BrutalGamer’s 2025 Gift Guide

It’s the most wonderful time of the year. And yes, that means a gift guide that’s loaded with our fave stuff from the year that was.

One stuffed gift guide

He’s making a list and checking it twice. Naturally, we’re referencing Old Saint Nick there, though Santa is hardly the only person making out a gift list this Holiday Season. We’ve just rumbled past the biggest shopping days on the calendar after all, and so we’re more than sure that there are plenty of people out there collecting ideas for what to give.

To that end, and as we typically do at Holiday time here at BG, we’ve compiled a gift guide. Our collection of goodies includes some of our favorite things from this past year, just to keep it timely, all of which we think would make for some solid gifting.

So without any further ado, let’s get to it!

ROG Xbox Ally X

Yeah, we kinda started with a biggie. One of the best handheld Windows 11 gaming machines out there at present, the ROG Xbox Ally X is impressive. And yes, that’s even though it’s not really an Xbox. Native console compatibility (or lack thereof) aside though, PC game fans should have one heck of a time with it. The portable includes a beautiful touch-enabled screen, maybe the most comfortable construction ever for the format, and out-of-the-box capabilities that includes both Xbox for PC and Steam compatibility. It might not be the ‘Xbox’ handheld that fans envisioned, but it’s a killer gaming machine for your off-TV (or on) adventures nonetheless.

Our Review
Score: 93%
MSRP: $999.99 USD

Victrix BFG Controller

Those looking to give a new controller that stocks a significant number of bells and whistles might want to cast their gaze towards Turtle Beach. Gamepads might not traditionally be the most interesting giftables, but the peripheral giant’s latest is something a little different. It’s more in line with higher-end controllers, and serves up a ton of options. Players can alter the face to great degree, including multiple stick and control pad options. They can even swap in a fight-pad layout for a completely different experience.

The Victrix Pro BFG Reloaded comes in a trio of models, supporting PC, PS5, and Xbox platforms. The Xbox edition also touts Bluetooth support, for mobile players.

Our Review
Score:
MSRP: $209.99 USD

LEGO The Shire

This year’s Lord of the Rings offering from LEGO is a long-awaited set that followup up on a classic from the company. The Shire is a pretty big time build. It spotlights the film’s version of Bag End, the home of both Bilbo and Frodo, as well as some elements from Bilbo’s 111th birthday, Gandalf’s arrival, and more. It also looks loaded with interior detailing, like Bilbo’s study, and the house’s kitchen hearth. Naturally, it’s a little pricy, but if you have a mega-LotR fan on your list who’s also a LEGO Maniac, it might be a great fit.

MSRP: $269.99 USD

Marvel Comics 1/6th Scale Collectible Figures from HONO Studios

We’ve been covering HONO Studios‘ Marvel line for a while here on BG, and we’re mighty impressed. We can speak from experience that the Iron Man figure is right on target, and quite comparable to other, higher-end, collector lines out there. Actually, the core figure might be a little better, with its awesome translation of one of the most famed Iron Man armors from the comics. The big difference with HONO and those other series’ is that HONO’s figures include a little less in terms of accessories and typically no alternate portraits. On the flip side though, they also slice into what you’d expect to pay by a decent amount. The only down side might be that they’re not the easiest to find in stock right now.

MSRP: Around $200 USD each

RIG 400 Gen 2 HX Headset

If you’ve got a game fan on your list, then chances are that they’d love a new headset. A piece of most players’ arsenals that seemingly could always use an upgrade, headsets serve a number of purposes. For one thing, they can be the optimal way to enjoy a play session. Then there’s the online gaming component, where one with a good mic can be indispensable.

One of our favorites from this past year, the RIG 400 Gen 2 HX hits the mark pretty well on all of the above, plus provides plenty of comfort for longer play. Just be aware that this headset is wired, so if the player on your list prefers to cut the cord, look elsewhere.

Our Review
Score: 90%
MSRP: $39.99 USD

HyperMegaTech! Super Pocket NEOGEO

Another recurring story here on the site is the lineup of pre-loaded handhelds from Blaze Entertainment. You might know them better from their Evercade consoles, but their HyperMegaTech! Super Pocket lineup is pretty killer too. A series of themed-portables that include games from their highlighted publishers, the Super Pocket series added NEOGEO just recently, and this new unit looks to be one of the best of the line. Fans can find a pre-loaded selection of SNK titles included in this new offering, like Metal Slug X, King of the Monsters 2, Samurai Showdown II and more. And when those run their courses, compatible Evercade carts can pop right in. How’s that for expandability?

MSRP: $69.99 USD

iLive 18″ Multimedia Soundbar

iLive’s 18″ Multimedia Soundbar is a nice option for those looking to add some more tunes to their outings. Designed for portability, the relatively small and lightweight speaker has some pretty nice sound, and the ability to crank it up. Just keep in mind that the bass isn’t going to shake your house’s frame, so most tracks sound a little better on lower volume settings. On top of the music, it’s got some cool (and customizable) lighting as well. Also neat? This little guy sports USB and AUX inputs, plus Bluetooth connectivity and the ability to accept Micro SD cards. Pretty versatile for the cost.

MSRP: $29.88 USD

Switch 2 console

Nintendo’s first Switch had a massive audience, and the Switch 2 looks to be just as big if not bigger. It’s been selling boat-loads after all, and looks to be another smash for the company. The console is bigger and more powerful than its forebear, has some cool gimmicks going for it, like the ability to use joy-cons as mice, and a decent year one lineup.

While we would’ve liked to have seen a new Mario title, Mario Kart World, Donkey Kong Bananza, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, and a host of updated Switch titles make for an undeniably solid slate of offerings. As such, we have to imagine that any Switch fan who hasn’t upgraded yet would be into finding a Switch 2 under the tree.

MSRP: $499.99 USD with Mario Kart World included, $449.99 USD without

Razer Iskur V2 X: Core Ergonomic Gaming Chair

Okay, so seating might not be your number one choice to give for the Holidays. Thing is, Razer’s Iskur V2 X: Core Ergonomic Gaming Chair looks to be some really nice seating. Made with gaming in mind, the chair touts flexible seat positioning, breathable fabric (a great feature), integrated lumbar support and a wider seat. All of that should make for a much more comfortable sitting experience especially for those who play into the wee hours. The Iskur was just released in gray this year too, and we really dig the look. It’s one that could seemingly fit in as well behind a work desk as a gaming station.

MSRP: $299.99 USD, and goes up to $399.99 USD

Playmates Classic Sewer Lair Playset

Do you have a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles fan on your list? Might it be one who’s old enough to remember the origins of the toys line back in the 80s? If so, there might be no better gift than the Classic Sewer Lair Playset from Playmates. This remake of the iconic play environment, originally released in 1989, is a fairly faithful re-creation of the original in every way. Yes, the materials feel a bit different, but other than that, it’s spot on, and makes for some killer shelf-decor.

That’s especially true if you’re buying for someone who already has a selection of either the original action figures, or some of Playmates’ latest reissues.

MSRP: $69.99 USD

Don’t forget the games!

This being BrutalGamer, what would a gift guide be without the games? The year 2025 has been pretty kick-butt as goes major releases, with more than a few for every platform out there, that could strike a chord if you’re gifting. Themes run the gamut too, from fun and cartoony karting to dark horror tales filled with action.

Below we have ten of our most-recommended titles from the year that was. Oh, and these are in no particular order as well (don’t get ahead of us).

• Doom: The Dark Ages
  • A new DOOM saga begins, as this prequel brings the story of the DOOM Slayer back to where it all began (kinda). It’s hard-hitting, loaded with bloody action, and demon-slaying brutality. Stand and fight? Yeah, we think we will.
  • Available for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC

• WWE 2K25
  • The yearly wrestling title from 2K and Visual Concepts returns with another gem. This year’s was loaded with modern and classic superstars (some that need to be unlocked or added via DLC) and some of the best video game wrestling seen yet. Check out our review, here.
  • Available for PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Switch 2, PC
  • Note: Last generation and PC editions do not include The Island play mode

• Sonic Crossworlds
  • Did Sonic outshine Mario? In a year where we got Mario Kart World, Sonic’s latest karting adventure from Sega brought bright and colorful racing action to life as only the blue blur could. For the most part, it’s actually gotten better word of mouth than the aforementioned too, just something for mascot fans to keep in mind.
  • Available for the PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC, Switch. Also available now digitally for the Switch 2, with a physical cartridge coming in 2026

• Mortal Kombat Legacy Kollection
  • A massive amount of klassic Mortal Kombat games are loaded into this gore-soaked new fighting Kollection. Long-time fans of the property will find almost everything up to and including Mortal Kombat 4 onboard. But hang on, because there’s more, with MK Mythologies Sub-Zero, Special Forces and more.
  • Available for the Switch 2, Switch, Xbox Series X|S, PS5, PS4 and PC

• Indiana Jones and the Great Circle
  • One of the the very best (if not the best) games on the Xbox in 2024 came to the PS5 this year. Bethesda’s Indiana Jones and the Great Circle brought a brand new Indy adventure to life, starring the pulp hero when he was young and in the days just before WWII. The first-person action is excellent, as is the exploration and puzzle-solving elements. Is this the adventure that Indy’s latest big screen appearances should have been?
  • Available for the Xbox Series X|S, PS5, PC and coming soon to Switch 2

• Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2
  • A pair of Super Mario classics return for a whole new generation with Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2. Though there’s really not much in the way of new content included in this re-presentation, it’s nonetheless a great way to play the classics on a newer platform. And, for that matter, we have to imagine a good primer for the upcoming big screen movie sequel.
  • Available for Switch, playable on Switch 2

• Donkey Kong Bananza
  • The Switch 2’s killer app? For now anyway, it would appear that Donkey Kong Bananza is exactly that. Launching shortly after the console this past summer, this new DK title sent the title ape into something of a prequel to his classic Donkey Kong Country titles. But this was no rehash, as everything about Bananza is new, from the gameplay to the graphic style. It garnered near-universal acclaim when it hit for the freshly launched Switch 2, and looks to be a gem.
  • Available for the Switch 2

While those are our picks for games, keep in mind that wallet cards, which allow players to top up digital accounts with funds, are always great stocking-stuffers. Those can be bought in several denominations, and would be especially great accompaniments for consoles like the ROG Xbox Ally X and Switch 2.

So there you have it, a sampling of picks that might make someone’s Christmas or Hanukkah a little merrier/happier. Whatever you end up giving or getting though, make sure to have a joyful and happy Holiday Season.

This time of year only drifts though once per calendar, so make the most of it, no matter your situation!