The holidays are here, and you can almost hear the jingle of joy as kids’ wish lists fly to the North Pole. If you’ve got a gamer in your life, you already know that video games are topping the charts for “must-have” gifts under the tree. But with so many blockbuster releases this year, which ones are kids really hoping to unwrap?

Credit: Canva
Credit: Canva
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We’ve done the research—tracking the most popular video games through Amazon’s “Most Wished For” lists and Google Trends, thanks to a study from BetMGM—and it turns out that Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin are buzzing with excitement over some truly epic titles. Whether you’re swinging through the streets of New York City, saving the galaxy with your ragtag crew, or calling the plays in the biggest football showdown, these are the games every kid (and kid-at-heart) is dreaming about this Christmas. So, let’s fire up the consoles and break it down!

Credit: Canva
Credit: Canva
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Top Video Games Kids Want This Christmas

While each state has its own favorite game, some titles have clearly captured hearts across the country. These are the standout stars of kids’ Christmas lists this year:

Marvel’s Spider-Man 2

The web-slinging sequel to one of the most beloved superhero games ever, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 is pure action-packed fun. With two Spider-Men (Peter Parker and Miles Morales), jaw-dropping visuals, and a story that’ll keep you glued to the screen, it’s no wonder this game is topping charts nationwide.

Sonic Frontiers

Sonic fans, rejoice! The blue blur is back and faster than ever in Sonic Frontiers. This game blends classic speed with a huge open-world experience, letting players zoom, spin, and collect rings in style. It’s a nostalgic trip for parents and a thrilling ride for kids.

DRAGON BALL: Sparking! ZERO

Anime fans know the power of the Dragon Balls, and this game doesn’t disappoint. Featuring earth-shaking battles, epic transformations, and all your favorite characters, it’s the ultimate pick for kids who dream of going Super Saiyan (like I did).

Madden NFL 25

Football never goes out of style, and Madden NFL 25 is proof. With its lifelike gameplay and team-building features, it’s a touchdown for any sports-loving kid who’s ready to call the plays.

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State-by-State: Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin’s Favorite Games

So, what’s the ultimate game that kids in Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin want to see wrapped up this year? Let’s dive into the rankings:

Iowa: Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy

Iowa kids are ready to save the universe—and look good doing it. Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy brings everyone’s favorite space-faring misfits together for an adventure full of humor, heart, and awesome mixtape moments. It’s got action, storytelling, and just enough chaos to keep everyone on their toes. Iowa gamers clearly have excellent taste.

Credit: Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy / PlayStation YouTube Channel
Credit: Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy / PlayStation YouTube Channel
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Illinois: Marvel’s Spider-Man 2

Credit: Marvel's Spider-Man 2 / PlayStation YouTube Channel
Credit: Marvel's Spider-Man 2 / PlayStation YouTube Channel
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It’s no surprise that Illinois kids have their sights set on Marvel’s Spider-Man 2. This title is the superhero game of the year, delivering incredible action, a powerful story, and double the Spider-Man fun. From swinging through New York’s skyline to battling legendary villains, it’s the ultimate gaming gift for kids who want to be heroes. Plus, VENOM!

Credit: Marvel's Spider-Man 2 / PlayStation YouTube Channel
Credit: Marvel's Spider-Man 2 / PlayStation YouTube Channel
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Wisconsin: Madden NFL 25

Credit: EA Sports / Madden 25 / IGN YouTube Channel
Credit: EA Sports / Madden 25 / IGN YouTube Channel
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In Wisconsin, football reigns supreme—both on the field and on the screen. Kids here are huddling up for Madden NFL 25, a game that lets them live out their gridiron dreams. Whether they’re playing as their favorite NFL team or building their own dynasty, Madden brings the excitement of Sunday football straight to the living room. Go Pack Go!

What This Year’s Gaming Trends Tell Us

This year’s holiday wish lists show that kids are all about epic adventures, fast-paced action, and a little friendly competition. Whether they’re swinging between skyscrapers, blasting off into space, or scoring touchdowns, these games offer the kind of immersive experiences that keep players coming back for “just one more level.”

Credit: BetMGM
Credit: BetMGM
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Parents, take note: video games like Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, Sonic Frontiers, and Madden NFL 25 aren’t just games—they’re gateways to incredible stories, teamwork, and creativity. Plus, with so many great titles to choose from, you can’t go wrong. And hey, take sometime to play with the kiddos too. It's a great way to bond and show them you're interested in what they like too.

Credit: BetMGM
Credit: BetMGM
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If you’re looking for the perfect gift to light up your gamer’s holiday, you now know the MVPs for Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin. So, load up your Amazon cart, grab some wrapping paper, and get ready for some seriously epic holiday cheer. And hey—don’t be surprised if you find yourself sneaking a turn on the controller after the kids go to bed. These games are just that good. Happy gaming, and happy holidays!

LOOK: Holiday gift crazes and fads of the past century

Stacker compiled a list of toy crazes from the past 100 years. 

Gallery Credit: Jennnifer Billock

LOOK: What Christmas was like the year you were born

To see how Christmas has changed over the last century, Stacker explored how popular traditions, like food and decorations, emerged and evolved from 1920 to 2021 in the U.S. and around the world. 

Gallery Credit: Stacker

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