Contrary to outdated (and unfounded) assumptions that video games rot children’s brains, research shows gaming has a host of potential cognitive benefits for kids. But not all games are suitable for children, so parents need to be discerning about what makes its way to their kid’s screen. Here’s a list of five kid-friendly video games that your children will enjoy and parents can feel good about letting them play.
Pode is a character-based puzzle game that starts out simple and grows in complexity as a player progresses.
Pode is visually stunning and manages to be both fun and relaxing at the same time. It’s designed as a cooperative adventure, but it is also enjoyable to play solo as well. Characters are filled with personality, and the game focuses on friendship and teamwork.
There are no content or safety concerns that parents need to be aware of with Pode.
For the first time in this popular game’s long and storied history, Princess Zelda comes out of the shadows and replaces Link as the protagonist.
Echoes of Wisdom encourages creative problem-solving, resourcefulness, and out-of-the-box thinking. It’s empowering to see the princess take the reins for once and themes of gender equality, responsibility, and compassion are threaded throughout. Because Zelda primarily uses her wand instead of the more traditional weapons Link carries, this game features less combat than its predecessors.
There’s a small amount of violence, but it’s quite tame. The fanciful enemies, cartoonish violence, and lack of blood and gore keep things light. When enemies are defeated, they just disappear.
Super Mario Bros. Wonder is a traditional side-scrolling Super Mario game with fun updates and modern graphics.
It’s been over a decade since the last side-scrolling addition to the Mario Bros franchise and friends, it was worth the wait. The graphics in this game are nothing short of amazing. Players can choose from a full arsenal of Nintendo characters to embody and even spend time as a delightfully rotund, water-shooting elephant (so fun!).
Super Mario Bros. Wonder is nostalgic without being dated, and it’s likely to be a hit with the whole family. The multiplayer option (either locally or online) promotes teamwork, and the story is centered around working together for the common good.
Like you’d expect from Mario games, there are enemies to defeat, but they’re cartoonish and non-human. The implication is that enemies are just knocked out or knocked off-screen, rather than being killed. Online play is possible, so make sure you’ve set up Nintendo parental controls, especially for younger kids.
This game is a baseball simulation that lets gamers play as their favorite MLB players and teams. It’s the latest installment in a popular series, with improvements over the older versions, including updates to reflect recent league rule changes.
What could be more wholesome than baseball? Amateur players and professional fans alike will enjoy suiting up and going head-to-head with rival teams. Players can even use historical mode and play in the Negro Leagues or (new with this edition) in an all-female league. Cross-platform play is also possible, so your kid can join their friends regardless of their gaming setup.
There are no content considerations for parents to be aware of, but in-app purchases are possible.
This point-and-click adventure is based on the classic Nancy Drew mystery novels. Players take on the role of junior detective Nancy Drew to solve mysteries using her ultimate superpower: her brain.
Nancy Drew: Mystery of the Seven Keys is a fun way for your kids to learn about historical events and figures, as well as other cultures, languages, and customs. They will practice critical thinking and problem-solving as they work to catch the culprit.
There violence in the game, but it’s mild.
Parents should be aware of what video games their kids are playing to make sure the content is age-appropriate, but there are plenty of wholesome and fun options for kids to enjoy.
Heads up: BrightCanary can help you supervise your child’s online activity. While it doesn’t cover gaming platforms, the app’s advanced technology scans your child’s social media, Google, YouTube, and text messages so you can keep an eye on what media they’re consuming online — like video game playthroughs on YouTube and conversations with the friends they game with. Download the app today to start your free trial.
