As the holiday season approaches, the idea of gifting a digital game has become increasingly appealing for those looking to surprise friends and family. The Microsoft Store offers a seamless experience across various platforms, including Xbox consoles, Windows PCs, and even handheld devices like the Xbox ROG Ally. This convenience allows you to send a gift that can be enjoyed almost instantly.
For those interested in gifting through a console, the process is straightforward. Simply navigate to the Microsoft Store, select the desired game, and look for the gift wrap icon. A click on this icon will lead you to the “Buy as gift” options, where you can either select a friend from your list or enter an email address. It’s important to note that the recipient must be in the same country as you to ensure a smooth transaction.
Gifting Through Console
- After selecting the recipient, choose your payment option and complete the purchase.
- Your friend will receive a notification both on their Xbox console and via email, prompting them to click on “Redeem code” to access their new game.
- Additionally, you can also gift add-ons and subscriptions, such as Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.
For those using the Xbox app on a PC or an Xbox ROG Ally handheld, the gifting process mirrors that of the console. Simply search for the game, click the “…” button, and select “Buy as Gift” from the dropdown menu. You can then choose to send it to an Xbox friend or an email address.
Gifting Through the Xbox App on PC (Including ROG Xbox Ally)
Whether you are on a desktop or a handheld device, the steps remain consistent, ensuring a user-friendly experience.
Gifting Through Web Browser
If you prefer to use a web browser, the process is similarly uncomplicated. Visit the Microsoft Store Online, locate the game or subscription you wish to gift, and select “Buy as a gift” from the dropdown menu next to the buy button. After logging into your Microsoft Account and choosing your payment method, your gift is ready to be sent.
Gifting Through the Microsoft Store on Windows
On the Microsoft Store for Windows, the gifting process is just as simple. Again, you will only have the email option available. Find the game or add-on you wish to gift, click “Buy as a Gift,” and follow the prompts to complete your purchase.
For further information on gifting digital games, you can visit the dedicated support page, which provides comprehensive details to assist you in making the perfect gift choice this holiday season.
This article has been updated for 2025. The original version of the article was written by Daniel Martins.
