13 Best Xbox Games for Kids to Enjoy

Playing video games is a fun activity that kids of all ages can enjoy. Xbox in particular has a great selection of games that are perfect for younger audiences. These games allow kids to go on exciting adventures, solve puzzles, or just have silly fun with beloved characters.

Xbox games for kids span a variety of genres and themes to appeal to different interests. Some great options include platformers, adventure games, sports games, party games and more. Many feature kid-friendly characters from popular franchises like Lego, Angry Birds, Paw Patrol, and Sonic the Hedgehog.

When choosing Xbox games for your kids, it‘s important to consider their age and maturity level. Look at the game‘s ESRB rating and descriptions to ensure the content is appropriate. Games rated E or E10+ are generally suitable for young kids, while T-rated games may be better for pre-teens.

The best kids games for Xbox engage young minds while keeping things lighthearted. They emphasize imagination, problem-solving, and cooperation over violence. Playing alongside your kids is also a great way to bond and make sure they have a positive gaming experience.

Here are 13 of the top Xbox One games for kids and families to check out:

1. Minecraft

ESRB Rating: E10+

Genre: Sandbox/Survival

Minecraft is one of the most popular video games for kids. In this pixelated sandbox world, players can build creations out of textured cubes in creative mode or go on quests and survive dangers in survival mode.

Kids will get lost for hours exploring the endless possibilities of construction and customization in Minecraft. They can build towns, sculptures, houses, and more. Minecraft promotes creativity and problem-solving in an immersive environment.

The multiplayer version allows kids to play together online, but a parent should supervise for safety. Overall, Minecraft opens up a whole new universe of fun without objectionable content. Just beware of zombies that come out at night!

Developer: Mojang Studios

Release Date: May 9, 2012

2. Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare 2

ESRB Rating: E10+

Genre: Shooter

The Plants vs. Zombies series brings the popular tower defense game to life in this entertaining third-person shooter. Kids can team up with others online or play solo as loveable plants defending their garden against an invasion of zombies.

Players can choose from a variety of plant and zombie characters with unique abilities, like Peashooter, Sunflower, Scientist Zombie, and more. The game features over a dozen multiplayer modes with silly scenarios perfect for younger audiences.

With its cartoony graphics and humorous aspects, Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare 2 is a less intense multiplayer shooter appropriate for kids 10 and up. Teamwork and strategy are emphasized over violence.

Developer: PopCap Games

Release Date: February 23, 2016

3. Slime Rancher

ESRB Rating: E

Genre: Simulation, Adventure

In the adorable world of Slime Rancher, players take the role of Beatrix LeBeau, a rancher on a mission to wrangle magical slimes on the Far, Far Range. Kids will delight in exploring the colorful, rolling hills while collecting new slimes for their ranch.

This first-person life simulation game has no combat or danger, just plenty of rainbow slimes to feed, combine, and profit from. The gameplay involves managing resources like food, water, and energy to keep the slimes happy. Kids can get creative in building the ranch of their dreams.

With its cheerful setting, relaxed gameplay, and cute slimes, Slime Rancher is a top pick for a non-violent, family-friendly adventure.

Developer: Monomi Park

Release Date: August 1, 2017

4. Rocket League

ESRB Rating: E

Genre: Sports, Racing

Does your kid dream of being a soccer player in a high-speed supersonic car? Rocket League brings that vision to life in one of the most popular multiplayer games out there. Players use turbo-charged vehicles to hit a giant ball into their opponent‘s net in a 3v3 match-up.

With its easy pick-up-and-play mechanics, Rocket League is fun for kids of all ages to learn. The matches are 5 minutes long so it‘s perfect for quick gaming sessions. Kids will enjoy customizing their battle-car and climbing the ranked ladder. The game encourages teamwork and light competition.

Developer: Psyonix

Release Date: July 7, 2015

5. Lego Games

ESRB Rating: E-E10+

Genre: Action-Adventure

All the Lego video game series are perfect for kids who love to see their favorite characters, stories, and worlds transformed into Lego bricks. These action-adventure games take kids through levels based on popular franchises like Star Wars, Harry Potter, Marvel and more.

Gameplay involves solving puzzles, collecting Lego studs, and defeating enemies. Kids can play as dozens of characters with special abilities to unlock secrets. The Lego games are designed with co-op in mind. Parents can join kids for fun two-player action.

With their kid-friendly humor, vibrant worlds and replayability, Lego games have universal appeal. Some top picks are Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga, Lego Harry Potter Collection, and Lego Marvel Super Heroes 2.

Developer: Traveller‘s Tales

Release Date: Varies

6. Super Lucky‘s Tale

ESRB Rating: E

Genre: Platformer

In Super Lucky‘s Tale, players take on the role of Lucky, an adorable fox on a quest to protect his magical book from the evil sorcerer Jinx. Kids will love exploring the bright, colorful worlds as Lucky runs, jumps, climbs and spins through hazards and obstacles.

The 3D platforming gameplay is inspired by classic games like Spyro and Banjo-Kazooie. Younger kids in particular will enjoy the simple controls and forgiving difficulty level that keeps things fun and low-pressure.

With its playful characters, upbeat soundtrack and variety of worlds to discover, Super Lucky‘s Tale captures platforming magic in a package perfect for all ages.

Developer: Playful Corp

Release Date: November 7, 2017

7. Unravel Two

ESRB Rating: E

Genre: Puzzle-Platformer

In Unravel Two, kids join a pair of adorable Yarnys – little creatures made of red yarn – on an epic adventure. Players must work together to solve environmental puzzles and assist each other through obstacles.

Kids will love the game‘s gorgeous natural environments and the cooperative gameplay that encourages teamwork. Since there are no enemies, Unravel Two provides a more relaxing, positive experience for young gamers.

With a beautiful soundtrack and charming story told without words, Unravel Two is a lovely choice for shared family gaming time.

Developer: Coldwood Interactive

Release Date: June 9, 2018

8. Plants vs. Zombies: Battle for Neighborville

ESRB Rating: E10+

Genre: Shooter

The wacky battle between plants and zombies continues in this multiplayer shooter. Kids can play with up to 23 other people online choosing from 20 fully customizable character classes.

Battle for Neighborville features silly Gnome Bomb, Turf Takeover and other multiplayer modes perfect for younger players. Kids will stay engaged with the funny personalities of the plants and zombies as well as unlocking new customizations through gameplay.

As a cartoonish shooter focused on humorous fun over violence, Plants vs. Zombies: Battle for Neighborville is a solid multiplayer option for families and kids aged 10+.

Developer: PopCap Games

Release Date: October 18, 2019

9. Stardew Valley

ESRB Rating: E

Genre: Simulation, Role-playing

In the charming retro-style world of Stardew Valley, kids can let their creativity run wild as they build up a new farm. They inherit an overgrown plot of land and must tend to crops, raise animals, mine resources, fish and more.

Kids will love the freedom of customizing their farm however they wish. They can also build relationships with quirky townspeople or even get married if they choose. With no combat, Stardew Valley is a relaxing experience for kids who want to explore a cute 16-bit world.

Developer: ConcernedApe

Release Date: December 14, 2016

10. Spyro Reignited Trilogy

ESRB Rating: E10+

Genre: Platformer

The iconic purple dragon Spyro has been remastered in Spyro Reignited Trilogy. This collection includes the first three classic Spyro games with enhanced graphics and music.

Kids join Spyro as he glides, charges and breathes fire through dragon realms on a quest to defeat the evil Gnasty Gnorc. The trilogy offers plenty of nostalgia along with new fun. With its kid-friendly platforming action, Spyro Reignited Trilogy is a great introduction to the series for today‘s young gamers.

Developer: Toys for Bob

Release Date: November 13, 2018

11. Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle

ESRB Rating: E10+

Genre: Strategy, Adventure

This unlikely mashup brings Mario, his friends, and Ubisoft‘s Rabbids together in a humorous strategy adventure. Kids join the crew as they explore four unique worlds battling evil Rabbids using turn-based combat tactics.

With its cute art style and goofy sense of humor, Mario + Rabbids is a family-friendly introduction to strategy gaming. Kids will stay engaged through the entertaining story and accessible but deep gameplay. And parents can enjoy the Mario nostalgia too.

Developer: Ubisoft

Release Date: August 29, 2017

12. Yooka-Laylee

ESRB Rating: E10+

Genre: Platformer

For a colorful, kid-friendly platforming adventure, check out chameleon and bat duo Yooka and Laylee. Their shiny collectathon game Yooka-Laylee is filled with exploration, wacky characters and addicting gameplay.

Kids join the buddies as they set out to defeat the evil corporate tycoon Capital B and rescue the magical Pagies he stole from their home. With its beautiful worlds, fun abilities, silly humor and unlockables galore, Yooka-Laylee is built for fans of imaginative 3D platformers.

Developer: Playtonic Games

Release Date: April 11, 2017

13. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

ESRB Rating: E10+

Genre: Fighting

This massive crossover fighting game brings together over 80 Nintendo characters to duke it out in iconic locales. Kids will love playing as Mario, Donkey Kong, Link from Zelda, Pikachu and other favorites.

Up to 8 players can join in on the frantic, silly brawling fun together. With endless match options like timed, stock or stamina battles, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate offers plenty of replayability. Kids can even make their own custom stages and fighters.

Although chaotic, the cartoon violence stays kid-friendly. And no one ever dies – they just blast off the stage! For Nintendo fans or kids who want non-stop multiplayer action, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate delivers big time.

Developer: Bandai Namco Studios / Sora Ltd.

Release Date: December 7, 2018

What to Consider When Choosing Xbox Games for Kids

When selecting Xbox One games for your children, keep the following factors in mind:

• Age Ratings: Carefully check a game‘s ESRB rating and content descriptions. E and E10+ are suitable for young kids while T games may have mild violence more appropriate for teens.

• Interests: Find games that align with your child‘s interests – whether that‘s building, sports, adventures or silly fun with colorful characters.

• Difficulty: Look for age-appropriate challenge levels so kids don‘t get frustrated but stay engaged. Many kids games have adjustable difficulty.

• Play Together: Cooperative and multiplayer games allow you to play alongside your kids for quality bonding time and provide interaction.

• Time Limits: Monitor playtime and set reasonable limits to keep gaming from overtaking other activities. Xbox allows parental controls for restrictions.

• Safety: For any games with online features, be sure to understand the safety measures to protect kids from inappropriate behavior. Disable chat functions if needed.

Choosing the right games for your kids ensures they have entertaining experiences that align with your family‘s values. Xbox offers a wide selection of fun titles packed with kid-friendly action perfect for little gamers.