2016 Kid's Holiday Gift Guide

Toys, games, and accessories for the geeky kid in your life. 

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The holidays are a time for kids to really step up their begging game, coming up with creative and often not-so-subtle ways of telling people what gifts they'd like in celebration. If you're at a loss for things to buy a kid in your life, allow us to offer up some suggestions for things they may enjoy. 

Nintendo Amiibo - $12.99 (Amazon)

 

Amiibo are a neat series of Nintendo collectibles that can be used for display and contain NFC chips that can be used to upload data or unlock certain features in games on the Wii U and 3DS. There are a lot of Amiibo available now, including characters like Mario, Luigi, Link, the Squid Kids, Shovel Knight, Yoshi, and many more.

Disney Infinity 3.0 - $14.99 (GameStop)

Disney Infinity sadly came to an end earlier this year, but there are still plenty of copies available for all major platforms. Disney Infinity 3.0 sees the introduction of Star Wars into the Infinity family, complete with several different story packs, many different character statues that can be used to import characters into the game, and fun missions throughout. A lot of these figures are now available on clearance, so a lot of these will be cheaper than even the MSRP suggests.  

Five Nights at Freddy’s Merch (GameStop)

Five Nights at Freddy’s exploded into popularity thanks to the rise of YouTube let’s players and its brand of kid-friendly horror, and now an extensive line of merchandising will allow kids to (literally) wear their fandom on their sleeves, as well as put it on the shelf, play with it, and collect multiple items.

Nintendo 2DS - $101.99 (Amazon)

The 2DS plays the same games as the 3DS, but its wedge design and lack of a 3D slider make it a more sensible choice for younger gamers. It’s sturdier, and no 3D means underdeveloped eyes won’t have to strain to deal with the visuals.

Nintendo 3DS - $100 MSRP

Nintendo’s signature handheld system is on sale for its lowest retail price ever. For $100, get the system that houses multiple Pokemon titles, remixed versions of classic games, Super Smash Bros., Monster Hunter, and a litany of other great games. This version is best suited for older kids, since the 3D can sometimes cause eye strain on younger kids with underdeveloped eyes.

Pokemon Sun/Moon - $39.99 MSRP

The latest in the long-running, massively popular franchise, Pokemon Sun and Moon introduces all-new gameplay features and exclusives never seen before in previous iterations. There aren’t a ton of differences between the two, so either should be fine for kids who aren’t especially discerning about the Legendary Pokemon in either game.

Pokemon Go Plus Bracelet (Pokemon Go)

For the kids obsessed with catching Pokemon on the go, the Pokemon Go bracelet sends the wearer notifications via vibration and lights to alert them when they’re near a Pokestop, when a Pokemon appears, and will even allow the wearer to throw Pokeballs and catch Pokemon without having a smartphone up. Plus, it’s a cute little accessory for the Pokemaniac in your life.

Kirby: Planet Robobot - $39.99 (Amazon)

Kirby is adorable, and his games are even cuter. This time around, he’s upgraded his typical eat-people-and-assume-their-form and is now piloting an adorable mech. Keep up with Kirby’s latest adventures on the Nintendo 3DS. Read our review to learn more.

Skylanders Imaginators - $59.99 (Amazon)

The newest installment in the Skylanders franchise adds its own unique twist: design your own creature and send in your design to have it 3D printed and sent back. The Skylanders games have long been a great, family-friendly series for kids to have fun with, and having the option for customization is just an added bonus.

Pikachu Hat - $19.99 (Amazon)

Pikachu is one of the most adorable characters to be designed over the past few years, and it’s not surprising that kids would take to the little electric mouse like they have. He’s also the most recognizable symbol of Pokemon, and wearing this hat will easily communicate your love for Pikachu and all things Pokemon.

New Rogue One Toys (Toys R Us)

With an all-new Star Wars film just around the corner, there’s been a steady release of new toys featuring characters and vehicles from Rogue One. This wide spread of merch includes figures, vehicles, remote-controlled vehicles, shirts, socks, glasses, pencil toppers, and more.

Contributing Editor
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