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Updated 12/7/24
Step into the time machine and journey back to the golden age of gaming, where pixelated adventures and joystick mastery reigned supreme. For those who grew up in the 80s and 90s, finding the perfect gift that stirs up those nostalgic memories can be both fun and challenging. But don't worry—our curated list of the 10 best gifts for retro gamers has you covered. Whether you're shopping for a classic arcade lover or a Super Nintendo aficionado, these gifts celebrate the games and consoles that defined a generation. From collectibles to apparel and tech, this guide will ensure you find the ideal present that will ignite memories of those cherished gaming moments.
1. Steam Deck OLED - A Retro Gaming Powerhouse
The Steam Deck is a powerhouse for retro gaming enthusiasts, offering both versatility and portability. With its robust hardware and PC-like functionality, it allows you to install emulators like which supports a wide variety of retro consoles such as NES, SNES, Sega Genesis, and PlayStation. You can easily load game ROMs, providing access to an extensive library of classic games. For added convenience, retro games are also available for purchase directly through Steam. Whether you’re setting up emulation or enjoying official retro titles, the Steam Deck combines ease of use with a nostalgic gaming experience. Plus, with a strong community of users sharing guides and support, getting started with retro gaming on the Steam Deck has never been easier.
Click here to purchase the Steam Deck OLED
2. Super Mario Party Jamboree - Warp-pipe to childhood joy
For gamers who love fun, fast-paced multiplayer experiences, Super Mario Party Jamboree for the Nintendo Switch is a must-have. This exciting new installment in the Mario Party franchise brings the beloved cast of characters together for a wild array of mini-games, vibrant board designs, and competitive gameplay. Perfect for family game nights or hanging out with friends, it offers something for everyone, with simple controls, quirky challenges, and hours of entertainment. Whether you're a Mario Party veteran or new to the series, Super Mario Party Jamboree delivers nostalgic fun with a fresh twist, making it an ideal gift for gamers of all ages looking to add some party spirit to their gaming collection.
Click right here to purchase Super Mario Party Jamboree.
3. Princess Peach Shirt - Retro Style for the Modern Retro Gamer
As a retro gamer, one of the my favorite ways to show off my love my video games is to wear cool shirts. Help the gamer in your life start a collection of retro gaming shirts, showcasing iconic characters and logos that ignite childhood nostalgia. T-shirts serve as wearable time capsules, seamlessly transporting gamers back to the golden era of console wars and pixelated glory. Whether it's a timeless Mario design or a nostalgic Sonic the Hedgehog throwback, each shirt encapsulates the essence of gaming history. Gift a retro gamer one of these shirts to not just enhance their wardrobe but to immerse them in a sartorial journey through the captivating nostalgia of classic gaming.
You can find this Princess Peach shirt right here on Amazon.
4. Super Mario Themed Ornaments - Deck the Halls with the Mario Crew
Indulge in the holiday spirit with a touch of nostalgia! Adorn your tree with retro gaming ornaments featuring iconic characters like Mario, Donkey Kong, Princess Peach, and Luigi. These ornaments aren't just decorations; they are tiny time machines that transport gamers back to the excitement of holidays past. Perfect for anyone who loves classic gaming, these ornaments turn holiday celebrations into a vibrant homage to the beloved games and characters that defined an era. Whether you're gifting a gamer or adding some retro flair to your own decor, these ornaments will make your holiday season extra special.
Click to get a closer look at a few retro gaming Christmas ornaments available on Amazon through Hallmark.
5. Retro Gaming Mugs and Coasters - Nostalgia in Every Sip
Start the day with a cup of joe in a mug that celebrates the iconic characters of retro gaming. Paired with matching coasters, these practical gifts are a stylish addition to any gaming den. Perfect for the 80s and 90s kids who want to infuse their daily routines with a dose of pixelated charm.
You can find these awesome coasters here.
6. Arcade 1Up Cabinet - Relive the Glory Days: A Must-Have for Every Retro Gamer's Den
Surprising a devoted retro gamer with an Arcade 1Up Cabinet is an extraordinary choice. Impeccably crafted, it becomes a captivating portal to the golden era of gaming. The cabinet, in scaled-down or full-sized versions, transcends nostalgia, merging style with functionality, elevating any gaming space. It's more than furniture; it's a celebration of classic gaming joy—a personalized, immersive experience etching enduring memories. As a creation of Arcade1Up, these cabinets aren't just replicas; they're portals to relive the magic of retro games at home.
Arcade1Up Cabinets boast a curated selection of timeless games, including classics like Ms. PAC-MAN, Galaga, Street Fighter II, and my personal favorites Pong and Mortal Kombat II. Arcade1Up Cabinets offer an immersive, genuine gaming encounter—a gift that invests in cherished memories and pays homage to the enduring joy of classic gaming.
You can find Arcade 1Up cabinets on Amazon and on their official website.
7. N64 to HDMI Converter - Level Up Your Retro Gaming
This N64 to HDMI converter is a game-changer for retro gaming enthusiasts looking to revive classics like "Super Mario 64," "The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time," and "Pokemon Stadium." The device ingeniously bridges the gap between the classic Nintendo 64 console and modern display technologies by converting the N64's analog signal to a crisp HDMI output. Users laud its plug-and-play simplicity, eliminating the need for complex setups or additional power sources. The converter supports various resolutions, delivering a visually enhanced gaming experience without compromising on authenticity. With a sturdy build and positive customer reviews highlighting its reliability, this N64 to HDMI converter is a must-have for anyone seeking to resurrect the nostalgic charm of their Nintendo 64 games on contemporary displays. Whether you're a seasoned retro gamer or introducing a new generation to classic titles, this converter seamlessly brings the magic of beloved N64 games to the forefront of modern entertainment setups.
You can grab the N64 converter here!
8. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Cowabunga Collection - Bringing Back the Heroes in a Half-Shell for 80s and 90s Kids
The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Cowabunga Collection is a shell-shocking tribute to the beloved heroes in a half shell. This comprehensive collection for PlayStation 5 brings together a treasure trove of TMNT content, including 13 classic games spanning the turtles' video game legacy. From the iconic "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in Time" to the modern "TMNT: Mutants in Manhattan," this compilation offers a nostalgic journey through the turtles' adventures. With updated visuals, enhanced gameplay, and additional features, this collection is a must-have for fans eager to relive the ninja action and camaraderie of Leonardo, Michelangelo, Donatello, and Raphael in their quest to save New York City. Cowabunga indeed!
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Cowabunga collection is available on PS4, PS5, and Nintendo Switch.
9. The Illustrated History of 151 Video Games - A Literary Adventure Through Gaming History for Retro Enthusiasts
"The Illustrated History of 151 Video Games" by Simon Parkin is a treasure trove for gaming enthusiasts and retro fans alike. This beautifully curated book chronicles 151 iconic video games that shaped the industry, from early arcade classics to beloved console hits. Packed with stunning visuals and fascinating insights, it’s perfect for exploring the evolution of gaming and discovering the stories behind your favorite titles. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or new to retro gaming culture, this book offers a nostalgic journey through the milestones that defined an era of entertainment.
You can check out the book here.
10. Retro Game Controller Poster - A Visual Tribute for Every Retro Gamer
Transport yourself back in time with the Nostalgic Gamer Art poster from Haus and Hues, a captivating homage to the golden era of retro gaming. Ideal for 80s and 90s kids, this visually stunning wall art showcases a graphic history of gaming input devices, ranging from the obscure Atari's Home Pong console of 1975 to iconic joysticks and beloved dual-shock controllers. The poster serves as a nostalgic time capsule, evoking memories of pixelated adventures and endless hours of gameplay. Crafted with premium protection in mind, each print is reinforced with recycled chipboard pads and shipped in rigid stay-flat mailers. Whether framed for a polished finish or displayed with poster tape, clipboards, and bulldog clips for a casual vibe, this gamer wall decor adds a unique touch to any space. Gift this perfect gamer gift to fellow enthusiasts and let the nostalgia of classic gaming take center stage in your home or dorm room.
You can grab this retro game controller poster here.
In the world of retro gaming, the joy lies in the journey back to the formative years of video game culture. Whether it's the handheld magic of Game & Watch, the groundbreaking Atari 2600, stylish shirts, festive ornaments, practical mugs and coasters, or the immersive arcade cabinet experience, these gifts are a testament to the enduring appeal of classic gaming. So, as you embark on the quest for the perfect present, remember that the best gift is one that transports your favorite 80s and 90s kids back to the pixelated paradise of their youth.
