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The ’80s Retro Gaming Gift Guide: Mario, Mega Man, and more

I'm dreaming of a retro Christmas.
Image Credit: GamesBeat

Some people don’t think that the holidays are as fun for as adults as they are for kids. Hogwash! People born in the ’80s can have as merry a time as anyone, especially with some help from nostalgic gifts.

If you have some gamers with a love of the ’80s on your shopping list, we’re here to help. This gift guide will show you some 8-bit gifts that can delight your retro friends and family.


Pixel Pals

Above: Perfect for scaring those Boos away.

Image Credit: Amazon

Price: $15

Buy from: Amazon


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Pixel Pal are battery-operated night lights shaped like classic game characters. While some of them feature ’90s stars like Sonic the Hedgehog, the Mega Man Super Mario Bros. 3 Pixel Pals put the 8-bit all-stars right on your shelf. And they look great when they’re shining in the dark.


Mega Man Crochet Hat

Above: He looks just like Mega Man’s brother who’s a junior at state college.

Image Credit: Think Geek

Price: $20 (on sale now for $10)

Buy from: Think Geek

Mega Man is one of the most recognizable gaming heroes from the ’80s. Part of this is because of his snazzy, blue costume. Now you can help a friend look his Mega Best with this crocheted hat designed just like the Blue Bomber’s helmet. It might even keep him warm from an Ice Man encounter (or a snowy day, I guess).


Commodore 64: A Visual Commpendium

Above: That would look good on any gamer’s coffee table.

Image Credit: Amazon

Price: $34.02

Buy from: Amazon

The ’80s weren’t just about Nintendo. The Commodore 64 was one of the first popular home computers, and it helped establish the PC gaming market. With this book, you can relive the Commodore 64 days with artwork and screenshots from more than 100 games. It also includes profiles and interviews with developers and artists.


Zelda Hydration Cartridge w/Straw

Above: Better than a potion.

Image Credit: Think Geek

Price: $20

Buy from: Think Geek

Why drink from something boring like a cup if could sip from a The Legend of Zelda cartridge? This “bottle” looks just like the original cart for the NES classic, even down to the gold paint.


Classic NES Box Art Canvas Art

Above: For retro walls.

Image Credit: Think Geek

Price: $16

Buy from: Think Geek

Do you know a retro gamer with sparse walls? Help them spruce up their living space with some spiffy canvas art based on the covers for classic NES games. You can choose between Super Mario Bros., Duck Hunt, and Metroid.