It is well documented at this point that supply chain issues are going to make holiday shopping difficult this year. Phil Spencer, the big man in charge of Xbox, has said that they will have shortages throughout the end of the year as well. We definitely recommend looking early and often if the Xbox Series S or X are on your family’s Christmas list.
Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl
Lots of games have tried to clone Super Smash Brothers to find success. But, we haven’t seen anything like All-Star Brawl before. Game Mill Entertainment has combined the deep roster of Nickelodeon licenses like Spongebob, Avatar, and Ninja Turtles with retro gameplay that is reminiscent of Super Smash Bros. Melee.
This is also as close to the original as one can get without owning a Nintendo Switch and actually buying Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2
Everyone of a certain age will have memories of playing Tony Hawk on their PS1 in their dorm room. (Ok. Might just be me.) This is a well done remaster of the first two games of the series. It is gorgeously remade and includes some quality of life improvements that will help us share the game with our kids as we remember it (as opposed to how it actually was).
Game Pass
One of the biggest reasons to choose Xbox over other consoles is the immense value of Xbox Game Pass. Below is a list of just a few of the highlights that you may want to download ahead of the big day with your Game Pass Subscription.
Forza Horizon 5
Forza Horizon 5 is the latest in the long running series and this time takes place in Mexico. This is an arcade style racing game designed to be much more accessible to the general public than a lot of other racing simulators out there. The gameplay and settings are gorgeous to look at and set the bar for all others out there. This is the perfect fit for any racing fanatic on your list.
HALO Infinite
HALO is one of the biggest franchises on Xbox. Infinite is the latest entry and is going to be a highlight of the lineup this year. The story mode is taking a turn from tradition by including open world exploration which is exciting in and of itself. But, the multiplayer modes are going to be where a lot of the action is.
Mighty Goose
Longtime EFG fans know that we love games with a little bit of absurdity in them. Mighty Goose is a side scrolling tank game where you play as a goose. It is colorful, fun, and hysterical. Definitely worth a download.
Marvel’s Avengers
There are few times where it is possible to absolutely maximize your “bang for your buck” during the holiday shopping season, this is one of those chances. While this is not a new title, Marvel Avengers is a recent addition to Xbox Game Pass and includes all the available DLC. If someone you know has been on the fence about downloading this game, now is the time.
Xbox Live Gold / Xbox Game Pass Ultimate
Supply chain issues abound this year. It will likely be challenging to find games to wrap up and give as gifts. There will likely be chances to pick up gift cards for Xbox Live and Game Pass subscriptions. These are “practical” gifts (or at least as practical as anything game-related could be). But, they will be appreciated nonetheless.
EFG Essentials
If you are looking for more recommendations than what we list here, then check out our Xbox essentials list.
What do you think? Sound off in the comments and let us know your thoughts!
Make sure to keep your eyes on Engaged Family Gaming for all of the latest news and reviews you need to Get Your Family Game On!
- Video Games for kids on Xbox One
- Video Games for kids on PS4
- Video Games for kids on Nintendo Switch
- Board Games for kids
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Michael Duetzmann 
Stephen Duetzmann
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