How to Gift a Game on Steam, Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch (The Ultimate Gifting Guide)

Gifting a game is one of the best ways to share the joy of gaming with friends and family. Whether it’s for a birthday, a holiday, or just because—each major gaming platform has its own way of letting you send digital games or gift cards. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through how to gift games on:

• Steam
• Xbox
• PlayStation
• Nintendo Switch

Let’s break it down step-by-step, so you can send that game with confidence.

How to Gift a Game on Steam

Steam offers one of the most seamless digital game gifting experiences. However, you must purchase the game as a gift before adding it to your own library.

Step-by-Step: Gifting a Game on Steam

1. Log in to Steam
   Open the Steam client or use the Steam website.
2. Find the Game
   Search for the title you want to gift in the Store tab.
3. Add to Cart
   Click "Add to Cart" on the game’s store page.
4. Choose “Purchase as a Gift”
   Instead of “Purchase for myself,” select “Purchase as a Gift.”
5. Select the Recipient
   You’ll see a list of your Steam friends. Choose who to send it to.
6. Add a Personal Message (Optional)
   Include a greeting, message, or even a digital card.
7. Complete the Purchase
   Pay using your preferred method. The recipient will get an email and in-client notification.

Important: You cannot gift a game that’s already in your library.

How to Gift a Game on Xbox

Microsoft makes gifting easy through the Xbox Store. You’ll need the recipient’s email address or gamertag.

Step-by-Step: Gifting a Game on Xbox

1. Navigate to the Microsoft Store
   On your Xbox console or through a browser.
2. Find the Game You Want to Gift
   Make sure it’s a digital copy (not all games are giftable).
3. Click “Buy as Gift”
   This option will appear under the purchase button.
4. Enter Recipient Info
   Use either the recipient’s Xbox gamertag (if they’re a friend) or their email address.
5. Add a Message (Optional)
   Personalize your gift.
6. Confirm and Pay
   The recipient will receive a redemption code via email or message.

Tip: The recipient must be in the same region as the sender for the gift to work.

How to Gift a Game on PlayStation

PlayStation unfortunately does not allow direct gifting of digital games. However, you can work around this limitation with PlayStation Store gift cards.

Workaround: Gifting on PlayStation with Gift Cards

1. Buy a PlayStation Store Gift Card
   Available from retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart.
2. Send the Digital Code
   You can email the code or print it as a physical card.
3. Let Them Choose the Game
   The recipient redeems the code in the PlayStation Store and buys the game of their choice.

Bonus: Some retailers let you purchase specific game download codes (e.g. Amazon or Best Buy).

How to Gift a Game on Nintendo Switch

Nintendo also doesn’t allow direct gifting of games via the eShop, but you can still make someone’s day with gift cards or digital codes.

Workaround: Gifting on Nintendo Switch with eShop Cards or Codes

1. Buy a Nintendo eShop Gift Card
   Denominations include $10, $20, $35, $50, etc.
2. Send the Code to the Recipient
   Share via email or write it in a greeting card.
3. Recipient Redeems Code
   They enter the code in the eShop and buy any game they like.

Alternative: Buy a Digital Game Code

Some third-party retailers let you:

• Buy a specific game code
• Email the code to your recipient

Examples include:

• Amazon
• GameStop
• Walmart

Bonus Tips for Game Gifting

• Check Region Locks: Especially on Xbox and Steam, ensure the game version works in the recipient’s country.
• Friend Them First: Some platforms (like Steam) require you to be friends for a few days before gifting.
• Use Secure Payment Methods: Always buy from official stores or trusted retailers.

Final Thoughts

Digital game gifting is easier than ever—when you know the right steps. Whether you’re using Steam’s built-in tools or gifting via cards on PlayStation and Nintendo, there’s always a way to make someone’s gaming day.

Pro Tip: Want to make it extra special? Send a message, meme, or game trailer along with your gift to build up the hype.

Support.Com Can Help!

If you’re still having trouble, consider reaching out to Support.Com for a personalized solution to all technical support issues.