The Best Xbox Series X Games For Kids

The Xbox Series X offers a vast library of family-friendly titles that cater to various ages and interests, ranging from creative sandboxes to high-speed racers. These games are designed to provide engaging experiences that promote problem-solving, teamwork, and hand-eye coordination. With the power of current-generation hardware, these titles deliver vibrant visuals and smooth performance for a more immersive gameplay experience. Selecting the right game involves considering the complexity of mechanics and the appropriateness of the content for younger audiences.

‘Minecraft’ (2011)

‘Minecraft’ is a cornerstone of creative gaming that allows players to build, explore, and survive in a procedurally generated block world. Developed by Mojang Studios and published by Xbox Game Studios, the title features two primary modes: Creative and Survival. In Creative mode, children have unlimited resources to construct anything they can imagine without the threat of enemies. Survival mode introduces resource management and combat, teaching players how to navigate a world filled with diverse biomes and creatures.

‘Forza Horizon 5’ (2021)

‘Forza Horizon 5’ provides an expansive open-world racing experience set in the diverse landscapes of Mexico. Developed by Playground Games and published by Xbox Game Studios, the game features a massive roster of hundreds of licensed vehicles. Its accessible driving mechanics and robust assist options make it suitable for younger players who may be new to racing games. The game encourages exploration through seasonal challenges and a variety of racing disciplines, from off-road rallies to street circuits.

‘LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga’ (2022)

‘LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga’ compiles the narratives of all nine main films into one massive, humorous adventure. Developed by Traveller’s Tales and published by Warner Bros. Games, the title allows players to control hundreds of characters from the ‘Star Wars’ universe. The gameplay focuses on puzzle-solving, combat, and exploration across iconic planets like Tatooine and Hoth. Its drop-in, drop-out local cooperative play makes it an ideal choice for parents and children to play together.

‘Psychonauts 2’ (2021)

‘Psychonauts 2’ is a platforming adventure that follows Razputin Aquato, a young psychic who joins an international espionage organization. Developed by Double Fine Productions and published by Xbox Game Studios, the game explores themes of mental health and empathy through creative, surreal level designs. Players navigate through the minds of various characters, using psychic powers to solve puzzles and fight personified inner demons. Its vibrant art style and witty writing provide a compelling experience for older children and teenagers.

‘Sea of Thieves’ (2018)

‘Sea of Thieves’ offers a shared-world pirate adventure where players sail ships, hunt for treasure, and battle mythical sea creatures. Developed by Rare and published by Xbox Game Studios, the game emphasizes teamwork and communication among crew members. Players can customize their characters and ships as they complete voyages for various trading companies. The game’s colorful, cartoonish art style helps maintain a lighthearted tone despite the presence of skeletons and krakens.

‘Ori and the Will of the Wisps’ (2020)

‘Ori and the Will of the Wisps’ is a visually stunning 2D platformer that tells an emotional story of friendship and bravery. Developed by Moon Studios and published by Xbox Game Studios, it follows a small spirit named Ori as they navigate a dangerous forest. The gameplay requires precision jumping and the strategic use of various combat and traversal abilities. While the game features some challenging segments, its beautiful hand-painted environments and orchestral score make it a memorable experience.

‘Fall Guys’ (2020)

‘Fall Guys’ is a colorful battle royale game that pits dozens of players against each other in a series of chaotic mini-games. Developed by Mediatonic and published by Epic Games, the title features bean-like characters navigating obstacle courses and team challenges. The simple controls and physics-based gameplay make it easy for children to pick up and play. Frequent updates introduce new costumes and levels, keeping the experience fresh for returning players.

‘Sonic Frontiers’ (2022)

‘Sonic Frontiers’ marks a significant evolution for the franchise by introducing “Open Zone” gameplay across the mysterious Starfall Islands. Developed by Sonic Team and published by Sega, the game combines high-speed platforming with light combat and puzzle-solving. Players explore vast landscapes to collect Chaos Emeralds and uncover the secrets of an ancient civilization. The open nature of the world allows kids to move at their own pace while mastering Sonic’s signature speed.

‘SpongeBob SquarePants: The Cosmic Shake’ (2023)

‘SpongeBob SquarePants: The Cosmic Shake’ is a 3D platformer that takes the iconic characters on a journey through diverse “Wishworlds.” Developed by Purple Lamp and published by THQ Nordic, the game features locations based on classic episodes of the animated series. Players utilize various abilities, such as the Karate Kick and Fishhook Swing, to navigate levels and defeat enemies. The inclusion of the original voice cast ensures an authentic experience for fans of the show.

‘Minecraft Dungeons’ (2020)

‘Minecraft Dungeons’ is an action-RPG spin-off that swaps building for dungeon-crawling combat. Developed by Mojang Studios and Double Eleven and published by Xbox Game Studios, the game focuses on clearing levels filled with familiar ‘Minecraft’ mobs. Players collect gear and enchantments to customize their playstyle as they attempt to stop the Arch-Illager. Its simplified mechanics and cooperative multiplayer options make it an excellent introduction to the dungeon-crawler genre.

‘New Super Lucky’s Tale’ (2019)

‘New Super Lucky’s Tale’ is a classic 3D platformer starring an optimistic fox named Lucky. Developed and published by Playful Studios, the game tasks players with recovering the Book of Ages from the villainous Jinx. The levels vary between 3D exploration hubs, 2D side-scrolling challenges, and brain-teasing puzzles. Its charming character designs and accessible difficulty level make it a great choice for younger elementary-aged children.

‘Unravel Two’ (2018)

‘Unravel Two’ is a puzzle-platformer that follows two small creatures made of yarn, known as Yarnys, who are joined by a thread. Developed by Coldwood Interactive and published by Electronic Arts, the game is designed specifically for local cooperative play. Players must work together to swing across gaps, pull objects, and solve environmental puzzles. The background environments are highly detailed, depicting realistic Swedish landscapes that contrast with the whimsical protagonists.

‘Plants vs. Zombies: Battle for Neighborville’ (2019)

‘Plants vs. Zombies: Battle for Neighborville’ is a third-person shooter that continues the wacky conflict between flora and the undead. Developed by PopCap Games and published by Electronic Arts, the title features various character classes with unique abilities. Players can explore open free-roam regions or compete in objective-based multiplayer matches. The game’s bright colors and slapstick humor make it a family-friendly alternative to more mature shooters.

‘Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged’ (2023)

‘Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged’ brings the famous die-cast toy cars to life in high-speed arcade races. Developed and published by Milestone, the game features tracks set in everyday environments like a backyard or an arcade. Players can jump, drift, and use boosts to outmaneuver opponents and navigate loops. The inclusion of a track editor allows kids to build their own custom racing circuits using iconic orange pieces.

‘Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time’ (2020)

‘Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time’ is a challenging platformer that serves as a direct sequel to the original trilogy. Developed by Toys for Bob and published by Activision, the game introduces “Quantum Masks” that grant Crash and Coco new abilities to manipulate time and gravity. While the difficulty can be high, the addition of a “Modern” play mode provides infinite lives to reduce frustration. The cinematic animations and diverse levels keep the gameplay engaging from start to finish.

‘Spyro Reignited Trilogy’ (2018)

‘Spyro Reignited Trilogy’ features complete remakes of the first three ‘Spyro the Dragon’ games. Developed by Toys for Bob and published by Activision, the collection follows the adventures of a purple dragon as he saves his friends and recovers stolen eggs. Each game emphasizes exploration and collecting items across various fantasy realms. The updated graphics bring a modern look to the classic gameplay, making it appealing to a new generation of players.

‘Overcooked! All You Can Eat’ (2020)

‘Overcooked! All You Can Eat’ is a chaotic cooking simulation game that bundles both original titles and all their downloadable content. Developed by Ghost Town Games and Team17 and published by Team17, the game requires players to prepare meals under tight time constraints. Cooperation is essential, as players must coordinate chopping, cooking, and washing dishes in increasingly bizarre kitchens. The “Assist Mode” allows for longer round times and increased scores to help younger players succeed.

‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge’ (2022)

‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge’ is a side-scrolling beat ’em up that pays homage to classic arcade titles. Developed by Tribute Games and published by Dotemu, the game features vibrant pixel art and fluid combat mechanics. Players can choose from the four Turtles, Splinter, April O’Neil, and Casey Jones to fight the Foot Clan. Its local and online multiplayer support for up to six players makes it a fantastic social experience for groups of kids.

‘Disney Dreamlight Valley’ (2023)

‘Disney Dreamlight Valley’ is a life-simulation adventure game where players live alongside iconic Disney and Pixar characters. Developed and published by Gameloft, the game tasks players with restoring a magical valley that has been overtaken by “The Forgetting.” Activities include gardening, fishing, and decorating the valley to attract new residents like Mickey Mouse and Moana. The ongoing updates regularly add new characters and quests to keep the community engaged.

‘Paw Patrol World’ (2023)

‘Paw Patrol World’ is an open-world adventure game based on the popular children’s animated series. Developed by 3D Clouds and published by Outright Games, it allows players to explore Adventure Bay and other locations from the show. Children can control various pups, each with their unique vehicles and abilities, to complete missions and stop Mayor Humdinger’s schemes. The simple UI and guided objectives are specifically tailored for preschool and early elementary-aged kids.

‘Peppa Pig: World Adventures’ (2023)

‘Peppa Pig: World Adventures’ follows the titular character and her family as they travel to famous cities around the globe. Developed by Petoons Studio and published by Outright Games, the game emphasizes simple interactions and storytelling. Players can create their own animal character to join Peppa on her travels to London, Paris, and New York. The game uses the same art style and voice acting as the cartoon, making it very accessible for toddlers.

‘Grounded’ (2022)

‘Grounded’ is a survival-adventure game that shrinks players down to the size of an ant in a sprawling backyard. Developed by Obsidian Entertainment and published by Xbox Game Studios, the game requires players to build bases and craft tools to survive against giant insects. While it can be spooky, the “Arachnophobia Mode” allows players to adjust the appearance of spiders to make them less frightening. It encourages teamwork and creative problem-solving as players uncover the mystery of their predicament.

‘Stardew Valley’ (2016)

‘Stardew Valley’ is a beloved farming simulation game that encourages players to restore their grandfather’s old farm. Developed and published by ConcernedApe, the game involves planting crops, raising livestock, and mining for ores. Beyond farming, players can build relationships with the residents of Pelican Town and participate in seasonal festivals. Its peaceful gameplay loop and depth of content provide hundreds of hours of entertainment for players of all ages.

‘PowerWash Simulator’ (2022)

‘PowerWash Simulator’ offers a surprisingly satisfying experience centered around cleaning dirty objects and environments. Developed by FuturLab and published by Square Enix, the game tasks players with using high-pressure water to wash everything from cars to entire mansions. There is no time limit or pressure, allowing kids to work at their own pace in a stress-free environment. The game also features special crossover packs with franchises like ‘SpongeBob SquarePants’ and ‘Back to the Future.’

‘Tunic’ (2022)

‘Tunic’ is an isometric action-adventure game starring a small fox exploring a world filled with ancient secrets and puzzles. Developed by Tunic Team and published by Finji, the game is unique for its use of an in-game manual that players reconstruct as they progress. While the combat can be challenging, the game offers accessibility settings such as “No Fail Mode” to help younger players. The world is full of hidden paths and mysterious language, rewarding curiosity and exploration.

Please share which of these Xbox Series X games your family enjoys most in the comments.