As the holiday season is in full swing, people are wondering what to ask for or what to get when it comes to video games. The industry is as big and as popular as ever, and a lot of exciting games and systems have released this year, culminating in the ultimate wishlist. We will be compiling games both new and old, all of which make great gifts for you or a loved one. Links to purchase these games will be included for those interested.

Cross-Platform Games (these are games that are available on multiple platforms)

Star Wars Squadrons (available on PS4, Xbox One, and PC) is a starfighter combat game set in the Star Wars galaxy. Pilot both an X-Wing and a TIE fighter in a campaign set after the events of Return of the Jedi, in a story following both the New Republic and the remnants of the Empire. In addition to the campaign, there are two online multiplayer modes available to play: dogfights and fleet battles. Rated T for Teen. Amazon Link

Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War (available on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, and PC) is the latest in the long running first person shooter series. The campaign is set during the early 1980s, taking place all over the world in the many geopolitical conflicts of the Cold War. The beloved multiplayer modes return, as well as the next generation of the Zombies game mode. Rated M for Mature. Amazon Link

Just Dance 2021  (available on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, and Nintendo Switch) includes over 40 popular hits to dance to. You can use your smartphone as a controller using the Just Dance Controller app, and play along with up to six people locally. Online multiplayer is also included.  Rated E for Everyone. Amazon Link

PS4 and PS5 Exclusive Games

Spider-Man Miles Morales (available on PS4 and PS5) is a followup to 2018’s Spider-Man on PS4, featuring Miles Morales as the main character. The PS5 version includes a remastered version of Spider-Man with additional content. Rated T for Teen. Amazon Link

The Last of Us Part II (available on PS4, backwards compatible with PS5) is the sequel to the critically acclaimed The Last of Us, following the character of Ellie years after the events of the first game. Rated M for Mature. Amazon Link

Demon’s Souls (available on PS5) is a next-gen remake of the PS3 title of the same name. Travel through the kingdom of Boleteria as you face strange creatures and fearsome demons. Rated M for Mature. Amazon Link

Xbox One and Xbox Series X Exclusive Games

Gears Tactics (available on Xbox One and Xbox Series X) is a turn-based real time strategy game set in the Gears of War series. Features an immersive campaign with massive boss battles, customizable squads and characters, and fast-paced gameplay. Rated M for Mature. Amazon Link

Halo: The Master Chief Collection (available on Xbox One and backwards compatible with Series X) is a collection of six iconic Halo games. Although it was released back in 2014, the collection has received a slew of updates in recent months, including the addition of Halo: Reach, new cosmetic weapon and character skins, and a massive performance update for the Series X. This collection offers six campaigns and dozens of multiplayer maps and modes. Rated M for Mature. Amazon Link

Grounded (available on Xbox One and backwards compatible with Series X) is a digital-only survival-adventure game. You have been shrunken down to the size of a bug, so you must learn to live amongst giant insects and survive the perils of your own backyard. Rated T for Teen. Microsoft Store Link

Nintendo Switch Exclusive Games

Super Mario 3D All-Stars celebrates the 35th anniversary of Super Mario Bros with three of the plumber’s 3D adventures. Super Mario 64, Super Mario Sunshine, and Super Mario Galaxy are included. Now is the best time to get this collection, as Nintendo will stop selling both the physical and digital versions of the game in March 2021. Rated E for Everyone. Amazon Link

Animal Crossing: New Horizons allows you to build the perfect island community from scratch with your animal neighbors. You can collect materials to craft tools and furniture, customize your character and home, visit your friend’s islands, and much, much more. Rated E for Everyone. Amazon Link

Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit brings Mario Kart into your home for the first time ever. Create your own tracks by placing gates and watch Mario or Luigi race in your home via augmented reality technology. You can choose from either a Mario Set or Luigi Set. Rated E for Everyone. Amazon Link

In Conclusion

These are but a few of the thousands of amazing games you can get this holiday season, but these games stand out on their consoles as unique and fun experiences. We hope this list was helpful for your holiday wish list or gave you gift ideas.