Gamers are spoiled for choice this year, with two new consoles and dozens of new release video games out now and coming soon.
We've taken an in-depth look at the latest games and gaming accessories to make sure that the gamer in your life is all sorted this Christmas.
CONSOLES AND HARDWARE
Nintendo Switch OLED ($539) - When it comes to gaming consoles, you'll struggle to find stock in the PlayStation and Xbox markets. This is where Nintendo comes in, they've just released their new version of the Switch, it's more expensive, and deservedly so. The Nintendo Switch OLED is the best Switch you can buy and it's impossible not to love Animal Crossing, Mario Kart, Super Smash Bros and more.
Nintendo Switch Lite, from $279 - If you're looking for the latest gaming at a more affordable price point, the Nintendo Switch Lite as you covered. All the latest from Nintendo at your fingertips. Unlike the original Nintendo Switch console, the Lite won't be able to connect to your TV.
Playstation 5 and Xbox Series X ($599 to $749)- Both continue to be hard to find on shelves so pre-order if you don't want to pay overs to scalpers on eBay. After one year on the market both the PS5 and Xbox Series X are starting to hit their stride, with loaded line-ups in 2022.
VR
HTC VIVE Pro 2 VR ($2199) - One of the best VR kits to use at home and one of the most expensive. You'll need a powerful PC for it to run too, but the VIVE Pro 2 is hyper-responsive and matches its combined 5K resolution with a wonderful 120-degree viewing angle for an incredibly immersive experience. Check out Mark Santomartino's full review here.
Oculus Quest 2 ($479) - If you're looking for a more affordable VR experience, take a look at the Oculus Quest 2. This all-in-one VR kit doesn't require all the extra bells and whistles to get going and you don't need a powerful PC to play the latest games.
ACCESSORIES
HEADSETS AND AUDIO
Turtle Beach Recon 70 ($59) - 40mm over ear speakers and a flip up to mute microphone. Turtle Beach's Recon 70 is ideal for console gamers, the 3.5mm jack with plug in to most Xbox Series X|S and PlayStation 5 controllers.
RIG 100HC Headset ($25) - If you're looking for an excellent headset on a budget, RIG's 100HC won't let you down. It's compatible with all consoles as well as PC. We reviewed RIG's 500 PRO HC earlier this year.
Razer Barracuda X ($149) - Lightweight, wireless, rechargeable and has an optional microphone attachment - perfect for the casual gamer. If you're looking to pair these over Bluetooth with your iPhone, you may need to look elsewhere. The Barracuda X is available from JB HiFi and Optus.
KEYBOARDS AND MICE
HyperX Pulsefire Haste ($70) - This mouse is one of the lightest on the market, weighing in at just 59 grams. While it might not be wireless, the cord will not slow you down. This lightweight mouse is perfect for fast-paced gaming.
HyperX Alloy Origins ($169) - It may be small, but this mechanical feels great and looks the part. Each key is backlit with RGB lighting and is estimated to withstand 80 million key presses.
ROCCAT Magma Keyboard ($99) - RGB backlit keys and silent "membrane" keys, It's one of the better keyboards in its price range. This keyboard also comes with a detachable palm rest, it's out now and exclusive to JB Hifi.
VIDEO GAMES
There's no shortage of new games to load up on this Christmas. From Halo to Far Cry to Pokémon, there's dozens of new games for everyone.
Halo Infinite (Xbox)- The full campaign doesn't drop until December 8, but if the free multiplayer beta is anything to go buy, Master Chief is back to his best. Look out for our full review of Halo Infinite in the coming weeks. 9News recently say down with the head of Xbox Phil Spencer.
Jurassic World Evolution 2 (Xbox, PlayStation) - Jurassic World Evolution 2, it's the sequel that fixes everything that wasn't quite right with the original. Build the Jurassic Park of your dreams, with newly introduced flying and deep-sea dinosaurs. Jurassic World Evolution 2 is a must-have for any dino or theme park tycoon fan.
Ghosts of Tsushima Director's Cut (PS5) - A must-buy on PlayStation 5, even if you've played it all before on PS4. Ghost of Tsushima Director's Cut takes an already beautiful game and its story to another level and expands to a new island in interesting ways.
Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy (PlayStation, Xbox and PC) - Brand new Guardians of the Galaxy story, fresh gameplay, and pure cosmic-comedy. The Guardians of the Galaxy video game is a welcome addition to the franchise. Full review here.
NBA 2K22 (PlayStation, Xbox and PC) - Basketball diehards will always appreciate a new 2K game, but the extreme emphasis on microtransactions and a painful grind in MyTeam distract from an otherwise great simulation of the sport.
Forza Horizon 5 (Xbox) - Forza Horizon 5 is equal parts gorgeous and fun. A true showcase of the Series X graphical power that strikes a balance between racing and high-speed exploration. Click here for our review.
Metroid Dread (Nintendo Switch) - Thrilling as it is challenging, Metroid Dread isn't for the faint-hearted but rewards those who master Samus Aran through a phenomenal - and much deserved - climax to a story last told 19-years ago.
Far Cry 6 (PlayStation, Xbox and PC) - While it may not claim game of the year, Far Cry has again proven that you don't need a clean slate for success. The latest in the franchise sees actor Giancarlo Esposito take the reins of bad guy Anton Castillo in this open world action-adventure. Our review can be found HERE.
Riders Republic (PlayStation, Xbox) - The latest video game title by Ubisoft utilises real world locations to create an intricately detailed and colourful world, designed specifically for extreme sports. Learn more about Riders Republic here.
Call of Duty Vanguard (PlayStation, Xbox and PC)- The latest in the Call of Duty franchise takes players back to World War 2 from a new perspective. Check out our interview with the game's creators.
Evil Genius 2: World Domination (Playstation, Xbox and PC) - Sequel to 2004's Evil Genius, build the ultimate evil lair and prepare for world domination. If you're into theme park tycoon-style games, this one's for you. Evil Genius 2 is out now.
Mario Party Superstars (Nintendo Switch) - An easy nostalgia play for anyone who owned a Nintendo 64. Superstars combines some of the best mini games to play on five favourite boards from the first three Mario Parties and is excellent with friends on the couch or online.
MULTIPLAYER/ONLINE GAMES
The Elder Scrolls Online: Deadlands (Xbox, PlayStation and PC) - This is the final DLC for the Elder Scrolls Oblivion storyline. Deadlands released at the beginning of November and will conclude a year-long storyline set in the Elder Scrolls world.
JackBox Party Pack 8 (Xbox, PlayStation, iOS and PC) - Five new party games to play with your friends. You don't need a specific console or PC to play this game, it can simply be controlled through your mobile phone or tablet.
Final Fantasy XIV: Endwalker (PlayStation and PC) - Now up to its fourth expansion, this MMORPG has amassed millions of players since its 2010 release. Grab it from December 7, just in time for Christmas.
D&D Starter Set - It's not just videogames making our gaming list. Dungeons and Dragons is making a huge comeback, alongside classic card game Magic the Gathering.
FOR THE YOUNG, OR YOUNG AT HEART
L.O.L Surprise! Movie Night (Nintendo Switch) - L.O.L is one of the hottest franchises going around right now. This new game is perfect for those learning to play games and fans of the toys.
PJ Masks: Heroes of the Night (PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch and PC) - Play as Catboy, Owlette, and Gekko in this new PJ Masks adventure. Hero of the Night is out now.
My Friend Peppa Pig (Nintendo Switch, Xbox, PC and PlayStation) - Pure bliss for the kids. This new game sees players create their own character for the Peppa Pig world and explore all the classic locations.
Minecraft Dungeons Ultimate Edition (PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch) - Minecraft is still a phenomenon. The dungeons spin-off is kid friendly and a heap of fun.
Pokemon Brilliant Diamond / Shining Pearl - The latest remake in the Pokémon series sees players go on a familiar journey, with a few added tricks along the way. It's a colourful remake and a perfect introduction to the young Pokémon fan.
GAMING EXTRAS
Arcade1Up Arcade Cabinets, (from $799) - If you're feeling nostalgic, you can now pick up classic arcade gaming machines for around $800. Original games like Mortal Kombat, Ghost n Goblins and Street Fighter are now all available in cabinet form. While the cabinets might be designed around one specific game, they each come with a collection of 12 games. They're available through retailers JB Hifi, Harvey Norman, The Gamesmen and more.
Star Wars R2 D2 Tamagotchi ($40) - Everything old is new again, as the saying goes. And in the case of the Tamagotchi, the classic keychain pet is back with a Star Wars twist. Fan favourite R2D2 can now fit in your pocket. Play, charge, and clean your new little friend in a digital world. A perfect kris-Kringle for the Star Wars geek, young or old. This little device will only set you back about $40, which is way cheaper than a new puppy.
