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Video games are a fun activity for family and friends to play together, physically or virtually. Some video games are compatible with a wide variety of video game systems, while others will only work with one specific system. The best video games for kids are age-appropriate and fun without sacrificing your family’s budget (or kiddo’s allowance). Check reviews and the required ESRB (Entertainment Software Ratings Board) ratings to make informed choices about what games are right for your family. Think of these ratings like movie ratings; they tell parents and caregivers the best age for the game and what to expect in the content, such as language, violence, and more. To select the best video games for kids, we researched dozens of games on the market with ratings ranging from E to E10+. Moreover, we reviewed guidance on media use in kids from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Lastly, we considered age recommendations, material, ease of use, ratings, system type, value, and editor recommendations when reviewing products. According to the AAP, it’s important to achieve a “balance between digital consumption and healthier activities,” and there are some key factors to look out for that may indicate problems with video gaming, including: Each video game includes a rating system that ranges from EC (Early Childhood), which means it’s suitable for ages 3 and up all the way up to Adults Only. Check the ratings prior to purchasing any games to ensure your child is playing an age-appropriate video game. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Best for Preschoolers: LeapFrog LeapLand Adventures Learning Video Game at Amazon ($25) Best for Elementary Aged: Best for Preteens: Best for Online Play: Best Sports: Best Multiplayer: Best Interactive: Best for the Family: In This Article Digital Consumption: What to Know Our Picks How We Selected Understanding Age Ratings What to Look For FAQ Why Trust Verywell Family Pros Fun for a group Beginner mode makes it easier for kids Four players can play with one Switch Cons Limited system compatibility The Nintendo Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is our top pick because everyone in the family can enjoy this classic character and his friends. Parents will appreciate the joy of playing with all their Mario Kart fan-favorite characters, while kids will love the excitement of the game. With the ability to support up to four players split-screen on the TV or Switch, it’s a fun option for a group. The “E” rating ensures there’s nothing violent or inappropriate for younger players. Fans of the Switch will love this game; the only drawback is it can’t be played on other systems. Pros HDMI stick and USB power cable (no system type) Wireless controller Explore shapes, letters, numbers, and more Cons Controller is a learning curve for little kids Preschoolers will love going on a quest with the LeapFrog LeapLand Adventures Learning Video Game. Kids search for keys to unlock Clever Castle as they explore shapes, colors, numbers, letters, and more. The brand sent one of our writers a sample of the game, and she loves the game's age-appropriateness for her preschooler. Simply insert the HDMI game stick and USB power cable into your TV to start playing immediately with the wireless controller. Pros Easy to play Laid back game play Cons Single player Only available on Nintendo Switch Younger fans will enjoy this addition to the Pokémon gaming family. A single-player game, players will meet a new teacher, Professor Mirror, to help lead the way. As you journey through new locales like jungles and beaches, players search for Pokémon and are challenged to snap photos of what they find. The unique game can only be played on the Nintendo Switch. Fun and laid back, it’s especially good for those already familiar with Pokémon. Pros Two modes of play Build or battle Available on several system types Cons Sometimes lags Building, battles, befriending, and blocks—Minecraft is a game that lets kids build their own world while battling creatures, mobs, and other players (if they want to). While rated E10+, the game isn’t violent (no blood), and players can actually report other players for not following community guidelines. Play in two modes—creative or survival—on various system types, including Xbox, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Windows, and more. Pros Can play on wifi on nearly any device Up to 15 players Quick game play Cons Ability to interact with players Among Us is a popular online game, meaning it can be played from nearly any device with Wi-Fi, including a phone or tablet. Taking place on a space station, in order to win the round, each player must complete tasks, with the twist that there’s an imposter on the ship that can sabotage or kill players. A game of deduction, teamwork, and betrayal, it’s easy to play with a group and simple to generate a private code, so you only play with those you know. Each round is pretty quick, and while there is the opportunity to play with strangers, there is very limited play-to-player interaction. Pros 3D kingdoms One or two players Unlock new figures Cons Main story is short You can’t go wrong with Mario, especially when it involves 3D kingdoms full of surprises and secrets. Super Mario Odyssey lets kids visit new places, such as the skyscraper city New Donk City, with Mario and his friend Cappy as they try to save Princess Peach. Pros Amazing visuals Single or multiplayer modes Cons Limited differences from previous versions Soccer only game Soccer fans will love this popular sports game that gets better and better each year. Amazing visuals make the games look like a real soccer match, and lots of playing options make it easy to play alone or with others. The game is available on almost all systems, so all soccer fans can get in on the action. Pros Up to four players Rated E Compatible on major system types Cons Slightly challenging Up to 4 players can panic together in this chaotic cooking game. Chefs prepare meals, serve, and clean up dishes within a short time limit. Players will “knead” to work together and communicate with each other; once you get used to the kitchen, you may find new challenges to shake it up. Pros Up to six players Family friendly Smartphone can double as controller Cons Yearly version isn’t much different Subscription required for access to additional songs Get ready to move and groove with the latest version of the popular Just Dance game. Perfect for a crowd, up to six players will be challenged to keep the beat and move to the music with this fun, interactive game. It’s easy to play with a large group, simply use your smartphone as the controller. Master the moves, and you’ll look like TikTok stars! Pros Both single or multiplayer 18 events Customizable avatar Cons Everyone 10+ rating Some games require taking turns instead of dual playing Fun for the whole family, celebrate the spirit of the Olympics as players choose from 18 different competitive events. A versatile game, it can be played alone, with friends, or online with players (or friends and family) around the world. Families will also enjoy dressing their Olympian avatar and can choose from over 50 costumes. To select the best video games for kids, we reviewed guidance from the AAP on media use in kids, such as how much screen time kids can have, and rating information from the ESRB. We also researched dozens of top-rated video games for kids on the market, analyzing their material, age recommendations, system type, ratings, and value. Our selection includes only video games for kids that are age-appropriate and fun and available at a variety of price points. One of the most important factors to consider when buying video games for your child is the age-appropriateness of the game. Video games are rated by the ESRB, which gives parents and caregivers an idea of a game’s appropriate age level usage. The ESRB has six main categories when it comes to ratings. What are some signs that my child is playing video games too often? When it comes to playing video games, the AAP recommends no more than two hours per day for older children. For some children, even this may be too much screen time, and there are warning signs to look out for if your child has been playing too often. Sleep deprivation and attention problems after playing are signs your child may need to put the controller down for a much-needed break. Also be on the lookout for a lack of time management skills and what video game violence is conveying. Finding a balance with video games will ensure your child is staying healthy not only physically, but mentally, too. Can video games be beneficial for my child’s health? While video games have a bad reputation when it comes to children playing them, there are some benefits to the screen time. However, the benefits will depend on the type of video games your child is playing. Depending on the game, some will help your child enhance their problem-solving skills or hand-eye coordination. If your child likes Virtual Reality games, these help them with physical activity. But, it’s important to remember, video games should not replace playing outside or engaging in sports and moderation is key. Maya Polton is a former marketing manager and current freelance writer who covers food, home, and parenting. She’s also the mom of a 10-year-old son, 7-year-old son, and 3-year-old daughter. While she does not consider herself a gamer (does Tetris count?), her two sons are big video game fans and sometimes consider the Nintendo Switch an appendage to their body. Additional reporting by: Katrina Cossey is a commerce writer, enthusiastic shopper, and devoted mom. She spent several years in broadcast journalism but found her true passion in writing about the best products for families, pregnant people, and kids of all ages. She’s researched thousands of baby products, toys, gifts, and more and personally tested many of them. In her spare time, you’ll likely find her in the beautiful outdoors of Oklahoma with her husband and 3-year-old son.Katrina's preschooler loves LeapFrog LeapLand Adventures, which teaches him letters, numbers, shapes, and more. Digital Consumption: What to Know
Best Overall
Nintendo Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
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Best for Preschoolers
LeapFrog LeapLand Adventures Learning Video Game
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Best for Elementary Aged
Nintendo Switch Pokémon Snap
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Best Multiplayer
Team 17 Overcooked! 2 (Xbox One)
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How We Selected Video Games for Kids
How to Know If Games Are Age-Appropriate
What to Look for When Buying Video Games for Kids
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Trust Verywell Family