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.

The 10 Best Video Games for Kids of 2024

Collage of kids holding gaming controllers on a purple background — Verywell Family / Chloe Jeong

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.

Digital Consumption: What to Know

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:

Sleep deprivation
Attention issues after gaming
What virtual violence is conveying
Lack of time management skills

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:

Nintendo Mario Kart 8 Deluxe at Amazon ($49)

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Best for Preschoolers:

LeapFrog LeapLand Adventures Learning Video Game at Amazon ($25)

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Best for Elementary Aged:

Nintendo Switch Pokémon Snap at Amazon ($60)

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Best for Preteens:

Microsoft Minecraft at Amazon ($30)

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Best for Online Play:

Innersloth Among Us at Xbox.com (See Price)

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Best 3D:

Nintendo Super Mario Odyssey at Amazon (See Price)

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Best Sports:

EA Sports FIFA 23 at Amazon ($18)

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Best Multiplayer:

Team 17 Overcooked! 2 (Xbox One) at Amazon ($28)

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Best Interactive:

Ubisoft Just Dance 2023 at Amazon ($30)

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Best for the Family:

SEGA Tokyo Olympic Games 2020 at Amazon ($20)

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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

Best Overall

Nintendo Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

Amazon

View On Amazon $49 View On Walmart $45 View On Best Buy $50

Pros

Fun for a group
Beginner mode makes it easier for kids
Four players can play with one Switch

Cons

Limited system compatibility

Why We Recommend It

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.

Key Specs:

Game System Compatibility: Nintendo Switch
ESRB Rating: E
Multiplayer vs. Single Player: Multiplayer; up to 4 players

Best for Preschoolers

LeapFrog LeapLand Adventures Learning Video Game

Amazon

View On Amazon $25 View On Walmart $35

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

Why We Recommend It

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.

Key Specs:

Game System Compatibility: N/A (TV)
ESRB Rating: N/A (ages 3 years and up)
Multiplayer vs. Single Player: Multiplayer; up to 5 players

Best for Elementary Aged

Nintendo Switch Pokémon Snap

Amazon

View On Amazon $60 View On Walmart $51 View On Best Buy $58

Pros

Easy to play
Laid back game play

Cons

Single player
Only available on Nintendo Switch

Why We Recommend It

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.

Key Specs:

Game System Compatibility: Nintendo Switch
ESRB Rating: E
Multiplayer vs. Single Player: Single player

Best for Preteens

Microsoft Minecraft

Amazon

View On Amazon $30 View On Walmart $30 View On Best Buy $30

Pros

Two modes of play
Build or battle
Available on several system types

Cons

Sometimes lags

Why We Recommend It

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.

Key Specs:

Game System Compatibility: Nintendo Switch, Xbox, PlayStation, Windows, and more
ESRB Rating: E10+
Multiplayer vs. Single Player: Single player or multiplayer

Best for Online Play

Innersloth Among Us

Innersloth

View On Xbox.com

Pros

Can play on wifi on nearly any device
Up to 15 players
Quick game play

Cons

Ability to interact with players

Why We Recommend It

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.

Key Specs:

Game System Compatibility: Google Play, Apple App Store, Nintendo, PS 4, PS 5, Xbox, Online
ESRB Rating: Everyone 10+
Multiplayer vs. Single Player: Multiplayer; up to 15 players online

Best 3D

Nintendo Super Mario Odyssey

Courtesy of Amazon

View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Gamestop.com

Pros

3D kingdoms
One or two players
Unlock new figures

Cons

Main story is short

Why We Recommend It

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.

Key Specs:

Game System Compatibility: Nintendo Switch
ESRB Rating: Everyone 10+
Multiplayer vs. Single Player: Multiplayer; up to 2 players

Best Sports

EA Sports FIFA 23

Amazon

View On Amazon $18 View On Walmart $54 View On Hsn.com

Pros

Amazing visuals
Single or multiplayer modes

Cons

Limited differences from previous versions
Soccer only game

Why We Recommend It

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.

Key Specs:

Game System Compatibility: Nintendo Switch, XBox, Playstation
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Multiplayer vs. Single Player: Single player or multiplayer

Best Multiplayer

Team 17 Overcooked! 2 (Xbox One)

Amazon

View On Amazon $28 View On Walmart $20 View On Gamestop.com

Pros

Up to four players
Rated E
Compatible on major system types

Cons

Slightly challenging

Why We Recommend It

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.

Key Specs:

Game System Compatibility: Nintendo Switch, Xbox, Playstation, Windows
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Multiplayer vs. Single Player: Multiplayer; up to 4 players

Best Interactive

Ubisoft Just Dance 2023

Amazon

View On Amazon $30 View On Walmart $20 View On Target $30

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

Why We Recommend It

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!

Key Specs:

Game System Compatibility: Playstation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch
ESRB Rating: E for Everyone
Multiplayer vs. Single Player: Multiplayer

Best for the Family

SEGA Tokyo Olympic Games 2020

Amazon

View On Amazon $20

Pros

Both single or multiplayer
18 events
Customizable avatar

Cons

Everyone 10+ rating
Some games require taking turns instead of dual playing

Why We Recommend It

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.

Key Specs:

Game System Compatibility: Nintendo Switch, Playstation, Xbox
ESRB Rating: Everyone 10+
Multiplayer vs. Single Player: Single or multiplayer

How We Selected Video Games for Kids

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.

How to Know If Games Are Age-Appropriate

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.

E: This level rating means “Everyone,” so the content is typically suitable for all ages. There may be mild language or mild violence depending on the game.
E 10+: Meant for “Everyone 10+,” children from 10 years old and up can play the content in video games with this rating. It’s once again possible there will be fantasy, cartoon, mild language or violence, or suggestive themes.
T: Standing for “Teen,” this content is usually OK for children ages 13 years old and up. However, language is typically stronger, and there may be more crude humor, gambling, or violence depending on the video game.
M: “Mature 17+” is for those 17 years old and older due to content possibly containing blood/gore, sexual content, strong language, and intense violence.
A: This rating is for “Adults 18+” because the content is not suitable for children at all. Video games with this rating may contain gambling with real money, graphic sexual content, or long moments with intense violence.
RP: RP stands for “Rating Pending,” meaning video games with this rating have not yet been assigned a final ESRB rating.

What to Look for When Buying Video Games for Kids

System Type: Because video games aren’t a “one-game-fits-all” when it comes to systems, you want to ensure the video games you’re looking at are compatible with your child’s system. Some of the more popular ones you’ve probably heard of include PlayStation, Xbox, PC games, or mobile games. Typically, you will see a description of which system the video game is compatible with on the packaging. Other cues to look for: XBOX is known for their green cases while PlayStation will show a “PS4” with the number being the console it matches to.
Cost: Many parents and caregivers may be shocked to see some of the most popular video games will cost more than $50, but this will depend on what type of system your child has. Consider the cost of the video game your child has had their eye on or what you think they may like. Some games may be on the cheaper end, but require extra costs once playing for additional features. Do your research on a video game to see exactly where your money (or your child’s!) money is exactly going.

Frequently Asked Questions

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.

Why Trust Verywell Family

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.