Check the console first
Video Games for Kids: Choose by Console, Age, and Players
A good game on the wrong system is a disappointing gift. Start with the exact console or PC, then check the child’s age and how they want to play. These seven picks cover different kinds of fun, with physical and digital editions identified in their buying briefs.
Researched buying advice; no hands-on testing is claimed. Retailer ratings are dated snapshots. Some shopping links may earn us a commission.
Compare 8 picks at a glance
Estimated budget bands, not live prices. Scroll the table sideways on small screens.
| Gift / age | Budget band | A reason to choose it | Check first |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mario Kart 8 Deluxe — Nintendo SwitchAges 6–12 | $50–$100 | Family racing nights | Up to four local players need compatible controllers |
| Super Mario Bros. Wonder — Nintendo SwitchAges 6–12 | $50–$100 | Shared platforming adventures | Extra controllers may be needed for local multiplayer |
| Animal Crossing: New Horizons — Nintendo SwitchAges 7–12 | $50–$100 | Decorating and collecting | One shared island per console, even with multiple profiles |
| Kirby and the Forgotten Land — Nintendo SwitchAges 10–12 | $25–$50 | Exploration and ability-based puzzles | Cartoon combat and boss fights; ESRB recommends ages 10+ |
| Minecraft — Nintendo SwitchAges 10–12 | $25–$50 | Children who like planning large builds | Online interaction and optional paid content need account controls |
| ASTRO BOT — PlayStation 5Ages 10–12 | $25–$50 | Exploring levels and finding secrets | Requires a PS5 with a disc drive; not PS4 or Switch |
| Forza Horizon 5 Premium — Xbox / PC DigitalAges 8–12 | $50–$100 | Racing fans who want a large world to explore | No local split-screen multiplayer |
| Sonic Superstars — Nintendo SwitchAges 7–12 | Under $25 | Families who already have compatible Nintendo Switch hardware. | Requires a compatible console and enough controllers; fast movement can be challenging for beginners. |
Match the system and the format
Our Mario Kart, Wonder, Animal Crossing, Kirby, and Minecraft listings are Switch editions. ASTRO BOT is a PS5 disc, so a disc-capable PS5 is needed. The Forza listing is a digital Xbox/Windows PC code. Check the exact retailer listing and PC requirements; a familiar title does not make every edition interchangeable.
Read three parts of the rating
ESRB separates the age category, content descriptors, and interactive elements. An E10+ category is aimed at ages ten and up. Also look for notices about online interaction or purchases; those describe a different concern from the game’s difficulty. Our editorial gift ages do not override the content rating.
Sources: ESRB
Decide what playing together means
For a shared TV session, start by comparing Mario Kart and Wonder. Kirby has a local helper role, while ASTRO BOT is single-player; siblings can take turns but cannot play simultaneously. ASTRO BOT has no online communication or in-game purchases. Forza’s multiplayer is online, so it is a different gift from a same-screen racing game.
Sources: ESRB
Allow time before the first session
A digital gift may need an account, a download, and storage. Physical games can also need updates. If you are buying for another household, confirm that the edition is welcome before redeeming a code or opening packaging. Budget for any separate controller or membership the chosen mode needs.
The short list
Use Save to keep a candidate and Compare to put up to three side by side. Open the full brief for contents, play ideas, sources, and trade-offs.
Best Toy Guide pick · ages 6–12
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe — Nintendo Switch
Best for video games
Short races and same-screen competition for families who already own a Nintendo Switch.
Best Toy Guide pick · ages 6–12
Super Mario Bros. Wonder — Nintendo Switch
Best for video games
A side-scrolling adventure with surprising level changes and room for four local players.
Best Toy Guide pick · ages 7–12
Animal Crossing: New Horizons — Nintendo Switch
Best for video games
An island to decorate and explore at a gentler pace, with plenty of reading along the way.
Best Toy Guide pick · ages 10–12
Kirby and the Forgotten Land — Nintendo Switch
Best for video games
A colorful 3D adventure with two difficulty choices and a local helper role.
Best Toy Guide pick · ages 10–12
Minecraft — Nintendo Switch
Best for video games
A digital building sandbox with Creative and Survival modes for different kinds of play.
Best Toy Guide pick · ages 10–12
ASTRO BOT — PlayStation 5
Best for video games
A single-player rescue adventure with inventive movement powers and hidden robots to find.
Best Toy Guide pick · ages 8–12
Forza Horizon 5 Premium — Xbox / PC Digital
Best for video games
An open-world racing game with the base game and Premium extras for Xbox and Windows.
Best Toy Guide pick · ages 7–12
Sonic Superstars — Nintendo Switch
Best for video games
Nintendo Switch edition of the side-scrolling Sonic adventure. Compatible console sold separately.
Ready to check retailer prices?
- Mario Kart 8 Deluxe — Nintendo SwitchCheck price at Amazon ↗
- Super Mario Bros. Wonder — Nintendo SwitchCheck price at Amazon ↗
- Animal Crossing: New Horizons — Nintendo SwitchCheck price at Amazon ↗
- Kirby and the Forgotten Land — Nintendo SwitchCheck price at Amazon ↗
- Minecraft — Nintendo SwitchCheck price at Amazon ↗
- ASTRO BOT — PlayStation 5Check price at Amazon ↗
- Forza Horizon 5 Premium — Xbox / PC DigitalCheck price at Amazon ↗
- Sonic Superstars — Nintendo SwitchCheck price at Amazon ↗
Amazon links can earn a commission. Other retailer links are direct; prices and stock are confirmed by the retailer.
Before you choose
Does an Everyone rating mean a game is easy for young children?
No. A content rating is not a difficulty score. Reading, navigation, controller use, and patience still affect the fit. Our buying briefs describe the play alongside the ESRB information.
Which listing works on PC?
The Forza Horizon 5 digital listing identifies Windows PC compatibility as well as Xbox. Check the retailer’s redemption instructions and hardware requirements. The Switch Minecraft listing does not include a PC Java license.
Checked sources