Best Video Games for a 12-Year-Old: A Guide for Parents
Choosing the right video game for your child can be a daunting task, especially as a first-time purchase. If you're thinking of getting your 12-year-old son his very first video game, there are several options on the market that are both fun and suitable for their age. Here, we'll explore a variety of games that offer a great experience for you to play with him, as well as standalone options he can enjoy alone, considering the current pandemic situation.
Minecraft: A Perfect Starter Game
Minecraft is always a great start. It's a classic for a reason—it can run on virtually any hardware and is incredibly engaging. Moreover, an exciting new update is reportedly coming soon, making it a great time to purchase while the game is still fresh.
Minecraft teaches survival skills and promotes creativity. The game is rated for ages 12 and up, but younger players can still enjoy it. It also has a creative mode where your child can create just about anything, fostering their imagination and problem-solving abilities. Here's an important detail to consider: the game avoids violence, with the only exceptions being skeletons and zombies, which, although visible, do not look too frightening.
In the final scene, the game gently encourages players to step outside and enjoy real-world activities, making it a wholesome addition to any child's gaming collection.
Stardew Valley: Multiplayer and More
Stardew Valley is another excellent choice. It's a farming simulation that also features multiplayer, allowing you to play together. However, some parents might raise an eyebrow at certain content, as the game includes mentions of alcohol (beer and wine) and references to sexual affairs among its characters. Even so, the game is largely considered child-friendly. The game's depiction of characters' struggles with these issues might be too mature for your child, but the overall content is still appropriate for most 12-year-olds.
The game's date mechanics are also worth noting. While your avatar can date and marry either gender, the game does not explicitly promote such themes; instead, it offers a simple, non-romantic choice of relationships. If you wish to play co-op, both of you must share the same system, as co-op mode is not available on separate devices like an Xbox and a PC.
Rayman Legends: A Fun Multiplayer Option
Rayman Legends or Rayman Origins offer a dynamic and engaging multiplayer experience that is perfect for you to join your son in gaming. Both are platformer games designed to be played by up to four players. The game mechanics are simple yet engaging, as if a character dies, the other players can revived them without penalty. This feature can significantly enhance the overall gaming experience, especially for beginners in gaming controls.
The levels in these games are colorful, with good music and cleverly designed challenges. Not only is it a fun game to play, but it also helps in developing quick reflexes and strategy skills.
Consider Your Child's Interests
Selecting a game that aligns with your child's interests is crucial. Before making a purchase, talk to them about what kind of game they enjoy. This ensures that the game you choose is something they will enjoy playing repeatedly, rather than just once. Remember, games can be quite expensive, and you wouldn’t want to make a purchase that ends up in unused gameplay because of mismatched interests.
Ultimately, the right game can provide a great bonding experience for you and your child. Whether it's the classic world of Minecraft, the engaging Stardew Valley, or the competitive Rayman Legends, there is a perfect choice out there. Happy gaming!