Best Xbox One Games for Kids

Video games for kids have become increasingly popular, only because they are stimulating and enjoyable, but also because parents and educational professionals have noted beneficial aspects for kids as well. According to David Dodge, Founder and CEO of CodaKid, there are actually numerous benefits associated with playing video games in childhood. “Video games can provide mental stimulation from all of the challenges, puzzles, and problems that they introduce. Games are designed to be challenging, which can give players a feeling of accomplishment when they beat levels or solve problems,” he explains. “Video games provide children and adults with mental health recovery time, as gameplay often transports players from stressful environments and provides a way to decompress from the worry and fear that surround them.”

Dodge adds that there are social benefits to playing video games as well. “Video games can provide a sense of community in both online and offline environments,” he says. “While players may find online communities during gameplay, kids, for example, often make offline friends on the playground when they find others that love the same games that they play.”

However, not all video games are created equally when it comes to being appropriate, engaging, and beneficial for kids. Here are a few things to consider:

What should you know before buying an Xbox game for kids?

• Genre or Type of Game: There are many types or genres of video games, such as Action, Adventure, Puzzle, Simulation, Strategy, or Educational. Pick games in the genres your child enjoys, or those that you feel are more appropriate.
• Number of Players: Xbox One games may be intended for one player or up to 8 or more, depending on the game. If your child wants to play alone, ensure the game is designed for one player. Similarly, if your child wants to play cooperatively or competitively with other siblings, friends, or family members, look for games that are designed for multiple players. 
• Age: All video games have a rating that denotes the audience for whom the game is appropriate, but it’s also important to consider the level of difficulty, skills needed, content, and appeal of the game relative to your child’s maturity and skill. 
• Technical Details: Some Xbox games are physical games while others are digital downloads. Some games also can only be played on the console, while some of the digital downloadable games can also be played online on the computer. Make sure you buy the format that works best for you and your child. There are also different Xbox consoles, so ensure the game you’re planning to buy is compatible with your child’s model.
• Price: Xbox One games for kids can range anywhere from free to $30 dollars or more. Many of the paid games have free demo versions so that your kids can sample the game before you buy the full version.

We reviewed dozens of the top Xbox One games for kids and evaluated them based on their educational value, engagement, value, difficulty, appropriateness, benefits, graphics, storyline, ease of controls, content, and ratings and reviews. Our recommendations for the best Xbox One video games for kids are below.

Check out our other recommendations on the best Nintendo Switch and Playstation video games for kids.