This list comprises games my four-year-old son has played and loved. In a world where most gamers are now becoming parents, I thought it would be cool to put together a list of games that you can enjoy with your little ones.
Please keep in mind that all these games are for Xbox. I acknowledge that games like the Super Mario franchise are great for kids, but this isn’t that when it comes to this list.
1. Lego Video Games (Lego Star Wars, Lego Marvel, Lego City, etc.)
Why it’s great: The LEGO video games are perfect for younger children, offering a mix of fun, creativity, and exploration in a safe, family-friendly environment. These games allow kids to build, solve puzzles, and interact with their favourite characters, featuring simple controls and plenty of humour.
Why We love this franchise: It has everything, from Marvel to cops and robbers, Batman to The Hobbit. As my son has explored different worlds, he has learned about superheroes and wants to play as his favourites. This franchise offers that and so much more.
Recommended for: Children who love playing with LEGO bricks and enjoy video games with simple mechanics will find these games perfect for them.
2. Paw Patrol: On a Roll
Why it’s great: This game is designed specifically for younger children, featuring simple missions, teamwork-focused gameplay, and fun interactions with beloved Paw Patrol characters. It’s engaging without being overwhelming.
Why We Loved this Game: Its theme is perfect—Paw Patrol is a TV show they watch a lot. It’s easy to understand, with plenty of guidance from the game on what to do next, plus some very fun minigames.
Recommended for:
Fans of the show and those who enjoy completing simple tasks with their favourite pups will love this game.
3. Goat Simulator Franchise
Why it’s great: It’s just great, silly fun—dressing up the goat, becoming other animals, and causing as much havoc as possible. What made it great for my child is the “pick up and play” nature of it.
Why We Loved It: We mostly play the third one, but in that game, you can do all sorts of things. Completing missions and unlocking more fun characters and clothes is really enjoyable.
Recommended for: People looking to have a wacky time without worrying about story progression will enjoy this game.
4. Minecraft (Creative Mode)
Why it’s great: In Creative Mode, Minecraft offers a relaxed, open-ended environment for kids to build and explore at their own pace. The non-violent gameplay promotes creativity, spatial awareness, and problem-solving.
Why We Love It: Minecraft Creative lets your mind run wild, and in the case of my little one, that also means lava and TNT. As well as exploring and discovering new things that could have lava on them or be blown away.
Recommended for: Kids who like to build and explore in a digital sandbox world.
5. Peppa Pig: World Adventures
Why it’s great: This game is perfect for fans of the Peppa Pig series. Kids can join Peppa and her friends in various fun, interactive activities. It’s simple, engaging, and full of charm that young children will adore.
Why We Loved It: It’s simple. Okay, we’ve kind of fallen away from it as they’ve gotten older, but for someone looking to get their child used to holding a controller, this game is perfect.
Recommended for: Peppa Pig fans who love interactive stories and games with lots of colourful visuals.
There are also some honourable mentions: Bluey for obvious reasons, Plants vs Zombies Franchise and Astro Bot on the PS5 as well.
As my child gets older I’m sure will share some awesome times in games I can’t wait for him to try. But as he grows I’m also 100% positive consoles and gaming in general will too. So who knows what kind of games he will be playing when he’s in his teen. I just hope we get a chance to play them together and experience some absolute masterpieces.
