Unique Gifts for the Toy and Game Lover in Your Life
Some people are just flat-out hard to shop for. You know the ones…the family and friends who say, “Just get me whatever” and then fake-smile when they receive it? Yep. We’re talking about them.
And when that person just so happens to be a child in an adult-sized body? Well, finding the perfect gift reaches a whole new level of difficulty—especially when you don’t have time to sort through the millions of (sometimes) cool gadgets and gizmos out there.
But no worries, ‘cause this time around, we’ve done the legwork for you! Check out the unique list of gifts below, which are sure to make your loved one geek out in the best way.
Brass Spinning Top
Is your hard-to-buy-for person someone who deeply values productivity? Do they struggle to concentrate or destress? If you answered yes to any of those questions, then this Bronze Spinning Top is the gift for you (Well, for you to give them, but ya know what we mean). Considered what Gen Zers are calling fidget toys, spinning tops are known for helping people redirect their focus for short periods of time by increasing the brain’s dopamine levels—a feel-good chemical associated with enhanced sleep, productivity, concentration, time management, happiness, and much more.
And this spinning top by Bruce Charles Designs is mesmerizing and truly one-of-a-kind. Made purely of metal, it’s extra snazzy and extra durable—ideal for all the collectors out there. And since it’s small and light enough to fit in a pocket or purse, it’s perfect for just about any setting where your loved one might experience stress: home, work, waiting rooms, etc.
Ready to fill that someone’s mental cup? Order here.
Marble Chess Set
Chess is one of the oldest games in the world, making it the “OG” of board games. And it’s no coincidence that it’s lasted so long. People love playing it! Young, old, it brings individuals together no matter their skill-set, and game enthusiasts are by no means an exception.
While chess sets across the board (excuse the pun) have the same primary elements, their functions may vary, with some designed purely for decorative purposes and others for regular enjoyment. We suggest going with the best of both worlds, this European Junior International Chess Set by Wegiel. Hand-carved and consistently ranked one of the best on the market, this chess set boasts classic design and contemporary craftsmanship all at once. And, made of both beech- and birchwood, it too will last generations.
Liquid Timer
How many times have you heard, “I’m so stressed out,” or “Oh no, I lost track of time!” recently? How many times have you said one of those yourself? Exactly. Anxiety and time blindness have become some of the biggest issues adults face today. And this liquid timer is a colorful way to combat both.
In contrast to disassociating, which is what many of us do during anxious moments, this toy encourages emotional regulation by providing a soothing display of colors that calms the nervous system, stimulates the senses, and pulls the mind away from current pressures or concerns. And because its dual-colored bubbles move in minute-long sequences, it really does help with time management! So, whether it’s timing a brain break or the last few minutes of the day, this toy is a super fun tool anybody can use. And we’re betting it’s one your picky loved one lacks.
Carrom Board
If you aren’t familiar with this game, you aren’t alone. Supremely popular in South Asia, Carrom Board has yet to be adopted by mainstream North America. Which is kind of a shame—because it’s a heck of a lot of fun!
The game involves two players, each of whom are given nine small pucks (typically black for one player and red for the other). They share a striker, a different colored puck, which they each take turns flicking. The goal? Hit the other player’s pucks into the two holes opposite them on the board using the striker, and then, when all those are gone, shoot the striker in as well. If a player hits one of their opponent’s pieces into a hole, they get to flick again.
If you’re looking for a gift that’s distinct and crazy fun, this is the one! No way will it let your game-player down. Find our favorite Carrom Board on Etsy.
Mini Basketball Game
For adults who are children at heart, childhood dreams may no longer be a possibility, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t still very much alive. With this Mini Basketball Game, your loved one’s professional-athlete dreams can become a reality—even from the desk of their actual job.
Like the other toys we’ve mentioned, this wooden apparatus is too enticing to avoid, proven to convince even the most earnest workers to pause throughout the day. And, it’s harder than it looks, guaranteed to challenge the hand-eye coordination of novices and masters of the game alike.
Shooting for an amusing yet practical gift? Here’s your slam-dunk.