In 2021, teens aged 13 to 18 in the United States spent an average of 55 minutes on video consoles daily. Many parents find it alarming, especially when many games involve graphic violence. However, not all video games are bad for children and teens. In fact, many family-friendly video games are safe for kids and can also be fun for adults!

How do you know a video game is appropriate for your family? And which games should you consider? Let’s help you out!

Key takeaways:

  • Family-friendly video games are not only safe for kids but can also be enjoyed by adults. When choosing a family-friendly video game, consider the age of your children, the game’s content, and whether it is cooperative or competitive.
  • It’s recommended to trust a family gaming guide when choosing video games for your family. Take note of the Age Rating, Content Descriptors, and Interactive Elements.
  • The best video games for family have elements that determine how players will enjoy them and for how long.

Table of Contents:

  • What Makes a Video Game Family-Friendly?
  • What Do Family Video Games Need?
  • Best Video Games for Family
  • CCCI – Quality Video Games Services

What Makes a Video Game Family-Friendly?

As parents, you are the best judge of what is appropriate for your children. You just want them to have fun and be safe while playing video games. You can consider some factors when determining if a video game is family-friendly. We’ll start our family gaming guide with three key things:

Age Rating

The Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) is responsible for rating video games in North America. Games are rated E for Everyone, E10+ for ten and up, T for Teens, M for Mature, and AO for Adults Only. It’s important to check a game’s rating before purchasing it for your family.

Content Descriptors

Games also have content descriptors that indicate what kind of content is in the game. These are found on the back of the game box and can help you make a more informed decision about whether or not a game is appropriate for your family. Some standard content descriptors include:

  • Alcohol Reference
  • Blood
  • Drug Reference
  • Language
  • Sexual Content
  • Violence

Pro tip: The ESRB also has an app called the ESRB Mobile App that you can use to look up ratings and content descriptors for games on the go!

Interactive Elements

Another thing to consider when choosing family-friendly video games is the interactive elements. These are features that allow the player to interact with other players online. Some games have chat features that allow players to communicate with each other. Others have voice chat, which the player or parental controls can turn off.

What Do Family Video Games Need?

And just like any other video game , family-friendly games need certain elements to make them fun and entertaining. How do you find the balance between what the kids and the adults want and need?

Hook

The hook is what will draw the player in and keep them playing. It can be something as simple as a character they can relate to or an exciting story!

Choice

Kids and adults want to feel like they have control over their game experience. When considering family-friendly games, look for ones that give the player choices. It could be what clothes their character wears or what side missions they want to complete.

Challenge

Players want to feel like they’re accomplishing something as they play. They need to be able to overcome obstacles and master new skills. Find games that offer a good challenge without being too difficult.

Pro tip: You can make gaming nights with your family even more fun with prizes and rewards! Also, encourage your kids to teach each other tips and tricks.

Design

The game should be designed to be easy to understand and navigate. The controls should be intuitive, and the user interface should be straightforward. The game should also be visually appealing, engaging, and age-appropriate!

Storyline

A good story can make or break a game. It needs to be interesting, engaging, and appropriate for the player.

Best Video Games for Family

We’ve come to the highlight! You already know what to look for in family-friendly games, and now it’s time to dive into our top picks. Which games should you get for your family gaming night?

1. Nintendo Labo

For curious, patient, and crafty kids, Nintendo Labo is a perfect video game experience. Using the materials provided, players can construct their own cardboard toys, which are then used to interact with the Switch console and various minigames. It’s a great way to encourage creativity and problem-solving, and it can be enjoyed by kids (and adults) of all ages.

2. Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga

Anything Lego is usually a safe bet for family-friendly games. The Skywalker Saga is one of the Lego Star Wars games, allowing players to relive all nine movies in the Skywalker saga. With tons of characters to play as co-op play and a drop-in/drop-out feature, it’s a game that the whole family can enjoy.

3. Minecraft

You can’t have a list of family-friendly games without mentioning Minecraft. This popular game has been around for years and remains one of the most played today. It’s perfect for families because people of all ages can play it, and there is no violence. Players can explore, build, and create whatever they want in their own world.

4. Super Mario Odyssey

Super Mario Odyssey is a newer addition to the Mario franchise, and it’s one of the best family-friendly games out there. It’s perfect for younger players because it’s not too challenging but enjoyable for adults. The game is set in an open sandbox world, and players can explore and collect items to their heart’s content.

Note: Super Mario Odyssey won Best Family Game at The 2017 Game Awards!

5. Mario Kart 8

Mario Kart is a classic video game franchise, and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is one of the series’ installments. It’s an excellent game for families because anyone with any level and skills can play together. You can also choose multiple modes, so you can play how you want. Mario Kart just never gets old!

6. Snipperclips

Underrated but addictive, Snipperclips should be on your list of family-friendly games. It’s best played with two or more players, requiring teamwork and communication. The goal is to cut paper characters into the right shape so that they can solve puzzles together.

7. Plants vs. Zombies: Battle for Neighborville

If you’re looking for a family-friendly video game with a little bit of competition, Plants vs. Zombies: Battle for Neighborville is the one. It’s a third-person shooter game where players can choose to be on the side of plants or zombies. Team up with family and friends and see who comes out victorious!

8. Roblox

Roblox is a massively multiplayer online game with millions of players. It’s perfect for families because there are tons of different games to choose from, and there’s something for everyone. Players can also create their own games, so the possibilities are endless.

9. Splatoon 2

It’s a little bit of paintball, a little bit of Mario, and a lot of fun. Splatoon 2 is a third-person shooter game where players use paint guns to battle it out. The family-friendly mode is perfect for those who want a more toned-down gaming experience.

10. Overcooked

Overcooked is a cooking simulation game that up to four players can play. It’s perfect for families because it’s a fast-paced and chaotic game that will get everyone laughing. Work together to cook recipes before the timer runs out, but be careful not to let the kitchen catch fire!

You can also check “Top 15 webtoon and manga based on video games