The Best Kids’ Video Games
While today’s blockbuster video games often tackle serious themes and cater to mature audiences, we must not overlook a vital part of the gaming community: kids. Many of us fell in love with gaming during childhood, discovering its potential to entertain, educate, and inspire. For young players, video games are more than just fun—they’re gateways to creativity, problem-solving, and storytelling.
This list celebrates the best kids’ video games available today, from iconic PC classics to modern console hits. It’s a guide for parents, teachers, and young gamers looking to explore the medium responsibly and enjoyably.
Why Kids’ Games Matter
- Foundations for Lifelong Learning
Kids’ games often blend education and entertainment. Titles like Minecraft teach resource management and creativity, while games like Kerbal Space Program introduce basic physics concepts in a fun, interactive way. - A Gateway to Game Development
For many kids, playing video games ignites a passion for creating them. Platforms like hyperPad let young players take their first steps into game development on their iPads, turning ideas into interactive realities without needing programming skills. - Social and Emotional Development
Games with cooperative mechanics or shared experiences—like Roblox or Animal Crossing—help kids learn teamwork, empathy, and social interaction in safe, moderated environments.
The Best Kids’ Video Games Across Platforms
1. Minecraft (PC, Console, Mobile)
- Why It’s Great: A global phenomenon, Minecraft empowers kids to build entire worlds block by block. Its sandbox gameplay encourages creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration.
- Fun Fact: Minecraft is the best-selling game of all time, with over 238 million copies sold.
2. Roblox (PC, Mobile)
- Why It’s Great: Roblox combines gaming and game creation, allowing kids to play user-generated games or design their own.
- Educational Value: Roblox teaches basic programming logic through its intuitive creation tools, and some schools use it to introduce kids to coding.
3. Animal Crossing: New Horizons (Nintendo Switch)
- Why It’s Great: This life simulation game is perfect for younger players who enjoy creating cozy villages and interacting with adorable animal characters.
- Fun Fact: During the COVID-19 pandemic, Animal Crossing became a virtual hangout for millions worldwide.
4. Kerbal Space Program (PC, Console)
- Why It’s Great: This game combines space exploration with physics challenges, letting players design and launch rockets.
- Educational Value: It introduces orbital mechanics, encouraging kids to think critically and experiment.
5. Pokémon Series (Nintendo Switch)
- Why It’s Great: Pokémon games are beloved for their mix of adventure, strategy, and collection. The series has remained a favorite for kids since its debut in the 1990s.
- Fun Fact: Pokémon is the highest-grossing media franchise of all time, with over $100 billion USD in revenue.
6. Splatoon 3 (Nintendo Switch)
- Why It’s Great: This colorful, team-based shooter replaces traditional violence with ink-slinging fun, making it safe for kids while still offering competitive gameplay.
- Pro Tip: The single-player mode is a great introduction before jumping into online multiplayer.
7. Stardew Valley (PC, Console, Mobile)
- Why It’s Great: This charming farming simulator is perfect for teaching responsibility and long-term planning as players manage farms, relationships, and community projects.
Why iPad Games and Game Development Platforms Like hyperPad Are Ideal for Kids
Accessible and Portable
The iPad’s touchscreen and portability make it a fantastic device for younger users. Parents can easily manage screen time and content, ensuring a safe gaming environment.
Educational Potential
Beyond playing games, kids can create their own using apps like hyperPad. hyperPad provides an intuitive, no-code interface, allowing children to design interactive experiences and explore their creativity.
Introducing Game Dev Skills Early
Learning game dev skills builds confidence and problem-solving abilities. By starting with hyperPad, kids can take their first steps toward a rewarding, creative career while having fun along the way.
Encourage Creativity Through Gaming
Gaming isn’t just about entertainment—it’s a springboard for learning, creativity, and future skills. Whether kids are exploring vast worlds in Minecraft, solving puzzles in Stardew Valley, or designing their first games on hyperPad, they’re engaging with tools that nurture their potential.
Parents, teachers, and caregivers can help kids balance fun with growth by choosing games and platforms that spark curiosity and encourage exploration. After all, today’s young gamers could be tomorrow’s game dev pioneers!
Explore some of these fantastic games with your kids and consider introducing them to game development with hyperPad. You might just be nurturing the next big name in the gaming world.
