By Jon Scarr
Bandai Namco quietly had one of its biggest release years in recent memory. If you are trying to figure out what to grab for friends, family or even yourself, this lineup covers RPGs, co-op survival, horror adventures, anime brawlers and classic quirk. It is a surprisingly strong group of games that fits well with holiday shopping.
Many of these titles also received meaningful updates throughout the year, which helps them feel like strong choices for holiday gifting. Whether you are shopping for someone who enjoys dark fantasy, quirky nostalgia, anime action or story-driven adventures, Bandai Namco’s lineup offers options for different tastes. Here are six releases that make thoughtful gift ideas for gamers this holiday season.
Elden Ring Nightreign
Best for fans of challenging co-op action
FromSoftware released something different with Elden Ring Nightreign. It is a survival-focused twist on the famous Elden Ring universe where you pick from eight Nightfarers and push through shifting maps and changing threats. Runs play out across a three-day cycle and include boss fights that evolve as you go. Post launch support added new modes, harder boss variants and weapon effects that can help or hurt depending on luck. With new content arriving in The Forsaken Hollows DLC, this one suits anyone who enjoys tough combat, co-op play and a constant sense of unpredictability. A solid gift for someone who likes mechanical challenge and discovery.
Once Upon A Katamari
Best for quirky gamers and families
Katamari Damacy returns with a new entry that leans into time travel and the familiar roll-everything energy of the series. The Prince and his cousins head across eras and collect objects from Jurassic times, historic Japan and other periods while the classic soundtrack vibe kicks in. It is colourful, odd and upbeat which makes it ideal for younger gamers or anyone who values playful experiences. The Switch version especially works well for couch sessions. If you want something light and charming for the holidays, this Katamari feels like the safest pick on this list.
Digimon Story Time Stranger
Best for RPG fans who want story first
Bandai Namco positioned Digimon Story Time Stranger as an approachable entry point for newcomers. You explore both worlds, build bonds with Digimon and even jump across time to protect both realities. With its focus on connection and progression, it suits RPG fans who prefer narrative pacing over difficulty spikes. If you have someone on your list who loves monsters but may not want something as involved as Pokémon or Shin Megami Tensei, this could be a nice starting point. It is also a gift that can stretch across the holidays because of its longer play loop.
Little Nightmares III
Best for horror adventure fans who want co-op
Little Nightmares III explores fear through Low and Alone, two characters trying to escape tangled places in the Nowhere. The atmosphere hits a bit harder this time because of the new online co-op. Friends can move through the scares on the same platform or you can play solo with AI support. Its puzzle-meets-chill tone fits anyone who enjoys something creepy but not outright graphic. If you know someone who likes suspenseful adventures or wants a game to play with someone over the break, this is a strong option across current consoles.
Towa and the Guardians of the Sacred Tree
Best for roguelite newcomers
Bandai Namco’s first step into roguelites sends you to Shinju Village where companions fight alongside priestess Towa. The painterly presentation gives it a softer feel while the soundtrack comes from well-known composer Hitoshi Sakamoto. The gameplay revolves around picking companions and pushing back threats which fits newcomers to the genre or anyone who enjoys lighter loop-based play. If you want a thoughtful pick for someone who appreciates art direction or a gentle introduction to roguelites, this is the one to wrap.
Bleach Rebirth of Souls
Best for anime and fighter fans
Bleach Rebirth of Souls brings fast anime battles with more than thirty playable characters and combat that mirrors the source material. Because it follows the main story arc, it works well for Bleach fans who want to relive moments through interactive fights. The action system focuses on keeping each fighter authentic which should appeal to those who enjoy character-driven brawlers. If someone on your list watches anime or enjoys arena fighting games, this feels like a direct hit for gifting.
Which Bandai Namco Game Makes the Best Gift?
The lineup is varied enough that it really depends on who you are shopping for. Elden Ring Nightreign suits challenge-hungry friends who love co-op survival. Katamari is the easiest crowd pleaser across ages. Digimon Story Time Stranger fits those who enjoy story progression.
Little Nightmares III is ideal for co-op horror fans. Towa serves anyone who likes art-forward design or gentler roguelites. Bleach Rebirth of Souls drops right into the anime circle with style. Whether you wrap something spooky or something cheerful, Bandai Namco’s 2025 slate gives you solid choices for different personalities this holiday.
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