Gift ideas for gamers

Shopping for someone who loves video games can be mind-boggling, particularly if you’re not well-versed in the subject. But there are a few things to know this holiday season that can help you plan the perfect present.

Gaming, like most forms of entertainment, is evolving rapidly and going more mobile than ever.

“Gaming doesn’t stop at just one platform, it moves from the desk to the couch to a train, in your hand,” says Bruce Hawver, CEO of SteelSeries, a manufacturer of gaming accessories. “Gamers need to be able to seamlessly choose where, when and how they play their game without sacrificing the quality of the experience.”

Whether you’re shopping for a recreational hobbyist or a serious professional gamer, here are some great ways to make to his or her holiday season a merrier one:

Mobile gaming has suffered in the past due to the technical limitations of mobile devices. Light on graphics and animation, games trended toward simple and slow. But that’s changing as mobile devices become more powerful, provide more speed and have an extended battery life. Give your gamer the gift of the best mobile gaming experience possible with the latest iPhone, Android phone or Tablet.

For example, the ASUS Transformer Pad Infinity TF700, which transforms between notebook and tablet, has a high-resolution screen, an extended battery life and is also one of the fastest android tablets available.

Just be sure you protect the gear you purchase with a durable case, as newer devices can crack and scratch easily.

Some games are made for finger swiping, but thousands require better control. Help your gamer gain better precision while on-the-go with a mobile controller that is compact, lightweight and compatible with different devices. For example, the SteelSeries Free Wireless Mobile Controller is a pocket-sized Bluetooth controller designed for cross-platform use on PC/Mac, Android Smartphones and Tablets, iPod touch, iPhone and iPad. Great for long trips, its lithium ion battery lasts an estimated 10 hours of nonstop playtime, and can be charged by plugging in a USB/mini cable to your computer or mobile device.

Or consider improving the mobile gaming experience with better sound via a modern, compact and comfortable headset. The SteelSeries Flux Headset, for instance, is small in stature but delivers loud and clear sound. It also has an audio port on each earcup, allowing multiple users to plug headsets into the same flux and share sound.

More information on mobile gaming accessories for the holidays via can be found at www.SteelSeries.com.

Help your gamer stay on top of new trends with a subscription to a gaming publication like “Game Informer.” Typically, these publications come with great benefits, such as exclusive discounts on games and accessories. For more information, visit www.gameinformer.com.

As the nature of gaming changes with the times, so does the gear that goes with it. This holiday season, you can help your favorite gamers maintain their competitive edge with the latest tools, accessories and knowledge.