Best Video Games for 5-8 Year Olds – A Buyer’s Guide

Buying a video game for a young child but not sure if it’s age-appropriate? Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or just someone looking for a great gift, finding the right game can be tricky.

You want something that’s fun, easy to play, and free from inappropriate content, but with so many choices, it’s hard to know what’s right for younger kids.

This guide breaks down the best games for kids aged 5-8—all safe, engaging, and designed to help kids learn, explore, and have fun!

💡 "Want more details on game content? Websites like Common Sense Media offer parental reviews, breaking down themes, difficulty, and in-game purchases."

What Makes a Game Great for Young Kids?

Not every game with cute graphics is made for kids. (Looking at you, Among Us 👀). Here’s what to look for when picking a game for 5 to 8-year-olds:

✅ Simple controls – No complex button combos or tricky mechanics.
✅ No extreme violence – Nothing scary or intense; just wholesome fun.
✅ Encourages creativity or learning – Games that help kids solve problems, explore, or be imaginative.
✅ No forced online play – Avoid games that require constant internet access or multiplayer-only gameplay.

🕹️ The Best Video Games for Kids Aged 5-8

Here’s a quick look at the best games across Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox, and Mobile.

📌 Top 9 Video Games for 5-8 Year Olds

Offline vs. Online Gaming – What Adults Should Know

Not all kids' games are as straightforward as they seem—some require an internet connection, while others sneak in in-game purchases that could leave you with a surprise bill. Here's what you should know:

🛑 Offline Play: Many of the games listed above can be played without an internet connection.
🛑 In-Game Purchases: Some mobile games (like Toca Boca) offer extra content but don’t require purchases to enjoy the game.
🛑 Parental Controls: Consoles let you set screen time limits, block purchases, and disable online play—use them!

Making the Right Choice

Picking a video game for a young kid shouldn’t feel like defusing a bomb—but with ratings, in-game purchases, and online play, it can feel that way. Here’s the golden rule:

✔ The simpler, the better—If they need a tutorial longer than Bluey’s theme song, it’s probably too complex.
✔ Parental controls are your best mate—Turn off purchases, set playtime limits, and keep gaming stress-free.
✔ Ratings exist for a reason—Think of M-rated as "Maybe not" and MA15+ as "Move Along" if the kid’s under 15.

Still confused about ratings? Check out our Video Game Ratings Guide for Australia & NZ for a breakdown of what G, PG, M, and R18+ really mean.