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The Best iPad, iPod, and iPhone Gaming Gifts

By , About.com Guide

While the iPod started out as a dedicated music player, with the introduction of the iOS and games to the App Store, the iPod touch, iPhone, and iPad have become some the world's leading video game systems. We all have video gamers on our gift lists this holiday season. These are some options that will keep them entertained for the coming year.

1. iPad

Apple iPadimage copyright Apple Inc.

With its big screen, motion controls, and access to the 250,000-plus apps at the App Store, the iPad is a terrific mobile gaming platform. It's less portable than the iPod touch, but if your gamer likes watching movies on the go or reading eBooks, the iPad could be the right gift for them.

2. iPod touch

4th Generation Apple iPod touchimage copyright Apple Inc.

For gamers who want a more portable device then the iPad, the 4th generation iPod touch is a great choice. It offers most of the  features of the iPad (though with a smaller screen) and adds cameras, HD video recording, and the high-resolution Retina Display screen.

3. Game Controllers

Marware Game Gripimage copyright Marware

While the combination of the multi-touch screen and sensors built into the iPad and iPod touch offer great controls, accessory manufacturers have developed add ons to assist gamers. If you've seen any video game console controllers - and you can bet your recipient has - these will look familiar. Gamers who demand high performance may appreciate these. Controllers are available from:

4. iPad Arcade Stand

ION Audio iCadeimage copyright ION Audio LLC
If you, or your game-loving gift recipient, miss the good old days of stand-up arcade gaming, then ION Audio's iCade is for you. This case houses your iPad and connects a joystick and series of buttons to it via Bluetooth. For now, only classic games--think Centipede and Asteroids--are supported, but hopefully others will be coming soon. Expect to pay around $100 for this retro-goodness.
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5. Remote-Controlled Plane or Car

Silverlit Interactive Bluetooth Remote Control Enzo Ferrari Carimage copyright SilverLit

Wish that the gamer in your life would got off the couch and into the outdoors a little more often? Maybe they will with these remote-control toys. The Parrot AR.Drone is a plane that comes equipped with two cameras and can be flown using an app on an iPad, iPod touch, or iPhone. The car is recreation of a Ferrari and is driven via an app that connects the car to your iOS device by Bluetooth.

Compare Prices on the Parrot AR.Drone | Buy the Silverlit Interactive Bluetooth Remote Control Enzo Ferrari Car at Apple

6. Games

app store logoimage copyright Apple Inc.

If you're looking for a more affordable gift, consider giving games from the App Store. Most cost between US$1 and $15. If you want your gift to be a surprise, though, print out the gift information and give it, that rather than sending it via email.

7. iTunes Gift Card

itunes gift cardimage copyright Apple Inc.
If you prefer to let your gift recipients choose their own games to buy, an iTunes Gift Card is the way to do it. Load it up with from US$15-$100 to keep your gamer happy for weeks or months to come.

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