audio
✓ ALREADY OWNED — Removed from your shopping listConvenient charging between sessions
✓ ALREADY OWNED — Removed from your shopping listThird-party Amazon-listing data; rating/review count may change. Confirm exact variation and current reviews before publishing.
Adds adjustable task lighting to a setup
✓ ALREADY OWNED — Removed from your shopping listDisclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Shopping links on this page are paid affiliate links. We may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.