Many kids like to spend their free time playing some video games. If you’re not keeping up with the latest consoles, games, and accessories in gaming, finding a gaming gift for kids can feel impossible. Luckily, there are a lot of options to fit a variety of platforms and a range of budgets.
When you think video games, it’s easy to think only of the big ticket items, but this list also includes plenty of affordable options that are just as likely to put a smile on your gamer kids face. This list includes games, accessories, game related toys and collectibles, and more. These are the top kids gaming gift ideas of 2026.
Gift Cards
If you’re not sure what system they like best or which games they have, a gift card is always a great gift for kids who play video games. This will let them choose their own next game to play. There are also gift cards that add in-game currency to some of their favorite games, like Minecraft or Fortnite.
| Gift Card | Price |
| Minecraft 3,500 Minecoins | $20 |
| Fortnite | $30 |
| GameStop | $25 |
| Nintendo eShop | $20 |
| XBOX | $25 |
| PlayStation | $25 |
Game Systems
The big systems, XBOX Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and PlayStation 5, can be an obvious choice if you’re looking to get a console. However, there are a few other options if diving into the big players isn’t right for your little gamer quite yet, or you’re looking for alternative options for them.
Of the major consoles, the Nintendo Switch 2 is the most affordable as they have all been hit with price hikes. If the major consoles aren’t on the list, the Nex Playground is a small game system that uses a camera as the controller. Your movements control your characters and the system has 5 built-in games or more than 60 options with the Play Pass. It’s a good way to keep kids moving while they play. Kids aged 4-7 will add education into their movement video game experience with the LeapFrog LeapMove. It has 25 built-in games that teach math, phonics, and more in the form of games.
Video Game Accessories
The right accessories can both add some fun to the console setup and make things more convenient. We’ve found a great variety of accessory options from controllers to headsets, and more. Many of these items have themes from games that are popular with kids and serve a useful purpose.
Toys
Video games that are popular with kids have a lot of different toy options if you’re looking for something to get them away from the screens for a bit. These items are themed with titles like Pokemon, Minecraft, Mario, and more, but encourage play away from the controller.
Which kids gaming gift ideas do you think are the best for the 2026 holiday season? Tell us what you’ll be picking up in the comments and join us over at the official Insider Gaming Discord server.
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