Mark Zuckerberg found himself on the stand yesterday, facing a lawsuit that claims Meta platforms like Instagram and Facebook are intentionally designed to hook kids. Before the real legal drama began, though, the judge had to lay down the law about smart glasses, specifically those snazzy Meta Ray-Bans worn by some of Zuckerberg’s team, as reported by Techspot. It seems Judge Carolyn Kuhl isn’t a fan of recording devices in her courtroom, and she made that abundantly clear.
The judge warned anyone wearing smart glasses that using their recording features would lead to contempt of court charges. She told everyone, “If you have done that, you must delete that, or you will be held in contempt of the court.” It’s a pretty serious warning, and it came after at least two people on Zuckerberg’s escort team were spotted wearing the Meta Ray-Ban glasses as they entered the building.
California Superior Courtrooms have strict rules against recording and photography. If you’re caught breaking these rules, you could face monetary penalties, get removed from the courtroom, or even be charged with contempt of court. It’s a big deal, and the judge wasn’t messing around.
This incident just highlights a growing concern with smart glasses: privacy
While Meta’s Ray-Ban glasses are supposed to show a blinking LED when they’re recording, it’s possible to modify them to hide that light. We saw a similar situation in August 2025 when a TikTok user shared her experience at a European Wax Center in Manhattan. She noticed her aesthetician was wearing Meta Ray-Bans, which understandably made her feel a bit “shaken.”
The worker claimed the batteries were dead, and the company later stated their employees keep the glasses turned off during appointments. Still, it just shows how sensitive the public is becoming to these devices and their potential for discreet recording.
Judge in Meta addiction trial warns that anyone wearing smart glasses, such as Ray-Ban Meta models, risks contempt of court charges if they use the devices to record proceedings.
The admonition came during Mark Zuckerberg's testimony in Los Angeles Superior Court. pic.twitter.com/WhGStsGrID
Back in the courtroom, the actual case, K.G.M. v. Meta et al., is much more serious than a smart glasses kerfuffle. This lawsuit involves a 20-year-old Californian identified as Kaley, who alleges that her years of using Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Snapchat as a child led to severe issues like body dysmorphia, depression, and self-destructive thoughts. TikTok and Snap Inc., which owns Snapchat, have already settled their parts of the case, leaving Meta to face the music.
During his testimony, Zuckerberg did admit that some people lie about their age when signing up for Instagram. The platform requires users to be 13 or older, but that rule hasn’t always been enforced in the same way. Plaintiff’s lawyers presented internal documents from 2015 that showed over 4 million Instagram users in the US were under 13 years old.
It’s interesting to note that Instagram didn’t even start requiring birthdays at sign-up until late 2019. Kaley, the plaintiff in this case, reportedly joined Instagram when she was just 9 years old. When asked why Instagram didn’t ask for user ages before 2019, Zuckerberg said it was due to privacy concerns. However, he never gave a direct answer when asked if Instagram was addictive.
Meta is making its biggest play yet in the political arena, launching what’s set to be its largest push to back political candidates in the company’s history. This significant move comes at a time when the social media giant is dealing with a lot of negative attention and some of its toughest legal challenges ever.
The company is kicking off a massive $65 million effort ahead of this year’s midterm elections, as reported by MS Now. The goal is to boost state politicians who are friendly to the artificial intelligence industry, with initial efforts focusing on Texas and Illinois. This is a record-breaking sum for Meta’s election investments.
Company representatives have indicated that this huge investment is fueled by worries over potential regulatory threats to the artificial intelligence industry. Meta is looking to fight back against legislation in various states that it fears could slow down or hinder AI development. It’s a pretty clear signal that they want to shape the future of AI without too much government interference.
What’s really interesting is that Meta isn’t picking sides; they’re backing both Democrats and Republicans
They’re using two different super PACs to do this. One group, called Forge the Future Project, is throwing its weight behind Republican candidates. The other, Making Our Tomorrow, is supporting Democrats. These new PACs are joining two others Meta already had, one of which focuses specifically on California, while the other is a broader organization that funds the company’s spending in other states.
For years, Meta and its CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, have shown support for President Donald Trump, who, in turn, has pushed to stop states from regulating companies that invest in artificial intelligence tools. So, in a way, what Meta is doing now with this spending spree feels a lot like the bold, almost oligarchic behavior we’ve seen from other tech leaders who use their financial power to influence midterm elections and the political system more generally.
NEWS:
Meta is about to start a $65 million midterms push — its biggest political effort in its 20 years in business.
Meta is standing up two super PACs that this week will drop money in races in Texas and Illinois to push A.I.
However, I think there’s a unique level of public frustration directed at Meta and its platforms right now. You can see it in the numerous lawsuits they’re facing and the public condemnations from former employees. In recent years, the company has had to navigate various scandals where its algorithm-based platforms have been accused of being used to undermine democracy, facilitate child predation, and even incite violence, including in the lead-up to January 6, 2021.
Meta is currently fighting multiple lawsuits, some of which could be landmark cases. These lawsuits accuse its executives of knowingly creating products with addictive qualities that have been particularly harmful to children. The company, for its part, has denied these claims. Beyond the legal battles, Meta is also looking to expand its number of data centers, those massive, resource-intensive facilities that have drawn significant criticism from communities across the nation.
With all of this in mind, Meta’s decision to back candidates this election cycle presents a pretty big question for voters. It makes you wonder whether, and to what extent, people will support a candidate who is financially backed by a company that operates some of the world’s most widely criticized platforms.
MOP’s Justin has joked, darkly, that the Ashes of Creation fiasco is shaping up to be the next-gen 38 Studios, and I am sad to admit he is probably right – it’s another failed MMORPG that we’ll be stuck talking about for the next 10 years thanks to lawsuits and countersuits that most definitely will […]
Join us for our weekly open thread! We're discussing what MMOs we're playing this weekend and answering a bonus question about movies you've somehow never seen...
This week’s Massively Overthinking is inspired by a tweet I saw from SMITE, of all games, where the Hi-Rez devs asked players to propose one god to delete from the game. Obviously, this is not a serious proposition, but in the aggregate, the answers can kinda show a trend in what people are tired of, […]
Meta Corporation will undergo a significant restructuring within its Reality Labs division, which deals with the metaverse and virtual reality technologies. Among those affected will be gaming teams.
Meta said it's shifting focus for Horizon Worlds to be "almost exclusively mobile" and that it will separate its Quest VR platform from the virtual world.
The last few years have been quiet on the legal issues in games, but in true 2025 fashion, this year was a legal drama-llama. Granted, maybe a little bit more on the “Ally McBeal” side of legal drama than the “Matlock.” But hey, I’m here for it. From corporate-facepalm shenanigans to Roblox spending another year […]
The informational hits keep on coming for Elder Scrolls Online’s big ol’ March content patch, and while most of the attention has been centered on its seasons and monetization reshuffling, there’s a variety of things also landing in Update 49, namely a refresh of the Dragonknight class. The tweaks to the Dragonknight primarily focus on […]
So 2025 marks the 11th year in a row when we have put together a roundup of all the MMORPG-tinged science topics we covered this year, and I’m noticing two trends worth pointing out. First, the number of MMORPGs that are running polls and surveys to actually ask their players what they think about things […]
Welcome back to MassivelyOP’s annual awards for one more special honoree. Readers will remember that a few years ago, we decided to institute a lifetime achievement award specifically to honor an MMORPG that has made a significant contribution to the genre over the course of its lifetime and the genre’s history but may not be […]
before we go any further, let’s establish some ground rules: the word I shouted was “fjord” I will not explain why I shouted “fjord” the questions about my t-shirt that says “fjord is a mating ritual for me” are all answered by the presence of my t-shirt and I will not answer further questions about […]
Today we’re finishing up our traditional countdown of MassivelyOP’s weirdest MMORPG stories of the year, that year being 2025! Coming in at #1 on our list is… Oh come on, you knew it was War Thunder again This award has been a tradition since 2021, when it first became mainstream news that military nerds were […]
Welcome back to MassivelyOP’s annual MMORPG awards for 2025! Today’s award is for the MMORPG of the Year, which was awarded to Throne & Liberty last year. Longtime readers will recall that way back in 2014, our staff was so disillusioned with the new MMOs launching that we withheld this award and picked “nothing” as our […]
You know, for all the MMORPGs we cover here on MassivelyOP, the ones that speak to me personally enough to actually capture my precious free time are few and far between. In 2025, while I at least dipped a toe into a long list of games, the ones I submerged in can be counted on […]
So here we are, at the top of a new year, 12 whole months of screwing around in video games laid out before us. In tonight’s Massively Overthinking, we have but one question: What are you gonna do with those 12 months?! I’m asking our writers and readers to rattle off what they think will […]
Today we’re continuing our traditional countdown of MassivelyOP’s weirdest MMORPG stories of the year, that year being 2025! Coming in at #2 on our list is… Roblox’s Grow A Garden When I first heard about the viral hit Roblox MMO called Grow A Garden, I was full of snark. I mean, gardening and farming games […]
Welcome back to MassivelyOP’s annual MMORPG awards for 2025! Today’s award is for the Most Anticipated MMO, which was awarded to Star’s Reach last year. This award can be frustrating since many of the games and expansions we’re picking from here haven’t changed much as we’re still waiting on them. We’ll see how it goes in […]
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas again, and to help readers come up with ideas for friends and family who hit the controller hard, we at CGMagazine have compiled our Christmas Gift Guide 2025: The Gamer Edition, filled with great gifts for gamers for the holiday season, so you don’t have to.
With the busy season upon us, CGMagazine has gathered a list of the latest and greatest gaming innovations, so consumers can focus on buying rather than searching for ‘that perfect something’ to make the holiday legendary for family and friends alike. Our Christmas Gift Guide 2025: The Gamer Edition has all the components, accessories, and gadgets consumers need to make Christmas a success behind the sticks and in front of the TV for the upcoming year.
Gaming Laptops
With innovations in gaming laptops becoming increasingly refined each year, it might be time to re-up on hardware for that special someone who still can’t escape their backlog of games. Let’s face it, there’s nothing quite like unboxing a new gaming system, whether PC or console, and giving loved ones a reason to pop the lid on a new PC could be the idea that makes you the coolest parent in the room (or the most punchable).
CGM has spent 2025 testing and reviewing the latest laptop innovations to bring readers the cream of the crop in gaming laptops. Whether that special someone is looking for a lightweight option or a desktop replacement, the Christmas Gift Guide 2025: The Gamer Edition has your six.
Coming equipped with a double whammy of the Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX processor and a robust GeForce RTX 5080 GPU, the Lenovo Legion 9i 18 offers a well-balanced high-end laptop platform that provides a lot of power under the hood for a reasonable cost.
For a more budget-friendly option, the MSI Katana 15 HX series offers a performance-level gaming laptop experience without breaking the bank. The Katana 15 HX has no issues running load-heavy experiences at 60fps, while also delivering solid visuals.
For a gaming laptop outfitted as a “jack of all trades,” the HP Victus 16.1-inch Gaming Laptop could be the right option for users who want high multitasking performance and adaptability for multiple functions.
For an out-of-this-world gaming laptop experience (and for those who don’t have a price limit), the Alienware 18 Area-51 Gaming Laptop “could handle just about anything” thrown at it on “the highest settings” without breaking a sweat.
For those who want another option that is more tablet than laptop (but still has gaming features), the REDMAGIC Astra Gaming Tablet could suffice for those who don’t need a keyboard (but can use one if needed). The REDMAGIC Astra gives gamers another lightweight option to tote around when the PC stays at home.
Unapologetic power: Area-51 was intentionally designed to reach new performance horizons by enabling higher graphics and processor power limits.
Game changing graphics: Designed to push boundaries, RTX 5080 with NVIDIA Max-Q delivers optimized battery life and performance and jaw-dropping graphics fidelity—perfect for those who demand the extraordinary on the go.
Intel Core i9 HX Power for Elite Gaming: Dominate demanding titles with the Intel Core i9-14900HX and its 24-core hybrid architecture, delivering fast load times, high FPS, and smooth multitasking.
GeForce RTX 5070 With Ray Tracing & DLSS 4: Powered by NVIDIA Blackwell, the RTX 5070 delivers stronger ray tracing, higher FPS, faster AI upscaling, and more responsive gameplay—ideal for competitive and cinematic gaming.
【RAM & Storage】This computer comes with 16GB RAM DDR5 | 512GB SSD
【AMD Ryzen 7 7435HS Processor】It is a mid-range CPU for gaming laptops that features 8 Zen 3+ cores and no iGPU.This 16-thread Rembrandt Refresh family processor runs at 3.1 GHz to 4.5 GHz.
The latest handheld gaming craze is here, and what started with the Steam Deck handheld PC experience has now branched into multiple platforms with different designs and tailored experiences for the more avid gamer who needs to stay in the game even when out of the home. CGMagazine has been putting these new handheld PCs through the wringer to determine which is worth playing on (from VR to Legion), and the Christmas Gift Guide 2025: The Gamer Edition has provided answers to the question “which handheld device should I get?” without being asked.
For the latest in the ROG Ally series of handheld gaming PCs, they’ve teamed up with Xbox to bring Xbox branding to the handheld capabilities of the ROG Ally and the ROG Ally X. For the Xbox fans in families that have been extra good this year, the Xbox Ally is a game changer, letting gamers take their console out of the house without the extra weight and need for a display.
The upgraded version of the first-to-market modern handheld gaming PC, the Steam Deck OLED, is also a solid option for PC gamers who ‘have everything.’ With an updated display and more customization options, the Steam Deck is a device that can adapt to many scenarios, including outdoor use.
The updated version of the Lenovo Legion Go, the Lenovo Legion Go 2, comes complete with an updated processor, GPU and RAM but retains a similar size and shape to the original. Lenovo has reworked the overall user experience of the original Legion Go (while carrying over many of the features that made the Legion Go such a unique handheld) to make a true sequel, and a great option in handheld gaming.
For those who have openly wanted a VR headset, the Christmas Gift Guide 2025 suggests the latest Meta Quest 3 and Meta Quest 3S headsets for aspiring reality jumpers. For Xbox fans, not only is there an Xbox option for Meta Quest 3, but the Quest 3S (without the branding) to seamlessly connect to Xbox Game Pass and play existing libraries in a more portable frame. For gamers, VR could be the next frontier to be conquered this Christmas.
XBOX EXPERIENCE BROUGHT TO LIFE BY ROG The Xbox gaming legacy meets ROG’s decades of premium hardware design in the ROG Xbox Ally. Boot straight into the Xbox experience just like a console.
XBOX GAME BAR INTEGRATION Launch Game Bar with a tap of the Xbox button or play your favorite titles natively from platforms like Xbox Game Pass, Steam, Epic Games, or Windows games on the go.
Transform your reality and do everything you love in totally new ways. Welcome to Meta Quest 3S.
Explore thousands of unreal experiences with mixed reality, where you can blend digital objects into the room around you or dial up the immersion in VR.
7.4” diagonal, HDR OLED, 1280 x 800 x RGB, up to 90Hz Refresh rate, High performance touch, <0.1 ms Response time, 1,000 nits peak brightness (HDR), 600 nits (SDR)
Not all gifts for gamers are physical; some of the best gifts can be delivered as a digital service (including Fortnite V-Bucks and other currencies). For our Christmas Gift Guide 2025: The Gamer Edition, a fresh GeForce NOW subscription could be just what a gamer needs to get out of the trenches of their backlog and into a game seamlessly without a weighty download.
GeForce NOW brings the power of an NVIDIA GPU to a device that normally can’t run certain software. This year, GeForce NOW brought the power of NVIDIA GPUs to the Steam Deck, letting players who use their Deck for everything jump into higher-fidelity experiences in the cloud. In the second half of 2025, GeForce NOW implemented RTX 5080 support and NVIDIA DLSS 4 Multi-Frame Generation for streaming up to 5K resolution at 120 frames per second to the service, giving players without a powerful system true power to play. GeForce NOW is our recommendation for our Christmas Gift Guide 2025: The Gamer Edition.
Digital Currency
In-game funds are always considered a servicable gift, especially for younger family members looking for Minecraft Mine Coins, or Fortnite V-Bucks. Younger family members don’t have their own credit cards, so it’s usually a good choice to get redeemable code cards for members to go shopping at a storefront (with parental permission), without ringing up the credit card bill for mom and dad. For our Christmas Gift Guide 2025: The Gamer Edition, digital currency can answer the “what should I get?” question without stress.
Steam Wallet Funds – Steam Gift Cards in denominations of $20 and $50 can be found at any local pharmacy or gift card stand, and can even be purchased off the GameStop website for ease of gift-giving.
Xbox Game Pass/Xbox Currency – Like Steam, Xbox offers gift cards to exchange real currency into either Xbox funds or Xbox Game Pass time, and is a boon for those looking to gift younger family members the right items for Christmas. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate recently jumped in price, but using code cards gets players a significant discount from the secondary market. It’s worth noting that dollar amounts will almost always translate into the same amount digitally, but Xbox Game Pass Ultimate for cheaper is a solid choice.
PlayStation Plus – Like Xbox, PlayStation has its own subscription service that can be purchased as a digital redemption code alongside PlayStation currency.
Nintendo Online + Expansion Pass – Lastly, Nintendo also offers digital currency on its storefront, and has an online subscription service that allows gamers to play from a catalogue of its hit titles. Nintendo Online + Expansion Pass even lets players jump into some N64 titles straight from the dashboard, letting older and younger gamers bridge the gap for the Holiday Season.
GAME PASS ULTIMATE: Play new games on day one, and enjoy hundreds of high-quality games on console, PC, and cloud. Game Pass Ultimate also includes online console multiplayer, EA Play, and other great member benefits.
SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE: From fast-paced action and adventure to timeless classics, family-friendly games, innovative indie titles, brain-teasing puzzles, immersive role playing adventures, and intense shooters. Dive into a world where every gamer can find their next favorite game.
Communication is the best weapon on any battlefield, and for our Christmas Gift Guide 2025: The Gamer Edition, we here at CGMagazine have scoured the depths of the internet for the best possible headsets any gamer could use to get a leg up on the competition. For any price range, the listed headsets below can cover the needs of any Christmas shopper who needs a headset, in and out of battle.
For a more lightweight and colourful option, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3P is a solid choice that provides in-app customized functionality, long battery life, and AI noise cancelling for a user who could use a new pair of ears.
For the racing-savvy (and those who want to match McLaren’s signature Papaya Orange colourway), the Logitech A50 X Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Headset McLaren Racing Edition is a tailored choice specific to racing fans that can provide excellent sound and includes a resting base for pit stops.
For a more budget-friendly, wired headset option, the Turtle Beach Atlas 200 for PlayStation Gaming Headset is a good solution for PlayStation gamers looking for a great deal.
Shoppers who are looking for the best of both worlds (budget and functionality), the latest Razer BlackShark V3 Pro Headset features an undying battery and comfort in spades to keep players on the battlefield and out of the gulag. With both wireless and Razer app functionality, the BlackShark V3 smells when there’s blood on the water.
PRESETS FOR CoD, FORTNITE, AND MORE – Control your audio using the mobile app to hear footsteps better in game. Unlock total audio control with 200+ game presets in the Arctis Companion.
OPTIMIZED FAST CHARGE — Get back into action in a flash with fast charging: 15 minutes equals up to 9 hours playback. A full charge lasts up to 40 hours
HYPERSPEED WIRELESS GEN-2 — Outpace all competition with the fastest wireless technology optimized for ultra-low latency as low as 10 ms, delivering near-instantaneous audio; perfect for clutch plays and split-second decisions
DETACHABLE HYPERCLEAR FULL BAND 12MM MIC — Armed with a large 12 mm capsule, this next-gen full band mic captures every detail of shotcalls clearly and effectively suppresses background noise with a unidirectional pick-up pattern
For families that want to take the player out of the digital blocks of Minecraft and onto LEGO tabletops, the LEGO Minecraft The Mooshroom House serves that purpose without fail. This LEGO house is shaped like a large cow, and features a removable roof for players to check out what’s going on inside. This playset contains 500 pieces and features Minecraft’s Steve in mini-fig form. CGM’s Christmas Gift Guide 2025: The Gamer Edition brings gamers to real life, too!
BUILDABLE PLAYSET – The Mooshroom House is packed with features and characters for an immersive experience and hours of pretend play
6 MINECRAFT TOY FIGURES – Toy figures in this set include Steve, a red mooshroom, baby red mooshroom, brown mooshroom, calico cat and the hostile flying phantom
Not all gifts for gamers are game-related. Sometimes, desks need new decorations and CGM’s Christmas Gift Guide 2025: The Gamer Edition has found a new collaboration between the light-decoration maker Govee and everyone’s favourite glutton, Pac-Man. This new limited-edition pixel light features over 150+ displayable Pac-Man pixelated scenes, and fans can have imagery featuring all four ghosts (and the Pac-Man himself). Decorations could be the perfect gift for gamers in 2025.
Gaming Pixel Light PAC-MAN Edition: Immerse yourself in the iconic world of PAC-MAN! This special edition features 4 exclusive PAC-MAN-themed animations, alongside sharp clarity, smooth motion, and vibrant colors for pixel art or GIFs, Perfect for retro gaming enthusiasts.
Rich Pixel Art & Live Updates: Stay in the game with real-time updates for time, weather, stocks, and NBA/NFL scores! Explore 150+ preset scenes and 4 PAC-MAN-inspired visuals.
Speaking of Pac-Man, for fans who want to travel back to one of the first ever home consoles, and do it in limited edition Pac-Man yellow, they should look no further than this Atari 2600+ re-release. Both the console and joystick are coated in Pac-Man yellow, and the front of the Atari 2600+ is emblazoned with Atari branding (the norm for the console) and Pac-Man with ghosts (not normal for the console). Fans can excavate the past and past 2600+ titles with this limited console on CGMagazine’s Christmas Gift Guide 2025, and this console plays both Atari 2600 and Atari 7800 original game cartridges.
Atari 2600+ PAC-MAN Edition: The iconic console, now in PAC-MAN yellow with illuminated character icons across the front.
Backward and Forward Compatible: Play retro games just like you remember them on a system upgraded for today. Play both Atari 2600 and 7800 games on this 2600+ console. Compatible with everything in the Plus Platform, as well as with most original accessories and cartridges.
Not all gaming accessories can fit into a neat category, so for CGM’s Christmas Gift Guide 2025: The Gamer Edition, we have included a sub-category of odds, ends, and knick-knacks that gamers could use but they wouldn’t necessarily buy for themselves. From a sleek Alienware monitor to decorations, every gamer would want one of these accessories under the Christmas tree.
The Alienware AW3425DW QD-OLED Gaming Monitor delivers crystal clear visuals and allows PCs to flex their advanced component muscles with a high-quality display. If gamers are in the market for a 240Hz OLED monitor solution, Alienware provides.
For gamers who love playing with a controller but never have their console or laptop on hand, the Backbone Pro Mobile Controller turns a smartphone into a handheld console with finesse. The Backbone Pro incorporates many of the features of its predecessor for mobile gamers in a more robust and full-size design, complete with over 40 hours of battery life.
For racing enthusiasts, Turtle Beach’s VelocityOne Race KD3 Steering Wheel Controller could provide a controller solution for those who want to get literally behind the wheel. The VelocityOne Race KD3 is designed as a complete driving system straight out of the box, making it ready for any racing simulation.
For gamers in need of decorations, the Govee AI Sync Box Kit 2 can enhance the immersive aspects of gaming and media with lighting reminiscent of what’s happening on screen. For anyone looking to take their gaming setup to another immersive level, the Govee AI Sync Box Kit 2 is a solid choice that elevates gaming experiences.
For a very niche brand of gamers, the ROG XG Mobile External GPU Dock on the Christmas Gift Guide 2025: The Gamer Edition can bring a solution to mobile GPU issues, featuring impressive specs, solid IO, and a small compact design.
For gamers who need a new desk mat due to theirs becoming worn out (or discoloured), Logitech’s Studio Series Desk Mat can offer a fresh pop of colour and comfort when a replacement (or a first) is necessary.
Ultrawide immersion for elite gameplay: Our expansive 34″ QD-OLED monitor delivers seamless speed, and super smooth motion with intuitive function and connectivity.
Sweeping visuals and color: Evolve your field of view with WQHD and an 1800R curve, combined with QD-OLED’s incredible color range and clarity that easily immerses you in any world.
UNLOCK THE NEW CLYDE OUTFIT IN FORTNITE: For a limited time, starting December 3rd, 2025, new Backbone Pro purchases and current Backbone Pro owners can unlock the Clyde Outfit in Fortnite.
PRECISION CONTROLS: Designed for serious mobile gamers, the Backbone Pro phone controller features full-size ALPS analog joysticks, a precision D-pad, tactile face buttons, remappable rear buttons, and ergonomic grips. While the Backbone One delivers a streamlined experience for everyday play, the Pro offers upgraded precision and customization for advanced mobile gaming.
Latest HDMI 2.1 Interface: Govee AI Sync Box 2 adopts the latest HDMI 2.1 interface for data transmission, enabling screen and lighting synchronization, and supporting resolutions of up to 8K at 60Hz and 4K at 144Hz. Note: Automatic signal switching is not supported when multiple devices are connected.
Unique CogniGlow Technology: Govee Sync Box uses AI to automatically recognize images and text, determining trigger conditions to match specific lighting effects. HDMI 2.1 Sync Box supports VRR and ALLM, reducing screen tearing and latency, providing a seamless experience.
It is a fact that games cannot be played without an input device. So, CGMagazine has compiled some of the best controllers we have looked at in 2025 for CGM’s Christmas Gift Guide 2025: The Gamer Edition. Throughout the year, we have reviewed and tested some of the best offerings on the market, and they’re compiled here so fans can shop without having to research a recommended pair of sticks.
For gamers who have every console (including PC), the GameSir G7 Pro Controller is a serviceable option thanks to its adaptability. The GameSir G7 can sync up to any Xbox console, Android mobile phone, or PC without issue, and keybinds can be toyed with to let players tailor theirs to their playstyle.
For a premium option for PlayStation 5 gamers, the Razer Raiju V3 Pro Wireless PS5 Controller is a good choice if players require a host of features and functions, and like included attachments and accessories for their weapon of choice. The included hair-trigger functionality also gives players an extra edge where competitive gaming is concerned, in case the player is serious about their K/D.
For a more modular design, the Victrix Pro BFG Reloaded includes replaceable parts and a multitool for gamers who need to have everything their way. While the BFG includes hair triggers, it can also function as a fight stick with a removable face module that transforms the right stick into six face buttons, adapting to a hard-to-shop-for user without effort.
The Nintendo Switch 2 is finally out, and so is the add-on Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller. With a premium weight, solid design, and compatibility with the new Switch 2, this pro controller is a good option for players who like a more traditional controller design without the bells and whistles of modular or other ‘Pro’ designs.
OFFICIALLY LICENSED FOR PLAYSTATION — Tailored to the needs of esports pros for best-in-class performance and a symmetrical thumbstick layout, embrace what it takes to win with an officially licensed PlayStation wireless esports controller
4 REMOVABLE MOUSE CLICK BACK BUTTONS & 2 CLAW GRIP BUMPER — Enjoy the same ultra-responsive actuation found in Razer’s top gaming mice with 4 removable buttons built into the controller’s ergonomic, rubberized handles—topped with 2 claw grip bumpers for even more control
Tri-mode Connectivity: Wired for Xbox, 2.4G & Wired for PC, and Bluetooth for Android. The G7 Pro supports seamless connectivity across Xbox, PC, and Android. Effortlessly switch between modes using the convenient physical mode switch.
TMR Sticks: The G7 Pro features GameSir’s Mag-Res TMR sticks, combining Hall Effect durability with traditional potentiometer performance. This advanced technology delivers stable polling rates for smooth, drift-free gaming with low power consumption.
For PC gamers, it’s easy to see how important a proper keyboard is for maintaining relevance on a battlefield, and often gamers continue to use their favourite board until the keys (literally and figuratively) fall off. For 2025, CGMagazine has dealt the best mechanical keyboards (especially gaming keyboards), and we have picked some favourites for our Christmas Gift Guide 2025: The Gamer Edition. From heavy-duty to lightweight, CGM has you covered.
For the mechanical/customizable gamer, the Razer Blackwidow v4 Tenkeyless HyperSpeed Wireless Keyboard features ABS keycaps that can be switched with nearly every other mechanical keyboard on the market (including Drops). For heavier-handed users, if a switch breaks, it can also be easily replaced rather than getting a whole new board.
Another TKL, the Cherry XTRFY MX 8.3, cuts out the number pad for more desk real estate for easier mouse manipulation. Cherry also includes a keycap remover alongside its small, customizable LCD and metal chassis, so that fans can tailor their board to their preferences.
Cutting the size by another percentage, the Gravistar Mercury V75 Pro Cyberpunk Keyboard features a mini design, taking even more keys off the board in favour of more desk space. Gravistar V75 boasts HE switches for precision, giving gamers a slight advantage over those without optimized latency solutions.
Another option for the 75 percent keyboard enthusiasts is the ASUS ROG Azoth X, a premium option with customization options consistent with other mechanical keyboards, and it comes with a sci-fi-inspired profile that stands out from the rest of the pack.
RAZER HYPERSPEED WIRELESS & BLUETOOTH — Game lag-free with ultra-fast 2.4 GHz wireless and pair a compatible Razer mouse to the same dongle via multi-device support; multi-task swiftly by toggling between 3 Bluetooth devices
HOT-SWAPPABLE DESIGN — Compatible with 3 or 5-pin switches, the keyboard’s socketed PCB allows an easy swap out of its pre-loaded switches for custom ones to achieve desired key feel
PREMIUM TYPING. FASTER THAN EVER. Want it all in one keyboard? Here you go. The MX 8.3 brings you ultra-fast wireless connectivity, hot-swappable CHERRY MX2A switches with durable PBT keycaps, and ultimate control with an intuitive display and rotary knob. All in a premium build for the perfect feel with every keystroke.
ULTRA-FAST 4K WIRELESS AND 8K WIRED TECHNOLOGY. Outpace your opponents with 4000 Hz wireless and 8000 Hz wired polling rates. Reporting up to 8 times every millisecond, the MX 8.3 enables your computer to react faster to every keystroke.
Hand-Painted Limited Edition Design – Vibrant Neon Graffiti artwork meets a CNC-machined aluminum alloy frame for a truly one-of-a-kind look. Each keyboard is individually numbered, blending street art aesthetics with a durable metal build that’s made to turn heads.
Next-Gen Magnetic Switch Performance – Equipped with Hall Effect magnetic switches co-engineered with Gateron for 0.005mm precision and adjustable actuation (0.1mm–3.5mm). Tune each key’s trigger depth for lightning-fast combos or deliberate presses, and hot-swap switches without soldering to customize your feel on the fly.
Tri-mode connectvity: Seamlessly connect to three devices via Bluetooth. Experience ultra-low latency gameplay with ROG SpeedNova wireless technology in 2.4 GHz RF mode (1600+ hours battery life with OLED & RGB off), or utilize a standard wired USB connection.
Deep, Crisp Typing Sounds & Comfortable Feel: Enjoy sublime acoustics thanks to the gasket mount and five-layer dampening design. A silicone layer and four PORON layers absorb vibrations and switch ping, while the FR4 positioning plate provides a more flexible typing feel and low-pitched, crisp sound.
Turtle Beach PlayTrek Travel Case — Nintendo Switch 2
The Nintendo Switch 2 is a hot commodity this year, so you are likely to know someone who has one or is getting one this Christmas. That means you know someone who needs accessories and protection for their fancy new system. Turtle Beach has released the PlayTrek Travel Case for Nintendo Switch 2 for only $29.99, and it is officially licensed by Nintendo! With storage for up to 12 game cartridges, a padded flap for screen protection and a unique lenticular design, you can’t miss. This case comes in a Mario Bricks theme or Donkey Kong, perfect for any true Nintendo fan! You can also go with a Stellar White or Charcoal Black for $24.99 if you want something a little more subtle.
Officially Licensed Nintendo Product – Officially licensed by Nintendo and built for Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch, and Nintendo Switch – OLED Model, this case delivers reliable protection with a travel-ready design.
Unique lenticular Artwork – This case features a unique Mario Bricks lenticular design that shifts with movement, bringing each scene to life for a dynamic, collectible-quality finish.
Officially Licensed Nintendo Product – Officially licensed by Nintendo and built for Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch, and Nintendo Switch – OLED Model, this case delivers reliable protection with a travel-ready design.
Unique lenticular Artwork – This case features a unique Donkey Kong lenticular design that shifts with movement, bringing each scene to life for a dynamic, collectible-quality finish.
Officially Licensed Nintendo Product – Officially licensed by Nintendo and built for Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch, and Nintendo Switch – OLED Model, this case delivers reliable protection with a travel-ready design.
Rugged Exterior Protection – A durable EVA molded shell and TPU-coated polyester exterior defend your console from bumps and drops on the go.
Officially Licensed Nintendo Product – Officially licensed by Nintendo and built for Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch, and Nintendo Switch – OLED Model, this case delivers reliable protection with a travel-ready design.
Rugged Exterior Protection – A durable EVA molded shell and TPU-coated polyester exterior defend your console from bumps and drops on the go.
One of the best gifts to give any gamer is an upgrade to a needed device, and one of the most needed devices in PC gaming is the mouse. CGMagazine has been testing some of the best gaming mouse options on the market for 2025, and we have compiled some of our favourites below for our Christmas Gift Guide 2025: The Gamer Edition. To become the coolest family member at the table, getting one of these mice for a loved one could net you extra points.
CORSAIR is instantly recognizable as a quality peripheral manufacturer for PC, and with their latest ultralight mouse line, the CORSAIR SABRE v2 PRO Gaming Mouse is ultralight, has 8K hyper-polling, and will run under $100 for those looking for a premium upgrade.
Move over ultralight, the ASUS ROG Harpe Ace Mini Gaming Mouse brings a sturdier (but smaller) frame to the desktop. For PC enthusiasts who need everything in a bite-sized presentation, including a light-up scroll wheel (and looks good doing it), the Harpe Ace Mini has your back.
For users who need a fast and more affordable option, Razer has come to the rescue with the Razer Cobra HyperSpeed Wireless Gaming Mouse. Although this mouse is cheaper for a gaming mouse, Razer’s Focus X 26K optical sensor is on board, providing an excellent user experience for a less premium price point.
Ultralight 36g design: Built from the ground up for elite FPS players, the 36g design delivers maximum agility and control for rapid flicks, sweeping 180s, and high-precision aim.
Maximize every millisecond: 8,000Hz hyper-polling for latency-defying input delivery up to eight times faster than standard polling. Whether wired or wireless, your commands register instantly when every millisecond counts.
Built for Esports Gamers: Co-developed with professional FPS players, the compact semi-symmetrical form factor is optimized for fingertip and claw grips. Its refined shape is a smaller form of the pro-approved Harpe Ace mouse, designed to fit a wider spectrum of handshapes and grip types—making it ideal for competitive gaming on desktop or laptop setups
Pro-Level Precision for FPS: The ROG AimPoint Pro optical sensor delivers 42,000 DPI and track-on-glass technology, providing pixel-perfect accuracy and responsiveness for competitive gaming
9 CUSTOMIZABLE CONTROLS — Instantly trigger commands and macros with a swipe or click; AI Prompt Master enhances gameplay with strategic customization, while five onboard memory profiles keep settings locked in
4 ZONE CHROMA LIGHTING WITH UNDERGLOW — Customize the mouse from 16.8 million colors and countless lighting effects, and experience greater immersion as it reacts dynamically with hundreds of Chroma-integrated games
That just about wraps up CGMagazine’s Christmas Gift Guide 2025: The Gamer Edition! Fans looking for more gift-giving ideas can head to the rest of our 2025 gift guides for more lists as the Holiday Season continues.
(@Pirat_Nation) February 20, 2026
