Need Christmas Gift Ideas? How About Games!

By K. Paul Mallasch

If you are having trouble coming up with a good gift idea for Christmas this year, don't fear. There is a good chance that games are somewhere on the list of everyone you are going to get a gift. You will still have to know a little bit about the person's gaming preferences, but if you're buying them a gift, this is something you should know. If you don't know the gift recipient very well, we have some tips for buying games for them as well. By the time you're done reading, you should have a good idea of the perfect game for your Christmas gift.

Buying Video Games for All Ages

There are other things you should know when buying video games as Christmas gift basket, but these two tips should get you headed in the right direction.

• Know their System - If you are planning on buying a video game, you will need to know what console they have. For example, do they have a Nintendo DS? A Nintendo Wii? Perhaps the X-Box or PS3? If you don't want to disappoint with your video game gift, make sure you know the gaming system the gift recipient owns.
• Know Their Age - Beyond what type of video game system they have, you want to pay attention to their age. You don't want to get a five year old the latest, greatest (and bloodiest) Grand Theft Auto game. Most games have age recommendations. Pay attention to these closely - especially the ratings.

Old School Games as Christmas Gifts

If you don't know what video game system your gift recipient has or aren't sure of what types of video games they like, there is another solution available. Board games aren't flashy, but they're still around for a reason - they're fun. Not to mention they usually don't cost as much as the latest and greatest video games. As with video games, you want to make sure you stick to age appropriate games.

Games as Gifts for Different Ages

• Toddlers - Memory is a classic game that is available in many different forms. Your child will love this game and it will help them improve their memory skills.
• 5 to 7 Year Olds - Candyland and Hungry-Hungry-Hippo are classic games for children in this age range.
• 8 to 12 Year Olds - For slightly older children, Sorry, Clue, Monopoly and other games are favorites, although they may need an adult or two playing as well.
• Teenagers - Most teens would rather have a video game, but there are some board games that cater to this age group. Scrabble Slam is one that many enjoy - boys and girls - while many boys end up loving Risk.
• Adults - There are actually quite a few board games that are meant for teens and adults. From strategy war games to collectible trading card games, there are many options if you're buying a Christmas gift idea for someone older.

K. Paul Mallasch publishes Top Toys Blog as well as Toys Timeline if you want to know more about the history of toys as well as current favorites.

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