Platformer games know how to create big moments with simple jumps and clever level designs. If you’re looking for a fun present for someone obsessed with hopping through colorful worlds or who loves collecting rare merch from these games, you’ve got plenty of cool options.
Here you’ll find a bunch of ideas that make awesome gifts for every platformer fan – whether you’re hunting for unique collectibles, personal gear, handy accessories, or awesome ways to help them create the ultimate game space.
Top Collectible Platformer Game Fans Will Seriously Geek Out Over
Platformers often bring up big nostalgia, with fans loving the art and characters as much as the gameplay. Collectibles let people show off their love for indie and retro games long after the screen fades to black. Even simple items like vinyl figures or plush toys can sit on a shelf and bring back memories of favorite boss fights or hidden levels.
Here’s a quick look at the kinds of collectibles that make awesome gifts for platformer lovers:
- Retro Cartridge Replicas: These miniature models resemble classic NES or SNES cartridges and sometimes feature playable indie games. They serve as both collectibles and, in some cases, functional retro tech.
- Vinyl Figures, Figurines, and Plushies: Brands like Youtooz and Funko create stylized vinyl figures of characters from Mario, Shantae, Cuphead, Celeste, and more. There are also plush versions of indie heroes (like Madeline from Celeste or Hollow Knight bugs) alongside official or artist-made figurines – some posable or customizable. These add a playful touch to gaming spaces or desks.
- Game Art Prints, Wall Art & Posters: Pixel art posters, fan art prints, and high-quality cover art reproductions brighten up any gaming area. Limited-edition prints signed by developers or artists add a personal touch for dedicated fans.
- Enamel Pins: Small and affordable, these pins – often sold by indie devs – feature characters, icons, or logos. They’re popular at conventions and look great on jackets, backpacks, or display boards.
- Limited Edition Game Releases: Collector’s editions often bundle games with extras like art books, soundtracks, and pins. These special releases typically sell out quickly.
Many indie studios run merch stores where proceeds support new projects. For example, the Fangamer store has a whole section of apparel and collectibles for classics like Hollow Knight, Shovel Knight, and Celeste. It’s a fun way to back small teams and get something cool and unique. Besides, supporting these devs means more fantastic platformers will keep popping up in the future.
Retro-Inspired Gear & Apparel
Retro gaming style is back in a big way, especially with indie titles borrowing from old-school design. Clothes and accessories with pixel art, game-themed prints, or even subtle nods to favorite franchises are practical and make a statement – perfect for showing off fandom without going full cosplay. Gaming designs have moved beyond childish prints; now they’re about expressing identity in subtle, grown-up ways.
- Pixel Art T-Shirts & Hoodies: Many online shops offer gear with clever 8-bit or 16-bit motifs. Some shirts feature mashups or quotes only real fans will spot, encouraging a sense of community whenever you meet another aficionado in the wild.
- Snapbacks and Beanies: Hats with embroidered sprites, collectible patches, or game logos feel nostalgic and work for casual wear or conventions. Beanies, in particular, add comfort during those intense winter gaming nights.
- Messenger Bags & Backpacks: Check out canvas bags with classic controller prints, pixel characters, or level map designs. They’re sturdy for carrying laptops, consoles, or convention haul, making them a smart and stylish choice for gamers on the move.
- Socks & Pajamas: Cozy socks featuring Mario, Sonic rings, or Tetris blocks are a safe bet for winter gifts and lounging during game nights. Pajama sets combine comfort with playful nostalgia, so downtime still feels on-genre.
When buying apparel, it’s good to know the recipient’s size and any favorite colors or characters, so the gift feels personal. If you’re unsure, go for adjustable hats or one-size-fits-most socks, which are pretty easygoing options. If it’s a secret Santa exchange or you aren’t sure of their favorite characters, retro-inspired designs focusing on controllers, pixel hearts, or generic power-ups are usually a hit.
Custom Gear to Take Up a Notch in Style and Show Fandom
If you aim for something a bit more personal, custom gear inspired by platformer games is a strong pick. Gear featuring unique designs helps fans carry a hint of their favorite game wherever they go, and it feels genuinely thoughtful.
- Custom T-Shirts and Hoodies: Hunt for apparel that sports colorful sprites, catchy game quotes, or striking fan art. Platforms like Etsy, Redbubble, or even local print shops have pages filled with creative, one-of-a-kind designs.
- Personalized Game Controllers: Some online shops let you pick custom shells, engrave names, or add themed graphics based on beloved platformer franchises. This makes the controller not just a tool but also a personal treasure.
- Enamel Pins, Keychains, and Lanyards: These little accessories are perfect for adding personality to bags or jackets. Many indie creators release special pins after hits like Shovel Knight or Ori and the Blind Forest. They’re affordable and carry big fan energy.
- Phone Cases and Laptop Sleeves: A custom-printed phone case or protective sleeve, decked out in pixel art or favorite character images, gives tech a personal, playful edge.
Custom gear works as a gift because it clearly says, “I know what you love.” Each piece – be it a quirky tee or a tricked-out controller – makes gamers feel seen, and that’s a gift in itself. These personal touches step up daily life with a dose of fun.
Wellness Essentials for Long Gaming Sessions
Bingeing platformers or speedrunning Metroidvanias can mean hours at the controller. Well-chosen wellness gifts show you care about comfort as much as fun. A little support can make replaying hard levels or chasing high scores even more enjoyable – and healthier, honestly. Maintaining good habits during those extended sessions is key to long-term enjoyment.
- Ergonomic Controller Grips: For Switch, PlayStation, or Xbox, grips or shell covers keep hands from cramping during long sessions. Especially useful for players with smaller hands or those who game for hours at a stretch.
- Blue Light Blocking Glasses: These reduce eye strain and help gamers recover faster after marathon runs. They’re usually lightweight and available in lots of colors, so you can match the personality of the recipient. Stylish frames now mean they’re hardly distinguishable from regular eyewear.
- Gaming Chair Cushions: Memory foam seat or lumbar pillows add comfort to any chair, whether it’s a classic desk seat or an old couch. Some even have game-themed covers, adding a playful twist while making long stints less taxing.
- Reusable Water Bottles: Hydration sometimes gets overlooked during intense play. Get a sturdy bottle in a color or print that matches their gaming setup; it’s something they’ll use daily. Gamers appreciate practical gifts that blend seamlessly into their routines.
- Fingerless Compression Gloves: These support wrists and fingers, helping with circulation when gaming for hours. Some are even themed with cute gamer symbols, giving some flair to a practical item. Ideal for those who stream or play competitively as well.
Other thoughtful touches include soft microfiber cleaning cloths for screens and controllers, snacks that won’t mess up controllers, and clips for organizing headset wires. Wellness items are both thoughtful and a great reminder to look after oneself during hours of fun.
Handy Accessories for a Next-Level Platforming Experience
Platformers can really heat up, especially during tough boss fights or while attempting that perfect speedrun. The right accessories not only improve comfort but also bring a whole new excitement to play sessions.
- Specialized Controllers: Some players prefer pro controllers with extra sensitive D-pads or programmable buttons for tricky jumps. Retro-style controllers with classic button layouts are especially sweet for fans of the old-school platformers.
- Charging Stations: Nobody likes scrambling for batteries when a boss fight is starting. Charging docks make keeping things powered up a breeze and keep the gaming area tidier at the same time.
- Gaming Headsets: Sound can make or break a platformer game. Crisp, comfy headsets immerse players in epic soundtracks (like Celeste’s emotional tunes or Donkey Kong Country’s catchy beats), helping every moment pop.
- Console Skins and Decals: Adding themed decals not only protects gear but also gives consoles and handhelds a next-level cool look. A Mario or Sonic skin can bring new energy to any device.
These accessories aren’t just practical – they pump up playing sessions, too. Upgrading gear takes the overall experience up a notch, making each jump and coin grab more satisfying and fun for hours at a stretch.
Starter Sets for New Indie Platformer Fans
If you know a gamer who’s just rolling into platformers, a starter bundle with game codes, accessories, and collectibles brings a little bit of everything to the table. You can handpick indie titles from shops like itch.io, Humble Bundle, or the Nintendo eShop. These usually go on sale around holidays, making it easy to collect a wish list for someone you want to spoil. Such bundles introduce new fans to the best of the genre in a budget-friendly way.
- Gift Cards for Game Platforms: Nintendo eShop, Steam, or Xbox store cards let someone choose which platformer to try next; new sales pop up all the time, so they can stretch their gift over several purchases. It’s a safe bet if you’re not sure about someone’s current library or platform preference.
- Indie Game Bundle Codes: Sometimes, digital bundles come with hidden gems that don’t always get big marketing pushes. They’re great for fueling a gamer’s backlog and helping them stumble upon new favorite titles.
- Handmade Collectible Sets: Sites like Etsy have small-batch resin keychains, diorama sets, or magnets inspired by popular levels, checkpoints, or power-ups. These one-of-a-kind pieces are perfect for starting a unique personal collection.
Pairing a digital game code with a physical collectible is a fun way to give something instantly playable as well as something to show off on a shelf. It makes the unwrapping feel a bit more special and memorable. For younger gamers or those who love surprises, including a small guidebook or platformer history zine adds extra flavor to the bundle.
Things to Consider Before Picking a Platformer-Related Gift
Buying for gamers means thinking a bit about personal style, the platforms they use, and whether they enjoy retro, indie, or modern classics. Some people love showing off plushies and prints, while others go for understated game-themed socks or pins.
Here are a few tips that help when deciding:
- Know Their Favorite Franchises or Characters: Some gifts feel a lot more personal if they match a longtime favorite. If you’re not sure, ask what they’re playing lately or peek at their console setup and posters. Even a quick scroll through their social media might drop hints.
- Check for Duplicates: Collectibles and game codes sometimes get traded among friends. If you’re ever unsure, a gift card with a small collectible feels thoughtful and lets them fill in gaps on their own.
- Consider Platform Compatibility: When gifting games, make sure the code matches their console or device. Most stores show platform info clearly, but double-checking never hurts. Always confirm if they’re team Nintendo, Xbox, PlayStation, or PC before purchasing game codes.
- Emphasize Comfort and Care: Wellness items work best if they’re sized right and match the style of gear they already use. For example, not everyone likes big earmuff-style gaming headsets or vivid neon colors in their setup. Go for classic designs and neutral colors when in doubt.
Importance of Ergonomic and Wellness Gear
Taking breaks and staying comfortable is just part of enjoying platformers to the fullest. Things like wrist rests, blue light glasses, and ergonomic controllers are getting more popular as people realize they help during those “just one more run” nights. This kind of gear can give a boost to a gamer’s enjoyment pretty quickly, especially as they go after tough achievements or speedrun records. I find that even a simple hand stretch routine or a soft mouse pad makes a nice difference. Sometimes, investing in wellness gear translates to fewer aches and helps keep the fun going for longer periods.
Limited-Edition Collectibles and Where to Find Them
Sometimes, the coolest gifts are ones you can’t just pick up anywhere. Limited-edition game merch, convention pins, and small-batch art prints can often be found on official merch stores and indie dev shop pages. Prizes from Kickstarter stretch goals or convention exclusives can be tracked down secondhand on dedicated game forums and collector groups. Fangamer, iam8bit, and Etsy are good places to start for authentic finds, and you often support the creators directly with these sites. If you’re shopping for a serious collector, keep an eye on new releases and pop culture events for special drops.
Making the Ultimate Platformer Game Room: Setup Tips and Must-Haves
Plenty of platformer fans dream of an incredible game space brimming with spirit and color. Helping a gamer design the ultimate platformer hideout is a creative adventure and a super thoughtful gift.
Here’s how you can help make it happen:
Furniture and Decor that Pops
- Colorful Shelves for Displaying Collectibles: Open shelves in vibrant colors or a clean black look amazing stacked with figures, plushies, and boxed games.
- Gaming Chairs and Bean Bags: An adjustable, ergonomic chair is a must for long gaming marathons. Retro-style bean bags provide a chill, nostalgic flair, capturing the playful platformer essence.
- Lighting: LED strips, sound-reactive lamps, and neon wall signs bring the room to life and create a wild ambiance for late-night platforming.
- Framed Posters: Well-placed posters give the room energy, tying together a solid visual theme and showing off fan favorites at a glance.
Organization Hacks for a Cleaner Space
- Controller Holders: Stylish stands or wall hooks keep controllers within reach and keep clutter away from the gaming zone.
- Cable Management: Using colorful cable clips, braided sleeves, or themed covers keeps every wire in check – especially useful for setups involving both new consoles and vintage gear.
- Storage Bins: Stackable bins or themed boxes help sort out loose accessories, wires, and game cards, keeping things orderly and easy to find.
Tech Upgrades That Make a Difference
- Wall-Mounted Monitors or TVs: Lifting up the main screen frees up precious desk space and makes platforming action pop right at eye level.
- Quality Speakers or Soundbars: Top-notch sound can make chiptunes and orchestral tracks sparkle. Slim speakers or soundbars add a rich layer to every platforming adventure.
- Retro Consoles or Classic Game Stations: Dedicated corners for retro hardware – or mini consoles packed with classics – set the mood for those who appreciate the golden age of platformers. Even new gamers can discover timeless gems on modern setups.
Stepping up a game room is all about mixing function with fun. From personalized lighting to clever organization, every detail builds a lasting space the platformer lover will adore.
Common Questions About Gifting Platformer Game Goodies
Here’s a roundup of questions people ask most when looking for a present for the platformer junkie in their life – and some honest answers to make picking the perfect gift a breeze.
Question: What collectible is best for someone who already owns a lot of platformer merchandise?
Answer: Try pins, signed art prints, or handmade dioramas from indie sellers; they’re usually produced in small numbers and offer a unique touch that’s less likely to be a duplicate.
Question: How can I choose a platformer game as a gift without accidentally buying an extra copy?
Answer: Go for a storefront gift card, or ask what games they’re planning to try next. Pairing a code with a personalized collectible creates a cool minibundle and feels thoughtful even if they already have one of the games.
Question: What works for both classic and modern platformer fans?
Answer: Collectibles like plush toys and figures suit fans from any era. Retro controllers or mini consoles also merge today’s convenience with old-school charm in a way everyone can appreciate.
Question: How do I spot their favorite character or franchise?
Answer: Check out what they post online or scout their current setup for stickers, shirts, and posters tied to a special game – they’re big clues about what they love most.
Question: Are ergonomic gaming accessories really worth it for casual platformer fans?
Answer: Even casual gamers notice a difference in wrist comfort or reduced eye strain. Simple upgrades like padded wrist rests, blue light glasses, or grip covers can be a nice treat that encourages healthy habits during longer play sessions.
Question: What’s a gaming accessory that doesn’t cost much but is still super useful?
Answer: Charging docks, controller grips, and simple cable organizers don’t break the bank but truly make daily playing smoother. Gear that fixes small hassles gets used every day.
Question: Where can I track down unique or custom platformer gifts?
Answer: Online marketplaces like Etsy, Fangamer, or limited releases from indie artists are treasure troves for this stuff. Even official game stores sometimes release exclusive merch after popular launches.
Takeaways on Gifting for Platformer Game Enthusiasts
Picking out gifts for platformer devotees is about giving them something that sparks joy, nostalgia, and playfulness.
Collectibles pack personality onto a shelf, custom gear lets their fandom shine in day-to-day life, and handy accessories step up their gameplay in style. Helping craft that ultimate gaming room or offering up a thoughtful surprise after a new game lands signals you really “get it” when it comes to their passion.
Here’s wishing your favorite gamer tons of perfect jumps, secret discoveries, and epic platforming moments – happy gifting!
