What Makes a Good Game for Kids? A Comprehensive Guide
Games are not only a source of entertainment but also a powerful tool for learning and developing various skills among children. Whether it’s a video game or a board game, the key to engaging and beneficial play lies in its design, balance, and overall appeal. This guide explores what makes a good game for kids and highlights recommendations based on tested play experiences.
Video Games for Kids: Skills and Fun
For videogames, a game that’s easy to learn helps kids grasp fundamental logical skills and makes sure it remains enjoyable. Let’s dive into some examples of good games for kids and why they stand out:
Minecraft
Minecraft is an excellent example of an easy-to-learn game that can teach kids valuable skills. It’s accessible to beginners and allows for both survival and creative modes, providing diverse gameplay experiences. The game teaches the importance of resource management, building structures, and crafting items. Despite any concerns about potential violence, many families have found it to be a safe and fun pastime. For example, my Mormon cousins started playing Minecraft in 2011, and the youngest was only nine at the time, yet their parents were content.
Mario Mario Maker
Mario Maker is another fantastic option, offering creative freedom and reflexes training. Kids can design and play nearly any level they can imagine, enhancing their problem-solving skills and hand-eye coordination. Whether they’re playing Mario Kart or creating their own levels with Mario Maker, the game provides ample opportunities for fun and learning.
Other Good Games for Kids
There are a multitude of other excellent games for kids, including Stardew Valley, Animal Crossing, Pokemon, and Yu-Gi-Oh. These games cater to different interests and developmental stages, offering a balanced mix of entertainment and educational value.
Board Games and Card Games for Kids: Quick Learning and Engagement
For board games and card games, the key elements are quick learning, fun, and not overly complicated. Some games like Monopoly can be a good start, but they may not cater well to older children. Games like Magic the Gathering can be challenging to learn but offer a significant boost to logical skills, reading, and math while keeping kids engaged and entertained.
Designing Engaging Games
When creating a game for children, several factors contribute to its success:
Randomness vs. Decision-Making
A balanced mix of random and decision-based elements is essential. Card games like Candy Land rely heavily on random draws, whereas strategy games like Chess are entirely decision-based. Games with more random chance have higher replay value, while decision-based games require strategic thinking and planning.
Good Artwork
Attention to detail in artwork significantly impacts a game’s appeal. Compare The Game of Life with its bright, colorful board to Sorry, which has a simpler design. In video games, vibrant graphics and an appealing visual aesthetic will draw players in and keep them engaged.
Fun Game Pieces
The game pieces used play a crucial role in the overall enjoyment. Monopoly’s tokens can often spark arguments, while the game pieces in Sorry, such as small metal sculptures, are much less contentious. In Mario 64, the character Mario with his ability to jump and interact becomes a fun and engaging game piece.
Surprises and Exploration
Incorporating elements of surprise and exploration keeps the gameplay exciting. For example, in Monopoly, chance cards can introduce unforeseen events, enhancing the unpredictability and excitement. Board games like Animal Crossing New Horizons use exploration elements, gradually revealing new areas and features that players can unlock, adding depth to the gameplay.
Interactive Situations
Interactive games are the most engaging, especially those that involve player interaction. In Sorry, the joy of bumping opponents back to the start adds a competitive element. In Scrabble, players build on each other’s words, culminating in a satisfying crossword puzzle.
The Importance of Spinners
Even simple elements like a spinner can significantly enhance the game-playing experience. Watching a spinner as it spins is hypnotic and can be a source of enjoyment, adding to the overall engagement.
By considering these key elements, both game developers and parents can ensure that the games they choose or create are not only fun but also beneficial for kids, fostering development in logical thinking, problem-solving, and social skills.