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girl playing a game while wearing headphones and holding a game console controller

The best video games for kids: how to choose the right title for your little one

The first real computer game is considered to be Noughts and Crosses from 1952. It is nothing more than the well-known noughts and crosses puzzle.

Since then, computer games have become increasingly elaborate and realistic. The opportunity to take on the role of a favourite character from a film or television and to explore new and interesting worlds makes them particularly popular with children.

Thanks to games, the youngest can also realise their dreams of a career in sport, racing or aviation. All in the comfort of their own home.

two small boys playing video games and wearing headphones
an middle aged man and a kid smiling and playing video games together on the floor

Divided opinions

Opinions are divided on the subject of computer games and children.

Many parents complain that the virtual world consumes their children completely, often at the expense of education or social contacts. There is also a view that games encourage aggression and violence among young people. However, there is no shortage of opinions that games nevertheless have a positive effect on young people.

For example, they allow them to develop and practice skills that are useful in real life (problem solving, persistence in pursuing a goal, dealing with failure) and to socialise with people in different parts of the world.

There is a wide range of children’s games available on the market for PS4, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, computers and other devices. It is worth bearing in mind that not all titles are suitable for every child, and even special Xbox One games for children may require a moment’s reflection on your child’s needs and abilities. However, there are numerous interesting, child-appropriate puzzle and logic games on offer from manufacturers that are worth looking out for.

a mother and child playing video games together on the couch

How to choose a game for your child

When choosing a game, it is worth considering a number of factors:

  1. The age of the child and the classification of the game - in Poland and many other parts of Europe and Asia, games are assigned to PEGI categories, which indicate which age group a game is suitable for. The classification depends on the content of the game (e.g., discriminatory language, generation of fear, presence of violence, etc.).
  2. Interests - if we want our child to play the games we suggest for them, let’s take into account the young person’s interests. If he or she is into trains for example, it is worth selecting the game from this angle.
  3. Reviews - game portals often contain reviews and it is worth reading them before making a choice. They are a valuable source of additional information.

Once you have chosen a game, it is worth taking a moment to play it with your child. Not only will this allow you to see it in action, but it is also a great way to build a better relationship with your child.

Family games on PS4, Xbox, PlayStation, PC and Nintendo Switch

Here are some examples of interesting family games for different consoles and computers:

  • Minecraft - a hugely popular game in which players visit and explore an almost infinite world. Devices: almost all, such as PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, PC, Android, iOS.
  • Rocket League - a football game where the ball is hit by vehicles instead of people. Devices: Xbox One, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X, PC, Nintendo Switch.
  • Just Dance 2022 - the hugely popular dance game. Devices: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X | S.
  • Animal Crossing: New Horizons - a simulator of life on a desert island. Devices: Nintendo Switch.
  • The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild - a fast-paced action adventure game. Devices: Nintendo Switch and Wii U.
  • Forza Horizon 5 - a racing game. Devices: Xbox Series X, Xbox One, PC.
  • Among Us - a team-based puzzle-solving game. Devices: PC, phones and tablets.
  • Nintendo Mario Kart 8 Deluxe - a racing game in the world of Mario Bros. Devices: Nintendo Switch.

 

a girl playing videogames while wearing a VR headset

How to conveniently buy a game for your child

The most convenient way to buy a game is to use one of the online platforms - PlayStation Store, Google Play, Steam or Microsoft Store. All of them accept various payment methods, including PaysafeCard.

 

PaysafeCard voucher and a phone displaying the home page of the PaysafeCard website

How to use PaysafeCard

With PaysafeCard, parents don’t have to worry about their child spending more on games or in games than they should. The account is topped up with a specific value and there is no debit/overdraft available.

Now you can pay cash online. All you need to so is buy a top-up in a nearby store, and you then give your child a code to use online. You don’t have to provide a child’s or parent’s details or bank account, card or other sensitive information. This makes PaysafeCard not only a great solution for parents, but also a practical gift for a young gaming fan.