Video games may have a reputation for being violent and inappropriate for younger audiences, but not all of them are like that. In fact, there are a variety of games tailored towards children and families, many of which allow everyone to get in on the fun.
Whether you're looking for a distraction from your life or looking to entertain a family, colorful, wholesome games can be the perfect way to unwind. Of course, classic titles like Mario Party can be fun, but if you are looking to add a new title to your library, there are many family-friendly games that often get overlooked.
Overcooked! 2
Available on PC, Mac, Linux, PlayStation 4, Xbox One and Nintendo Switch
If you are looking for a game that promotes cooperation over competition, this cooking simulator game may be perfect for your family to enjoy. In Overcooked 2, players work together in teams of up to four to prepare and cook orders in a variety of different restaurant settings.
In addition to the challenges of working together, players also have to navigate obstacles that add a layer of difficulty to the game. Additional levels are available as DLC (both free and paid), so there are plenty of fun challenges to enjoy. And, if you get tired of playing with your family, there is also an online multiplayer mode available. Finally, Overcooked 2 is available on all platforms, so pretty much anyone can enjoy this title.
LittleBigPlanet 3
Available on PlayStation 3 and PlayStation 4
The latest iteration in this platforming series that has been around for more than a decade has puzzles that younger players will be able to solve in its main story mode, as well as a creative mode that will allow players of all ages to flex their imaginations and build their own levels. Players can then share their creations and download levels from others as well, meaning there's an endless amount of content available.
Characters like Sackboy and a host of knitted friends are adorable, appealing to young and old alike, and LittleBigPlanet 3 can be a great game to play with younger children to get them involved and interested in gaming. Plus, the game has a cooperative mode that allows the whole family to get in on the fun, whether they're on the couch together or playing online.
LEGO Game Series
Various games available on all platforms
Another host of games with character designs that border on cute are the LEGO line of games. If your family likes watching the Marvel Cinematic Universe or Harry Potter films together, they'll also enjoy playing through those familiar worlds with a quirky LEGO twist.
While not all titles are available on all platforms, the longevity of the LEGO series means there are titles available for current and older generation consoles, and some titles are also available for PC gamers. Some of the puzzles may be more difficult for younger children, but most of the games offer multiplayer options so older siblings and parents can help out.
Yooka-Laylee
Available on PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One and Nintendo Switch
This colorful platformer follows its main characters, Yooka and Laylee, a chameleon and his bat companion. The title characters are adorable, and levels filled with bright colors and collection aspects will appeal to younger audiences, while puzzles and nostalgic nods to Banjo-Kazooie will draw in older players as well.
Two players can work together, one controlling Yooka while the other controls Laylee. Completing the main-story will unlock competitive mini-games for up to four players, adding additional gameplay value. This is one game that you should not feel guilty continuing once the kids go to bed.
Although the game was met with mixed reviews upon its initial release, it garnered enough attention and favor for a spin-off, Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair, which was released in 2019.
Splatoon 2
Available on Nintendo Switch
A family-friendly take on a shooter, this Nintendo game trades bullets for colorful ink. Player control an Inkling (or an Octoling with the Octo Expansion DLC) who can morph between a humanoid child-like character and a squid form. Inklings use an array of weapons to shoot ink at other players, and can transform into their squid forms to collect more ink when they run low.
There is a single-player story mode, as well as an online and local multiplayer modes that can allow up to eight players to create battle tournaments. These modes do require multiple consoles, but watching others play and trading the controller between matches can be just as fun. There's no better way to blow off some steam than by playing a virtual paintball free-for-all.
Unravel Two
Available on PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One and Nintendo Switch
Unravel Two follows two Yarnys, small creatures made of yarn (similar in design to Sackboy from Little Big Planet) that the player controls. The main storyline, which can be played by one or two players, takes the Yarnys through stunning landscapes inspired by the developer's home country of Sweden that is broken down over several chapters.
In multiplayer mode, players must work cooperatively to solve puzzles and manipulate the world around them to advance through levels. The characters' small size means that players will gain a new perspective of every day objects in-game which, paired with the character design, may appeal to younger players. Meanwhile, the beauty of the game itself and the complexity of puzzles will draw in older siblings and parents.