Gaming Gifts for Boys Ages 8–12 ($25–$50)
Shopping for a tween grandson who loves gaming in the $25–$50 range? These 12 picks come straight from our gift-finder catalog — every one grandparent-tested, rated, and matched to this exact age and interest. The LEGO Star Wars leads the list for a reason.
The Picks
LEGO Star Wars
LEGO Star Wars themed sets — X-Wings, Millennium Falcons, Death Stars. The all-time favorite for Star Wars-obsessed kids 8+.
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
The definitive Mario Kart. Multiplayer, endlessly replayable, family-friendly. The best single game to gift with a Nintendo Switch.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Open-world adventure that launched a generation of Switch gamers. For 9+ who want a real game to get lost in.
LEGO Minecraft
LEGO Minecraft sets — physical versions of the game kids already love. The crossover that never misses for 7-12 year old Minecraft fans.
Pokemon Pikachu Plush (Large)
Quality Pokemon Center plush. Soft, durable, accurately colored. The classic Pokemon gift for younger fans and bedroom decor for older.
Catan (Board Game)
The board game that created a genre. Teaches strategy, trading, and patience. Families return to it for years.
Minecraft (Nintendo Switch)
The open-world sandbox game kids build entire worlds in. Reliable gift for any 6+ kid with a Switch.
Ticket to Ride (Board Game)
The gateway family strategy game — simpler than Catan, still teaches real planning. Works from age 8 through adult.
Ticket to Ride: First Journey
Kid-appropriate version of the #1 family strategy game. Teaches real strategy to 6-10 year olds. Best gateway to real board games.
Pokemon TCG Elite Trainer Box
The universal Pokemon gift. 8-10 booster packs, energy cards, dice, sleeves, player's guide. Perfect for any Pokemon-fan kid age 8+.
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K
Turns any TV into a smart TV. Great gift for the teen's bedroom or first dorm. Cheap, useful, universally loved.
Sony WH-CH520 Wireless Headphones
Real-quality starter wireless headphones. For the 10+ kid who's outgrown toy headphones and wants something that sounds good.