The shift to the new normal can be a lot for kids. With modules and other schoolwork to do, they may feel stressed at times. During the pre-COVID days, they can play with their classmates, cousins, or friends to unwind. But now that this is not recommended, video games are one of their best options to de-stress.
We understand that as parents or caregivers, you want what's best for your children. Guiding them in choosing the best video game can be tough, especially if you’re not a techie. Fret not! This article is meant to help you through a buying guide reviewed by Early Childhood Educator Och Gonzales and our curated top 10 list below. We’ve also included tips on how you can help your kids develop healthy video gaming habits, so stay tuned!
Quick List - Top Video Games for Kids
Nintendo
Allows Users to Decorate Their Home and Live in Their Own Island
Nintendo
An Exhilarating Racing Game That Lets Players Customize Their Kart and Enjoy Fun Tracks
Och Gonzalez has been an early childhood educator in Manila for over 20 years. As a preschool teacher and grade school academic coach, she has worked with young children and their families to achieve learning goals and address developmental concerns. She has created reading programs that aim to develop literacy skills and a love for reading in young children. She holds an MA in Education from the Ateneo de Manila University and is also the author of the children’s book, “Every Sunday.”
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
Here are some key points to consider:
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
The first thing that you have to think about is the different genres of video games. Talk to your kids first and ask them what they prefer. From there, check out available games in their chosen genre. We've discussed the most popular genres below.
Action and adventure is the most encompassing genre, which is why they make up most of the popular video games. Any game with physical challenges a player must overcome in a set time or situation is under this. Some examples of which are evading enemy attacks, saving another character, and collecting items to win the round.
Your kids might be familiar with action games such as Flinthook, Cave Story+, Ben10 Omniverse, and Sonic Lost World. There are also action games like Disney Princess: Enchanted Journey for those who like princesses. These games have different challenges and levels that the player must face to win.
Action video games train kids on a wide variety of skills. Since they are fast-paced, children need to stay focused and be able to process information quickly in order to make decisions. They also learn how to multi-task because this type of game often involves rapid switches between different tasks. However, parents must be very careful in picking out an action game because many of them include violence.
Simulation games allow the player to see things happen and virtually experience them. This is a good tool for your children to encounter events that might otherwise be unavailable in an actual setting.
There are role-playing games that help them develop their creativity, such as The Sims and Cooking Mama, while there are others that let them build their own virtual world, like Minecraft. They all create an immersive, realistic game with different scenarios that can build your little ones' imagination.
Simulation games are great for nurturing creativity and problem-solving. This is also appealing for kids who learn best by doing, since they are given the opportunity to apply the information they've learned in simulation settings, leading to better retention of information.
This genre allows users to play against other players in a digital sports setting. Sports video games are beneficial now that children are not advised to go out due to the pandemic. Through this, they can still feel like they are playing their favorite sport, whether it be basketball, soccer, or baseball.
Sports video games that are popular among kids are NBA 2K22 and FIFA 22. These games can foster teamwork and also improve your little ones' coordination skills and strategic thinking skills.
Aside from being fun, sports games actually raise confidence and self-esteem levels in children and teenagers. Studies have also shown that adolescents who play sports video games tend to be more involved in real-life sports over time.
Puzzle games are designed to challenge players to think in order to win. These may vary from wordplays, adventures, or logic-based games. Players need to employ reasoning, quick matching skills, and abstract reasoning to win the game.
Perhaps the most famous puzzle game is Tetris. Other games that are starting to gain popularity are Guilty Party, The Witness, Overcooked, and Super Mario 3D World. Puzzle games are a fun way to enhance your children's cognitive skills even after school.
Because puzzle games involve a great deal of thinking, they can strengthen the learning process. In fact, scientists have found that the human brain increases neuroplasticity in individuals who play this type of game.
This means that their brains become more open to learning new skills and forming new memories. Think of it as an exercise for the brain just like going to the gym is for the body.
If you're looking for a fun way to encourage your children to stay active, you might want to pick up a dance game for them. One of the most popular dance games is Just Dance, which has choreographed steps that players need to follow to earn points. Also, the game is updated with new songs regularly, so you and your kids can dance to your favorite tunes!
It's also important to identify which platforms are compatible with the video game. You do not want to waste your money purchasing a game that is incompatible with your kids' gadgets. There are games that are made for Xbox, PlayStation, and other gaming consoles, so be sure to check the description before adding them to your virtual cart.
However, some video games are only exclusive to a certain gaming platform. For example, the majority of Nintendo games are only available for their Nintendo consoles like Switch and Switch Lite. Animal Crossing, Mario Kart, and Pokémon are just a few of their most popular video games.
In addition, you must check the connectivity requirements of the video game, as some require an internet connection to play. If you plan to keep your child entertained on a long trip, you might want to opt for games that can be played offline. But if you have your own data or pocket Wi-Fi, then online games should not be out of the question.
Given the current situation, children have limited physical interaction with their peers. If your kids thrive in socialization, you may want to go for multi-player video games. This allows them to play with their cousins, friends, and classmates online.
Multi-player games also promote cooperation among the players. They can turn to each other for assistance as they try to achieve the goal of the game. Of course, these are not limited to their friends. Playing virtual games with your children is also a great way to bond with your kids.
Multi-player games have been shown to increase social competence in children. Aside from helping them understand the concept of teamwork and cooperation, video games may also give them a stronger sense of social identity, which is linked to higher self-esteem and lower levels of loneliness.
There are times when you can’t monitor your kids and the video games they play—but this is where Parental Controls come in. Luckily, most major gaming platforms offer this. It allows the parent or caregiver to restrict what their children can play and the duration of their online connectivity.
Xbox One, PlayStation4, and Nintendo Switch all have a feature that allows control over what games the child can play, which purchases they can make, and so on. If you do not deem this sufficient, you can also check the International Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) site for a guide on how to use parental controls.
Many parents find it hard to cope with the fast-paced changes in technology, but it's essential to do this if you want to train your child to be digitally savvy. Just like how you teach them about safety in the real world like crossing the street or not talking to strangers, for example, you should also be proactive when it comes to their use of digital media. Like it or not, this is now just as much a part of their world as their real environment is.
The black and white rectangle that you see in physical copies of the video game is the ESRB rating. But if you're purchasing the game online, the rating is usually indicated on the product page.
You may also want to check the ratings of other parents or guardians on the video game. These are usually readily available on sites like Common Sense Media. Of course, you can also talk to your fellow parents or guardians and ask what video games they approve of for their children.
As with any kind of digital content, it's best for parents to try a game out themselves first aside from checking the ratings to see if it's appropriate for their kids, not just content-wise but also in terms of their skill level. It also helps to choose a game that can target any learning needs you want to focus on.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Nintendo Animal Crossing: New Horizons|MDE | ![]() | Allows Users to Decorate Their Home and Live in Their Own Island | |
2 | Nintendo Mario Kart 8 Deluxe | ![]() | An Exhilarating Racing Game That Lets Players Customize Their Kart and Enjoy Fun Tracks | |
3 | Mojang Studios Minecraft Starter Collection | ![]() | Build Castles and Mines and Defend Them From Mobs | |
4 | Ubisoft Just Dance 2022 | ![]() | Stay Active by Dancing Along to Kid-Friendly and Trending Songs | |
5 | 2K, Inc. NBA 2K22: Standard Edition|R3 | ![]() | Immersive Game Experience for Aspiring Ballers | |
6 | 1st Playable Productions Cooking Mama: Cookstar|R1/ALL | ![]() | Offers More Than 80 Recipes for Your Little Chef | |
7 | Nintendo Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker|US (ENG/SP) | ![]() | Find Hidden Treasures While Evading the Enemy | |
8 | SEGA Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 | ![]() | For the Sporty Child Who Likes Video Games | |
9 | Warner Home Video Games Lego Marvel Super Heroes 2|R3 | ![]() | Take Control of Iron Man, Captain America and Other Marvel Super Heroes! | |
10 | Outright Games Paw Patrol: Mighty Pups Save Adventure Bay|R2 | ![]() | Join the Mighty Pups on a Special Mission to Clean Up Adventure Bay |
Most people, young and old alike, love this game. What makes it appealing is its straight-to-the-point objective—upgrade your house and pay your debts by doing tasks on the island. The player can catch fish and bugs to earn bells, make friends with their fellow villagers, and dig fossils—it's totally up to them!
This game can improve your child's strategic thinking skills since they need to accomplish tasks in order to reach the end goal. It can also boost their creativity because they can customize the landscape, their character, and their home according to their preference.
If your child wants to play with other people, they can activate the multiplayer mode and visit their friends' islands. On the other hand, they can also invite their besties to their own island. If your little one is looking for a fun and relaxing game that can help them unwind after school, Animal Crossing: New Horizon is perfect for them!
Your child may be familiar with or have played Mario Kart before. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is an upgraded version of that! In this game, they can race as their favorite character and compete with their friends in the new and improved battle mode. They can even customize the kart and the race tracks!
The game is very kid-friendly since the controls are easy to learn. Thus, it can enhance your little one's hand-eye coordination skills. It also comes with a Smart Steering feature that lets young players stay on track. On the other hand, the race tracks are challenging enough not to bore the users easily.
Of course, you can only expect top-notch graphics from Nintendo. From the HD effects to the new characters and courses, your little one will surely enjoy playing this game with their friends, cousins, or even the whole family! Who knows, you might get hooked more than your child!
With Minecraft, the player is in control of making their own world. What makes it appealing for kids is that their imaginations are their limit! In this game, they can build mines, battle mobs, and go through different landscapes. Just remember to update it regularly to access new tools, locations, and spaces.
There are two modes in this game. The creative mode provides the players with unlimited resources. With survival mode, users can craft armors and weapons to protect what they built from dangerous mobs. Also, Minecraft can be played alone or with the company of friends.
Through this game, your child can develop their creativity and problem-solving skills. In fact, some schools use this as their instructional materials for primary through intermediate and secondary school. However, you may want to negotiate a screen time with your little one as it can be addictive.
It's time to put those dancing shoes on and groove to the beat with Just Dance 2022! The game offers 40 new songs and new universes that will make your little one excited to play. You can also create custom playlists based on your child's favorite tunes.
Besides helping your little one stay active, Just Dance 2022 also fosters teamwork among the players. Activating Sweat Mode allows the user to see how many calories they've burned and how long they've been dancing. They can also team up with other users through Co-op Mode, which lets them combine their scores.
If you're worried about the age-appropriateness of the game, don't fret! Just Dance blurs out lyrics that may not be suitable for children. It also contains 8 child-friendly songs and choreographies for younger kids. This way, the whole family can have fun while staying fit!
This is right up your children’s court if they are into basketball. The goal of this video game is to shoot the ball and score the most, just like the actual game. With NBA 2K22, players can team up or play against other players, helping them learn the importance of teamwork. There are also different game modes offered that will surely fit every preference.
In the latest version of the game, players can expect more on-the-court action, including new moves and combos, an improved blocking system, and a stronger emphasis on Shot IQ to help them score those 3-pointers. Compared to the previous releases, users have also observed that the graphics and effects are crisper and more realistic this time around.
Some have mentioned that it is better played on a gaming console as this provides a more immersive experience for the player. However, they pointed out that characters are not easy to control. But if your kids really love basketball, they will definitely find their way around it!
For your budding chef, you might want to get your hands on the latest Cooking Mama game. It features over 80 recipes and even has a vegetarian mode for those who follow this type of diet. From classic Japanese dishes to trendy desserts, this game teaches your little one some handy kitchen skills that they can use in the future!
If they're up for a challenge, they can activate Cookstar Mode and practice their skills in the kitchen. In Potluck Mode, they can play mini-games with their friends, cousins, or schoolmates. However, some users have noted that the motion sensors are a bit off, so you might want to keep that in mind before purchasing the game.
Another Nintendo game has made it on our list, and this time, it's a puzzle game! In Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker, the player must find the gold stars and hidden gems while evading enemy attacks and navigating their way through the confusing mazes.
But worry not, as the user can tilt the camera and touch the screen to see the treasures more clearly. To add to the fun, the game makers have included some Super Mario Odyssey levels and added different locales that players can explore, like New Donk City.
Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker will challenge your little one's mind, especially when they try to figure out what to do next. This game can also teach them the value of perseverance when reaching their goals. As they go on, they will surely learn to enjoy solving puzzles!
If your child is into sports as well as video games, this might be the perfect game for them! Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 features more than 30 events such as karate, surfing, volleyball, and marathon. The player can also choose between different characters, including Mario, Sonic, Peach, Dr. Eggman, and Bowser.
What's more, is that SEGA and Nintendo brought back the iconic 2D games that the parents grew up with, and the kids will grow to love. Plus, users are given the freedom to choose how they want to play the game. Your child can use either the motion or button control or the single or dual Joy-Con.
They can also utilize the single-player mode or multiplayer mode, depending on their preference. This game can help your little one hone their hand-eye coordination skills as they try to win the game. It can also teach them good sportsmanship, even virtually.
This action-packed game will surely keep your child on their toes! In Lego Marvel Super Heroes 2, the goal is to defeat the villain Kang the Conqueror while traveling through space and time. Hence, it can enhance your little one's imagination and creativity.
Here, the player will be able to travel through Ancient Egypt, Sakaar, NYC in the year 2099, and other locations in Chronopolis. The game also features iconic Marvel superheroes and supervillains, including Iron Man, Captain America, Spiderman, Ms. Marvel, and more! Plus, the four-player mode allows the user to play with or against their friends and family.
With this new version, the player can manipulate time in order to change a few elements in the game, reach the next level, or discover secrets that can lead to victory. Do note that this is a continuation of the first installment of the Lego Marvel Super Heroes video game, so you might want to pick that up before proceeding with this one.
In this game, your child will take the role of the Mighty Pups as they embark on a mission to save Adventure Bay. After getting hit by a meteor, the pups have to restore the town back to its former glory using their special powers. Playing this game would be even more fun when your little one teams up with a friend in co-op mode!
Since the mechanics of the game are quite simple, younger children will enjoy playing it. They would have to collect pup treats, use the controls to win the mini-games, and avoid the obstacles along the way, making it a great game to introduce to your pre-schooler. The graphics are also visually appealing, which your little one will love!
Though you've probably chosen a game or two to purchase for your child, you still might have some questions about it. Our expert Och Gonzalez answers the most commonly asked questions about kids' video games below.
Video games can teach children a variety of skills related to problem-solving, creativity, social and emotional development, hand-eye coordination, and a healthy sense of competition. However, parents must take extra care in choosing the video games their children can play to ensure that they are appropriate and have educational value.
For kids aged 6 years old and above, a schedule of 30-60 minutes per day on school days and 2 hours (or less) on weekends is recommended. It's even shorter for kids under 6 years old, who should only have less than an hour of screen time per day. Parents should also have a "media plan" that clarifies the time limits for playing video games and also allows time for non-screen time activities.
To keep gaming under control, parents should set time limits and be firm and consistent in enforcing them. Game consoles and devices may also be kept away from children during those periods not allotted for game playing. Make sure your child has other activities to do every day, especially those that keep them active and moving, and offer positive reinforcement during these activities.
Besides playing video games, you can do other indoor activities with your kids. And being in quarantine should not stop you from enjoying your time at home! Have fun while staying safe with these products that we reviewed and highly recommend.
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Author: J. Ausa
Re-editor: Aprille Jarcia
No. 1: Nintendo|Animal Crossing: New Horizons|MDE
No. 2: Nintendo|Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
No. 3: Mojang Studios|Minecraft Starter Collection
No. 4: Ubisoft|Just Dance 2022
No. 5: 2K, Inc.|NBA 2K22: Standard Edition|R3
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