Are you stuck on Christmas Gift ideas? Well… Welcome to the official ITF Gaming: 28 Gifts That Won’t Suck This Christmas gift guide! Christmas is around the corner once again, which means that you are either getting something really epic… or you are not. Yes, we understand that some of our amazing readers will be receiving socks, underwear, toiletries, or even something from Grandma that resembles a sweater/jersey that may even still be moving and breathing from time to time.
Due to this fact, the team at ITF Gaming have decided to compile a list of 28 Gifts That Won’t Suck This Christmas in order to prevent some of you from making the drastic mistake of believing that an ordinary looking lamp is an ideal gift. So be sure to pass this list on via email, social media or carrier pigeon, to your loved ones, friends, or even a stranger in order to spread Santa’s message below.
Darryl’s Get Your Game On Gift Guide:
PlayStation 4
Click here to pre-order from Kalahari.com
IF you looking for a new console, then the PlayStation 4 is for you! The PS4 is a next generation computer entertainment system that redefines rich and immersive gameplay with powerful graphics and speed, deeply integrated social capabilities, and innovative second-screen features utilising devices such as PlayStation Vita (PS Vita).
The PS4 system focuses on the gamer, bringing you, powerful graphics and speed, intelligent personalisation, integrated social capabilities and innovative second-screen features. While combining unparalleled content, a truly immersive gaming experiences, plus all of your favourite digital entertainment apps, and PlayStation exclusives. Making the PlayStation 4 really the best place to play.
Nintendo Wii U:
Available from Kalahari.com
So what can gamers expect from the Nintendo Wii U?
The Nintendo Wii U is an HD console that offers more choice and variety of gameplay than ever before, with brand new gaming experiences enabled by the Wii U GamePad controller, whether playing alone or together with friends. The Wii U GamePad offers an integrated second screen and can also be used independently of the TV set with certain software. Existing Wii owners will be pleased to hear that nearly all Wii peripherals will be compatible with the Wii U console – with neither hardware pack including a Wii Remote Plus controller, Wii owners won’t need to repurchase peripherals they already own. For players who don’t already own a Wii console, Nintendo has created a Wii Remote Plus Additional Set containing a Wii Remote Plus controller, Nunchuk and sensor bar.
Additionally, Nintendo has come out with unique bundles to accommodate hard-core and casual gamers. These bundles include the following:
Wii U Basic Pack:
Wii U Console (White)
8GB Internal Flash Memory
Wii U Gamepad
Gamepad Stylus
Wii U AC Adapter
Wii U Gamepad AC Adapter
HDMI Cable
Wii U Premium Pack:
Wii U Console (Black)
32GB Internal Flash Memory
Wii U Gamepad
Wii U Gamepad Cradle
Wii U Gamepad Stand
Wii U Console Stand
Gamepad Stylus
Wii U AC Adapter
Wii U Gamepad AC Adapter
HDMI Cable
Sensor Bar
Logitech G500s Gaming Mouse
Available from Kalahari.com
The Logitech G500s Gaming Mouse is comfortable to use, very responsive, and has a surprisingly high build quality as well as a range of features for a mouse of its price. If you’re a casual gamer or just starting off, then I would probably recommend the G400s, purely for the lower price. If, however, you are a bit more picky about how you like your mouse to react, the two extra buttons, higher DPI, and weights, mean you are incredibly unlikely to regret spending just a little more.
Specs:
5x thumb buttons, 12 mp/sec, adjustable 200-5700DPi laser engine with adjustable weight cartridge, dual-mode scroll wheel with hyper-fast scrolling, polytetrafluoroethylene gaming feet, Max. Acceleration: 30G, speed 165iPS , 10 programmable buttons, with 4-way tilt wheel and zoom, dedicated controls to switch “on-the-fly” from pixel-precise targeting to fast-twitch evasive moves, USB, black and silver.
Brady’s Game Of Robes Gift Guide:
The Last of Us
Available from Kalahari.com
Uncharted and Crash Bandicoot developer, Naughty Dog have released their much anticipated title which enters the environment of an infection ravaged America. The story follows Joel and Ellie, who have to make their way across the country safely to complete their mission. Along the way they find themselves encountering increasingly dangerous situations. The PS3 Exclusive delivers pleasurable gameplay and a simply gripping narrative which never seems to disappoint. It’s definitely a strong contender for the Game of the Year.
Grand Theft Auto V
Available from Kalahari.com
Rockstar Games have once again crafted an excellent experience in its latest entry into the Grand Theft Auto Series. The story now follows the lives of three different characters as opposed to just one and the developers have done an excellent job at making it work. With more dynamic gameplay than ever before and Quentin Tarantino-esque banter, it’s an awesome game to play. Additionally, the multiplayer portion, GTA Online, features the entire map used in the single player allowing for a world that really feels alive. Another strong contender for Game of the Year, it rarely disappoints.
A Song of Ice and Fire Box Set
Available from Kalahari.com
Fans of the television series, Game of Thrones will love this box set as it includes all of the available novels from George R.R. Martin’s popular series. From the first book entitled, A Game of Thrones, up until the most recent A Dance with Dragons, readers can enjoy a fantasy setting filled with action, betrayal and downright brutality.
Batman Bath Robe
Available from The Dark Carnival
This is probably one of the coolest bath robes I have ever laid eyes upon. Now anyone can feel like the Dark Knight after taking a shower or having a soak in the bath. Even Batman needs to bathe sometimes, why not look awesome afterwards!
Nintendo 3DS XL
Available from Kalahari.com
Yes, I know the 3DS has been out for quite a while, but now is probably the best time to get your hands on one of these babies. Switching from 2D to 3D is as easy as moving the slider to the require setting. With an ever growing library of titles plus being pretty compact, this Nintendo handheld console is awesome for gaming on the go for nearly anyone.
William’s Beyond The Screen Gift Guide:
Comrad Gaming Helmet
Available from Thinkgeek.com
This engaging headset comes with a detachable mic and interchangeable covers.
There comes a time when you have to ask yourself: ‘How serious a gamer am I?’ It’s no secret that in a couple of decades, multiplayer FPS games have exploded into, not only a cultural phenomenon, but a sport. An eSport to be correct. There are certain gamers that aren’t even into single player campaigns anymore and do not take online gaming lightly. Whether you rate yourself amongst these ranks, or want to impress people at the next big modern warfare gaming LAN, the Comrad Gaming Helmet should make you feel the part.
The kit offers a fully immersive audio experience, with included controls on board for master volume, separate chat and a mute button. It also boasts wireless connectivity, so that you can stand up and yell ‘Come on!’ when you get fragged. The helmet is compatible with Xbox 360, PS3, Wii U, Wii, PC, Mac and will be with Oculus Rift as well. There are built-in, rechargeable batteries an even an adjustable chin strap. The full set also includes 3 interchangeable camo covers (see picture), a detachable boom mic, a 3.5mm jack to RCA audio cable, an Xbox 360 talkback cable, a mini USB cable and wireless audio receiver. The device weighs in at just under a kg and has a radius of 8’’ x 10’’. With its realistic look and feel it’s the perfect gift for your hardcore gamer girlfriend or your shell-shocked uncle.
28-inch Star Wars R2-D2 Tinsel Decoration
Available from Amazon.com
Mentioning Star Wars in the same sentence as Christmas always brings back embarrassing memories of the 1978 Star Wars Holiday Special, which Lucas himself wished he could eradicate from all existence. This little token of fanboy memorabilia is the perfect modern addition to the household Christmas decorations and could be kept as an ornament in general. R2 has 50 lights positioned throughout his body making him a wonder to behold and the fact that he has a 150 cm long lead wire means that he can be used to brighten up the indoors or outdoors as well.
Hyperkin USB Pixel Art Controller for PC/Mac
Available from Amazon.com
Not only does the Hyperkin controller resemble the retro pixel art from the likes of Minecraft and other Indie games, but it evokes a certain level of nostalgia for anyone that’s been around long enough to remember the NES (Nintendo Entertainment System) controllers. Either way, these reasons make this the perfect gift for gamers of all ages.
Tokyoflash Kisai Intoxicated Breathalyser Watch
Available from Tokyoflash.com (2014)
‘Tis the season to be jolly and, in order to prevent a day and night of celebrations ending in screeching tires and crunching metal, here is a rather sensible gift. Aside from other features, the watch reminds you to slow down before you go overboard. You can open the sensor cap and scan your level of intoxication. There is also a game that tests your reactions, where you have to stop a line in the dead center to prove to the watch that you’re okay to drive. Other features include: Time and date display, a stainless steel case and clasp and an adjustable stainless steel strap. The watch is USB chargeable and can be unscrewed and connected to your PC. A USB cable and screwdriver are included. If all this isn’t enough, know that the watch is also water resistant, in case you spill your celebratory champagne on it. Jokes aside, the watch will only be available on June 21st 2014, so you might have to rely on common sense for now. Usually staying at home and playing games works best.
Back to the Future DeLorean External Hard Drive
Availability dependent on the country you live in
With the size of software increasing so rapidly, sometimes I wonder if hardware will be able to keep up. At any rate, with hard drives like this one, modelled on the DeLorean from the 1985 film, which surely needs no more introductions, you can keep your programs and games together in style. The vehicle is modelled in stainless steel and features a hood and gull-wing doors that open. It is at 1:18 scale of the original. As a hard drive, you can store up to 750GB of data and access it through high-speed USB 2.0 connectivity. There is also a ‘Train Wheel’ version that features a train track base for the car to rest on. There is a red wheel or original version as well.
The device will set you back R3422.51
Bracken’s Collection of Chaos Gift Guide:
South Park: Kenny 4GB USB 2.0 Flash Drive
Get you South Park fix from Kalahari.com
This flash drive, available off Amazon (if you can get it imported) allows you to be the “bastard” who kills Kenny, by removing his head every time you use the flash drive. While it might be a little small for most practical use, the Kenny flash drive will certainly be a novel item to receive during the Festive Season.
Portal 2 Chell Action Figure
Available from The Dark Carnival
As Valve’s deputy silent protagonist, Chell from the Portal franchise is quite an iconic figure in gaming. Now, thanks to Dark Carnival, you can put that figure on your shelf! Weighing in at 7 inches tall with 20 points of articulation, the only thing you need is a real Portal gun (sold separately, this one’s for display only) and you can re-enact the Portal games. As an added bonus, the figure will recite all of the in-game character’s dialogue!
MOGA Mobile Gaming System for Android
Available from Orange
The one thing that touch screen phones lack is the ability to have an accurate control scheme in games, which shows in ports of older titles, such as the 3D GTA titles and the FIFA games. This is where the MOGA Mobile Gaming System comes in. Available from Orange locally, the device allows you to use a conventional dual-analog control system with a comprehensive library of optimised mobile games on your Android phone or tablet. If you’re really serious about gaming on the move, the MOGA may be for you.
Novelty T-Shirts
Novelty T-Shirts are a product which South Africa has no shortage of suppliers for. First off, we have Dark Carnival: although their collection is modest, they regularly receive fresh stuff. Additionally, we have T-Shirt Terrorist, a company which makes and distributes funny and quirky T-Shirts with pop-culture references. The T-Shirt you see below comes from sunfrogshirts.com – an international site – and contains reference to Star Wars, Batman, and Wayne’s World.
Current-gen games you’ve missed out on
Pick up some epic video game from Kalahari.com
With next-gen all over the place, you may feel left behind if you don’t have the funds or inclination to move immediately. But what next-gen will also bring is specials on old software and hardware, meaning it may be time to pick up games you’ve missed out over the last 7 years, or pick up the other console and play through its exclusives.
This is both a horrible joke, and a reference to one of this generation’s finest games.
Michael’s Gifts For Ultimate Happiness
Rocksmith 2014
Available from Kalahari.com
In terms of party games, Guitar Hero and Rock Band take the cake. Ubisoft’s new title however brings out a little more than a mere plastic guitar. With Rocksmith 2014 you not only enjoy the party play that you enjoyed with Guitar Hero and Rock Band, but you also learn all your favourite songs on a real guitar. Perfect for anyone who is up for a challenge greater than 5 coloured buttons, anyone that wants to learn to play guitar and even guitar veterans.
Roccat Gaming Mouse Kone [+]
Available from Kalahari.com
As a PC gamer, I know the importance of having a good mouse when you’re playing competitively. The right mouse needs to be responsive, fit comfortably into your hand, be well built and of good quality and most importantly be reasonably priced. The Kone [+] may not be the latest mouse in Roccat’s range, but it is definitely one of their best.
Assassin’s Creed Heritage Edition
Available from Kalahari.com
Anyone that’s anyone knows that Assassin’s Creed is where it’s at in terms of Action/Adventure titles. Now thanks to a gift from the heavens you can obtain the entire series, comprising of Assassin’s Creed 1 and 2, Assassin’s Creed Brotherhood, Assassin’s Creed Revelations and Assassin’s Creed 3. Immerse yourself in the war between the Templars and the Assassins and run, jump and assassinate your way through the ranks of officials, soldiers and mercenaries that come your way.
Tangle-Proof Earphones
Available from Guzzle.co.za
Don’t you just hate that moment when you put your earphones into your pocket only for them to emerge an hour later in the form of a sailor’s knot? Well now thanks to Dixon, you don’t have to go through the trauma and heartache of tangled earphones. Using a zip to hold your earphones together, you’ll never need to worry about the knots and loops again.
Discworld : Ankh-Morpork
Available at Discworldemporium.com
One of my favourite authors, simply because of the sheer magnificence of his work, would have to be Terry Pratchett. His Discworld series has and probably always will be on my bookshelf. Now thanks to the brilliance of artists such as Peter Dennis and Ian Mitchell, the series is brought to life in the board-game ‘Ankh-Morpork’. Winner of the UK Games Expo Best New Boardgame in 2011, this marvel will not only leave you in stitches but also entertain for hours on end.
Games we would definitely recommend on the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3:
LEGO: Marvel Super Heroes
Available at Kalahari.com
LEGO Marvel Super Heroes offers an original storyline in which Nick Fury calls upon Iron Man, the Hulk, Thor, Spider-Man, Wolverine and other heroes spanning the Marvel Universe to save Earth from such threats as the vengeance of Loki and the hunger of Galactus, Devourer of the Worlds. LEGO and Marvel fans will enjoy classic LEGO videogame adventure and humour, while playing as their favourite Marvel characters.
Need for Speed: Rivals
Available at Kalahari.com
In Need for Speed Rivals, gamers play as either a cop or racer, where each side of the law has its own set of high stakes challenges, rewards and consequences. As a racer, the goal is to become infamous for taking risks behind the wheel and capturing your most intense escapes on video for the world to see. The more cops players evade, the more Speed Points they collect, enabling them to unlock new cars and items. Keep raising the stakes race after race to become an ever-more valuable target to the cops – but risk losing it all if busted. As a cop, players work together as part of a team in pursuit of racers, earning prominence and rising in the ranks of the Police Force with every bust. Achieving higher ranks unlocks new police only cars and more powerful pursuit tech.
Batman: Arkham Origins
Available at Kalahari.com
Developed by WB Games Montréal, Batman: Arkham Origins features an expanded Gotham City and introduces an original prequel storyline set several years before the events of Batman: Arkham Asylum and Batman: Arkham City, the first two critically acclaimed games of the franchise. Taking place before the rise of Gotham City’s most dangerous criminals, the game showcases a young and unrefined Batman as he faces a defining moment in his early career as a crime fighter that sets his path to becoming the Dark Knight. As the story unfolds, players will meet many important characters for the first time and forge key relationships.
Call of Duty: Ghosts
Available at Kalahari.com
Published by Activision and developed by Infinity Ward, the studio that created the original Call of Duty and the seminal Call of Duty: Modern Warfare series, Call of Duty: Ghosts ushers in the next generation of the franchise, delivering a riveting all-new gameplay experience built on an entirely new story, setting and cast, all powered by a new next-generation Call of Duty engine.
Battlefield 4
Available at Kalahari.com
Battlefield 4 is the genre-defining action blockbuster made from moments that blur the line between game and glory. Fuelled by the next-generation power and fidelity of Frostbite3, Battlefield 4 provides a visceral, dramatic experience unlike any other.
Only in Battlefield can you demolish the buildings shielding your enemy. Only in Battlefield will you lead an assault from the back of a gun boat. Battlefield grants you the freedom to do more and be more while playing to your strengths and carving your own path to victory.
Do you have any gift ideas to contribute? Feel free to let us know in the comments section below!
The post 28 Gifts That Won’t Suck This Christmas appeared first on ITF Gaming.