This year, as with most years, gaming consoles are the year’s hottest gaming gifts. To make the experience extra special, some prep work is involved before gifting a console, games, or peripherals. Whether that’s the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, or the Switch OLED – any gamer on your list will be thrilled to receive one of these game consoles this year. Remember that server issues or slow internet could take the holiday cheer out of your gift. Setting up the console beforehand will reduce the time getting that new console up and running. We’ll show you what you need to know and what preparation you can take before gifting a console to ensure the gamer on your list is ready to play on unwrapping day. Jump AheadDo these things before gifting a consolePick the right console for the right personUpdate the consoleHow to set up a new console How to update a new console Wrapping up a new consoleWhat to do with games for a new console How to install physical games on a console Nintendo SwitchPlayStationXboxThrow in an extra controller (or two)That’s a wrap on gifting a console Do these things before gifting a console Modern consoles are closer to PCs than ever before. You can’t just take them out of the box and start playing immediately. First, you’ll need to update them to the latest operating system. But it doesn’t stop there. There are system and controller firmware updates. And if any games come with the console…Gifting a console? What you should know before wrapping it up