Gift Ideas for a 12-Year-Old PC Gamer: Building a Computer and Learning to Code

As a parent, finding the right gifts for your child can be a daunting task, especially if they are passionate about computers and gaming. Whether it's your son or daughter who is turning 12 and showing a keen interest in these areas, this article aims to provide some thoughtful and practical suggestions. From top PC games to building a computer yourself, this guide covers everything a young enthusiast might need to explore the world of gaming and coding.

Top PC Games for Young Gamers

One of the best gifts you can give a young PC gamer is a game that can both entertain and teach. Bestselling titles include:

Dark Souls 3: Although there's a high chance he already has it, Dark Souls 3 is a great choice if you want to stretch the boundaries of the gift-giving envelope. The game is a challenging yet rewarding experience that can help cultivate perseverance and strategic thinking. Minecraft: As a free-build sandbox game, Minecraft is the best building game in the world. It's versatile and can be enjoyed by children and adults alike. Beyond building, Minecraft also offers modding and creation modes, which can spark an interest in coding and game design. Scratch and Alice: These are fantastic coding games that can introduce your child to the basics of programming. Scratch is user-friendly and suitable for beginners, while Alice teaches more advanced concepts through a fun, narrative-driven approach.

Learning to Code: A Lifelong Skill

Introducing your child to the basics of coding can be one of the most valuable gifts you can give them. It can not only help them become a better gamer but also provide them with a vital skillset that can open doors in the future. Here are some great options:

Hello World by Carter and Warren Sande: This book is an excellent introduction to Python programming. By the end of the book, your child will have created their own 2D games, which can be very rewarding and motivating. Research First: Visit your local bookstore or Amazon to research books on game design. Over the years, you might have come across books with great examples and instructions for writing your first game engine. If your child has already shown some programming skills, consider books that can help them with more advanced programming concepts. Become a Linux Enthusiast: Building a computer with your child is a wonderful way to engage them, especially in the world of Linux. Linux offers a rich environment for learning and tinkering, and it can also help your child save money in the long run. Consider the following:

Building the Computer:

Core i5 CPU 8GB RAM WD Black Edition hard drive (3-5yr warranty) Regular case Monitor Keyboard and mouse Mix optional: Graphics card for an extra $100 Estimated cost: $500 (including monitor) or $600 for a Windows PC or $600 for a Mac

Advantages of Linux:

Open-source and free software No need for optical drives Less likely to age as quickly as a Windows PC Steam and SteamOS support for gaming User-friendly OS with extensive documentation and community support

Resources and Advice:

If you're not confident in building a computer yourself, seek advice from a local, independent computer store. They can provide personalized advice and support, which is invaluable when you're building something complex. Purchase from local stores rather than chain stores to ensure you get real technical advice and service. Start with a simple 8086 computer (like the one the author started with) and work your way up. It's a great way to introduce your child to the fundamentals of computer hardware and software.

Conclusion:

Building a computer with your child and introducing them to the world of Linux not only helps their development but also fosters a love for technology and problem-solving. These gifts can provide a solid foundation for a lifelong journey in technology, computers, and game design. As the author reflects, many young programmers have turned their early experiences into successful careers, and with the right guidance, your child could be the next great programmer or entrepreneur.