Quick Parent Guide to Popular Kids Video Games

In today’s digital age, video games have become a major part of kids’ lives, offering fun, creativity, and social connection. However, while these games can be a source of entertainment and learning, they also come with potential risks. This guide provides parents with an understanding of some of the most popular games so parents can help their children enjoy them responsibly. You will see a brief summary, the recommended age, the benefits, the risks, and what parents can control to minimize risks like exposure to inappropriate content, online strangers, and excessive screen time.

1. Minecraft

Summary: A creative sandbox game where players build, explore, and survive in a blocky, open-world environment.
Age: Rated E10+ (ages 10+), but younger kids can play with supervision.
Benefits: Encourages creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration.
Cons/Safety Concerns: Online multiplayer mode can expose kids to strangers; unmoderated chat can include inappropriate language or behavior.
Parental Controls:
- Can you block talking to strangers? Yes, parents can turn off multiplayer and restrict chat.
- Time Limits: Use Xbox Family Settings or PlayStation/Nintendo Switch parental controls for console play.
- Learn More: Minecraft Parental Controls Guide

2. Fortnite

Summary: A multiplayer battle royale where players fight to be the last one standing or work together in creative modes.
Age: Rated T (ages 13+) for violence and online interaction.
Benefits: Encourages teamwork and strategy.
Cons/Safety Concerns: Open voice/text chat can expose kids to strangers. Potential exposure to cyberbullying or inappropriate content.
Parental Controls:
- Can you block talking to strangers? Yes, you can disable chat and friend requests.
- Time Limits: Use the Epic Games launcher or console parental controls.
- Learn More: Epic Games Parental Controls

3. Roblox

Summary: A platform where players can create and play games of various genres.
Age: Rated E10+ (ages 10+), but content varies widely.
Benefits: Promotes creativity and coding skills.
Cons/Safety Concerns: Unmoderated games may contain inappropriate content; open chat can expose kids to strangers or scammers.
Parental Controls:
- Can you block talking to strangers? Yes, disable chat and limit interactions to pre-approved friends.
- Time Limits: Controlled via device settings.
- Learn More: Roblox Parental Controls Guide

4. Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Summary: A relaxing life-simulation game where players build an island and interact with animal villagers.
Age: Rated E (ages 6+), suitable for all ages.
Benefits: Encourages creativity and promotes relaxation.
Cons/Safety Concerns: Online multiplayer allows visiting others’ islands, which could expose kids to strangers.
Parental Controls:
- Can you block talking to strangers? Yes, by disabling online play.
- Time Limits: Set using the Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app.
- Learn More: Nintendo Switch Parental Controls

5. Among Us

Summary: A social deduction game where players complete tasks and uncover an “imposter.”
Age: Rated E10+ (ages 10+) for cartoon violence and online interactions.
Benefits: Builds social skills and strategy.
Cons/Safety Concerns: Open chat allows conversations with strangers; unmoderated chat can include inappropriate language.
Parental Controls:
- Can you block talking to strangers? Use Quick Chat mode to restrict communication.
- Time Limits: Use device or app-based controls.
- Learn More: InnerSloth Parent Guide

6. Rocket League

Summary: A soccer game with rocket-powered cars.
Age: Rated E (ages 6+).
Benefits: Encourages teamwork and coordination.
Cons/Safety Concerns: Voice chat and text chat can expose kids to strangers or inappropriate language.
Parental Controls:
- Can you block talking to strangers? Yes, disable chat via game settings.
- Time Limits: Use console parental controls.
- Learn More: Epic Games Parental Controls

7. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

Summary: A family-friendly racing game with colorful tracks and characters.
Age: Rated E (ages 6+).
Benefits: Fun for families; no exposure to inappropriate content.
Cons/Safety Concerns: Online multiplayer allows interactions with strangers.
Parental Controls:
- Can you block talking to strangers? Yes, disable online play or restrict access to friends-only matches.
- Time Limits: Set using Nintendo’s parental controls.
- Learn More: Nintendo Switch Parental Controls

8. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

Summary: An open-world adventure game filled with exploration and problem-solving.
Age: Rated E10+ for mild fantasy violence.
Benefits: Promotes exploration, creativity, and critical thinking.
Cons/Safety Concerns: No online interactions, so no stranger danger concerns.
Parental Controls:
- Can you block talking to strangers? N/A – no online play.
- Time Limits: Set using Nintendo’s parental controls.
- Learn More: Nintendo Switch Parental Controls

9. Splatoon 3

Summary: A team-based shooter with colorful, ink-based battles.
Age: Rated E10+ for cartoon violence.
Benefits: Encourages teamwork and strategy.
Cons/Safety Concerns: Online multiplayer includes text/voice chat.
Parental Controls:
- Can you block talking to strangers? Yes, you can disable online communication.
- Time Limits: Use Nintendo’s parental controls.
- Learn More: Nintendo Switch Parental Controls

10. Pokémon Series (e.g., Pokémon Scarlet and Violet)

Summary: A role-playing game where players catch, train, and battle Pokémon.
Age: Rated E (ages 6+).
Benefits: Encourages critical thinking and strategy.
Cons/Safety Concerns: Online battles and trades can connect kids with strangers.
Parental Controls:
- Can you block talking to strangers? Yes, disable online features.
- Time Limits: Use Nintendo parental controls.
- Learn More: Nintendo Switch Parental Controls

Bonus: Brief Summary of Discord

What It Is: A platform for voice, video, and text communication often used by gamers to chat while playing.
Dangers:
- Exposure to inappropriate content in public servers.
- Risk of contact with strangers and predators.
- Minimal oversight in private chats.
Parental Tips:
1. Set up a private Discord server for your child and their friends.
2. Educate your child about the risks of sharing personal information or accepting friend requests from strangers.
3. Use Discord’s Family Center feature to monitor activity.
4. Most importantly, maintain open and ongoing discussions with your child about online safety. Encourage them to come to you if they feel uncomfortable or unsafe.

Don't See The Game Your Interested In?

Common Sense Media is a great resource to help parents make informed decisions about media and technology for their children. It offers detailed reviews, age-based ratings, and both the positive aspects and potential risks of specific:

Movies
TV shows
Video games
Apps
Books

The site also provides expert advice, tips, and resources on parenting in the digital age.