15 Must-Try Family Video Games for an Epic Game Night

As a mom to an energetic 2-year-old son, finding activities that bring our whole family together is something I treasure. While my little one is still mastering the art of holding a controller, I’ve been collecting fantastic family-friendly video games for when he’s ready to join the fun. Why? Because some of my fondest childhood memories revolve around family game nights, and as our world has evolved, so too has family gaming.

I still remember the night my husband and I, exhausted from the early months of parenthood, pulled out the Nintendo Switch after our son finally fell asleep. What started as a quick gaming session turned into hours of laughter, friendly competition, and a much-needed reminder that we were more than just tired parents, we were still us, still playful, still connected. That night sparked our mission to curate the ultimate family video game collection for years of game nights to come.

Whether you’re a family of seasoned gamers or newcomers looking to start a new tradition, this list of 15 must-try family video games spans different consoles, skill levels, and interests. From cooperative adventures to friendly competitions, these games are designed to bring everyone together, create lasting memories, and maybe even sneak in some learning along the way.

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Why Family Video Games Make Great Activities

Before diving into the recommendations, let’s address why video games deserve a spot in your family activity rotation:

Building Connections Through Play

Unlike passive entertainment like movies, video games create active engagement between family members. During my time in the Air Force, I witnessed how gaming built bonds between service members from diverse backgrounds. The same dynamic works wonderfully for families; gaming creates:

• Shared experiences and inside jokes
• Opportunities to practice teamwork and communication
• Moments of teaching and learning between generations
• Natural conversation starters, especially with older kids and teens

Developmental Benefits for Children

Modern family games offer surprising benefits beyond just fun:

• Problem-solving skills: Games present challenges that require creative thinking
• Persistence and resilience: Learning to try again after setbacks
• Reading practice: Many family games incorporate text for younger readers
• Executive function development: Following rules, taking turns, and planning ahead

Making Memories That Last

In our digital age, embracing technology rather than fighting against it can create meaningful family traditions. Some of our most memorable family moments have come from:

• Tournament nights with extended family
• “Parents vs. Kids” challenges (though we’re a few years away from that in our house!)
• Gaming sessions during family vacations on rainy days
• Recording and watching highlight reels of our most hilarious gaming moments

How to Choose Family-Friendly Video Games

Not all video games are created equal when it comes to family play. Here’s what to consider when building your collection:

Age-Appropriate Content

Always check game ratings through the ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board):

• E (Everyone): Suitable for ages 6 and up
• E10+ (Everyone 10+): Appropriate for ages 10 and up
• T (Teen): Designed for ages 13 and up

Beyond ratings, consider your family’s specific sensitivities around content involving conflict, competition, or scary elements.

Accessibility Features

The best family games accommodate different skill levels:

• Adjustable difficulty settings
• Assist modes for younger or less experienced players
• Simple control schemes that don’t require mastering complex button combinations
• Options for reading assistance or voice narration

Multiplayer Capabilities

Check for family video games that offer:

• Local multiplayer for same-room play (ideal for family game night)
• Adjustable player counts to include everyone
• Different roles for players of varying abilities

15 Must-Try Family Video Games

Without further delay, here are my top recommendations for family game night, organized by play style:

Cooperative Adventures: Work Together to Win

1. Minecraft (All Major Platforms)

Why it’s great for families: Minecraft’s creative mode offers a stress-free environment where family members can build together, solve problems, and create wonderful memories. My husband spent hours creating a virtual replica of our home, complete with our son’s nursery—something we plan to show him when he’s old enough to appreciate it.

Best for: Families with kids 7+ (though younger children can enjoy with assistance) Player count: 1-8 players locally or online

Minecraft for Nintendo Switch has become our go-to platform because of its portability for family trips.

2. Unravel Two (PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, PC)

Why it’s great for families: This beautiful puzzle platformer features two yarn characters physically connected to each other, requiring genuine cooperation. The puzzles encourage communication and teamwork, while the gorgeous visuals and soundtrack create a magical atmosphere.

Best for: Families with kids 8+ (puzzles require some thinking) Player count: 1-2 players (perfect for parent-child teams)

We’ve found Unravel Two to be an excellent way to practice patience and communication skills that benefit our family beyond gaming.

3. Luigi’s Mansion 3 (Nintendo Switch)

Why it’s great for families: This ghost-hunting adventure strikes the perfect balance between spooky and silly. One player controls Luigi while another can play as Gooigi, his gooey clone. The game features creative puzzles and lighthearted “scares” that even more sensitive kids can handle.

Best for: Families with kids 6+ (mildly spooky but more funny than scary) Player count: 1-2 players for story mode, up to 8 for minigames

During a particularly challenging week of toddler sleep regression, Luigi’s Mansion 3 provided much-needed laughs for the adults in our household.

Friendly Competition: Test Your Skills With Family Video Games

4. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (Nintendo Switch)

Why it’s great for families: The definitive family racing game includes features specifically designed to help younger or less experienced players, like auto-acceleration and steering assist. The vibrant tracks and characters appeal to all ages.

Best for: All ages (even my 2-year-old enjoys “driving” with assist features) Player count: Up to 4 players locally, 12 online

Our family Mario Kart tournaments have become legendary, complete with homemade trophies for the champions.

5. Just Dance (Multiple Platforms)

Why it’s great for families: Get moving with this dance game that scores players based on how well they follow on-screen choreography. The varied song selection spans decades, ensuring everyone from grandparents to kids will find music they recognize.

Best for: All ages Player count: Technically up to 6, but you can rotate with larger groups

We introduced Just Dance at a family reunion and watched in delight as three generations danced together—from my mother-in-law to my toddler bouncing along in his own rhythm.

6. Overcooked 2 (All Major Platforms)

Why it’s great for families: This chaotic cooking game requires communication, coordination, and quick thinking as players prepare and serve food in increasingly bizarre kitchens. Failure is hilarious rather than frustrating.

Best for: Families with kids 8+ (younger kids might find it overwhelming) Player count: 1-4 players

Overcooked 2 taught us more about effective family communication than any structured activity ever could—plus, it encouraged our actual cooking adventures together.

Building and Creativity: Let Imagination Soar With Family Video Games

7. Super Mario Maker 2 (Nintendo Switch)

Why it’s great for families: Create, play, and share your own Super Mario levels. This game reverses the typical parent-child dynamic, as kids often excel at the creative aspects while parents enjoy testing their creations.

Best for: Families with kids 6+ Player count: Up to 4 players for created courses

We’ve started a family level design notebook where we sketch Mario level ideas together, creating a tangible keepsake of our gaming creativity.

8. LEGO Worlds (Multiple Platforms)

Why it’s great for families: Think digital LEGO with unlimited bricks. This open-world building game lets players construct anything they can imagine, then explore and interact with their creations.

Best for: Families with kids 7+ Player count: 1-2 players

As a family that’s constantly battling physical LEGO pieces scattered across our floors, LEGO Worlds gives us the creative joy without the painful middle-of-the-night foot injuries!

9. Animal Crossing: New Horizons (Nintendo Switch)

Why it’s great for families: This relaxing life simulator allows players to build a community on a deserted island, with no pressure or fail states. The game follows real-world time, making it perfect for daily family check-ins with your virtual world.

Best for: All ages Player count: Up to 8 players can share an island

During the height of my postpartum depression, Animal Crossing provided a peaceful escape where my husband and I could still “go on dates” to each other’s islands when getting an actual babysitter wasn’t possible.

Puzzle Solving: Exercise Those Brain Cells

10. Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker (Nintendo Switch, 3DS)

Why it’s great for families: Each level presents a compact 3D puzzle box that players can rotate to find treasures and solve mysteries. The gentle difficulty curve makes it accessible while still offering a satisfying challenge.

Best for: Families with kids 5+ Player count: 1-2 players

This brain-teasing adventure taught us the value of perspective, both in gaming and in life. Sometimes, viewing a problem from a different angle is all you need!

11. Snipperclips (Nintendo Switch)

Why it’s great for families: Players control paper characters who can cut each other into different shapes to solve clever puzzles. The solutions often require creative thinking and clear communication.

Best for: Families with kids 6+ Player count: 1-4 players

Our Snipperclips sessions always end with fits of laughter as our attempts to coordinate often result in hilariously catastrophic paper cutting mishaps.

12. Puyo Puyo Tetris 2 (Multiple Platforms)

Why it’s great for families: First, this mash-up combines two classic puzzle games (Tetris and Puyo Puyo) with numerous game modes that can be adjusted for different skill levels. The bright colors and cute characters appeal to younger players.

Best for: Families with kids 6+ Player count: 1-4 players locally

We keep this puzzle hybrid in our “dinner’s running late” entertainment arsenal—perfect for quick rounds while waiting for food to cook.

Learning Disguised as Fun- Family Video Game Night

13. Big Brain Academy: Brain vs. Brain (Nintendo Switch)

Why it’s great for families: First and foremost, this collection of mental mini-games tests memory, analysis, identification, and computation skills. Additionally, the handicap system allows family members of different ages and abilities to compete on equal footing.

Best for: Families with kids 6+ Player count: 1-4 players

As someone with a psychology background, I appreciate how Big Brain Academy combines genuine cognitive challenges with accessible, family-friendly gameplay. Moreover, the varied activities ensure that everyone can find something they excel at, thus building confidence while simultaneously developing different cognitive skills.

14. Pikmin 4 (Nintendo Switch)

Why it’s great for families: This strategy adventure game teaches resource management, planning, and patience as players command small plant-like creatures to overcome obstacles. The gentle pace allows for thoughtful decision-making.

Best for: Families with kids 7+ Player count: 1-2 players

Pikmin’s cooperative mode creates natural opportunities for parents to guide children through strategic thinking without it feeling like a lesson.

15. Nintendo Switch Sports (Nintendo Switch)

Why it’s great for families: This collection of sports mini-games gets everyone moving with intuitive motion controls. From bowling to tennis to soccer, these simplified sports are easy to learn but offer depth for more competitive family members.

Best for: All ages Player count: Varies by sport, generally 1-4 players locally

We’ve incorporated Switch Sports into our family exercise routine, making physical activity a fun bonding experience rather than a chore.

Setting Up for Family Video Game Night Success

Having the right games is just the start. Here’s how to create an optimal family gaming environment:

Creating a Comfortable Gaming Space

• Seating arrangements: Ensure everyone can see the screen comfortably
• Proper lighting: Reduce glare and eye strain with indirect lighting
• Accessible controllers: Keep controllers charged and within easy reach
• Snack station: Prepare finger foods that won’t damage electronics

We’ve designated a section of our living room as the “gaming zone” with a comfortable gaming floor chair that’s become everyone’s favorite spot.

Establishing Family Video Game Guidelines

To keep gaming positive and balanced, consider establishing some family rules:

• Time limits: Set clear expectations about gaming duration
• Turn-taking systems: Use timers for equal play opportunities
• Sportsmanship expectations: Establish guidelines for winning and losing gracefully
• Content boundaries: Clarify which games are appropriate for which family members

Making Family Video Game Night a Regular Tradition

Consistency helps establish meaningful family traditions:

• Scheduled game nights: Set a regular time for family gaming
• Tournament brackets: Create ongoing competitions with simple prizes
• Theme nights: Match snacks or activities to the game you’re playing
• Documentation: Take screenshots or photos of memorable gaming moments for family albums

Conclusion: Press Start on New Family Memories

Video games have evolved far beyond the solitary activity many parents remember from their youth. However, today’s family-friendly games offer rich opportunities for connection, learning, and memory-making across generations. In fact, modern gaming experiences specifically encourage social interaction while simultaneously developing problem-solving skills. Moreover, these interactive experiences create shared memories that consequently strengthen family bonds. Additionally, research shows that playing games together not only entertains but also promotes communication skills. Therefore, making time for family game nights can ultimately transform screen time into quality time that everyone looks forward to.

As a mom navigating the challenges of modern parenting, I’ve found our family gaming sessions provide something increasingly rare: undistracted, joyful time together where everyone is fully present. Whether we’re racing against each other in Mario Kart, collaboratively solving puzzles in Luigi’s Mansion, or building virtual worlds in Minecraft, these shared digital adventures strengthen our family bonds in very real ways.

The games on this list offer entry points for families of all types, regardless of previous gaming experience or the ages of your children. The key is finding the right match for your family’s interests and creating an environment where the focus remains on fun and connection.

So charge those controllers, gather your family, and press start on a new tradition. Your epic family game night awaits!

What about you? First of all, has your family discovered any amazing games that bring everyone together? Additionally, do you have any special traditions that make family gaming nights extra memorable? Therefore, I’d love to hear your experiences in the comments below! Furthermore, sharing your recommendations could help other families find their next favorite game!