What video games are kids playing right now?
As of 2026, the biggest games with kids are Roblox, Minecraft, Fortnite and Brawl Stars, plus Nintendo staples like Mario Kart, Pokémon and Animal Crossing. What they share: free or cheap access, play with friends, and constant updates. Which one fits your child depends on age, platform and how much online contact you're comfortable with.
Popular picks by type
- Creative and building: Minecraft (ESRB E10+) and Roblox, which is a platform of millions of user-made games of very uneven quality.
- Competitive and social: Fortnite (rated T), Brawl Stars, Rocket League, Fall Guys.
- Nintendo family games: Mario Kart World (Nintendo Switch 2), Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Super Mario Bros. Wonder, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, Pokémon games, Kirby.
- Skill and rhythm: Geometry Dash and similar challenge games.
- Story and puzzle: LEGO games, Portal 2 and age-appropriate adventure games.
What parents should check
- Age rating. In the US, check the ESRB rating (E, E10+, T, M); in Europe, PEGI. Roblox experiences carry their own content labels.
- Online chat. Turn chat off or limit it to friends for younger kids, using the platform's parental controls (Xbox Family Settings, PlayStation Family, Nintendo Switch Parental Controls for Switch and Switch 2, Roblox Parental Controls).
- Spending. Many free games sell virtual currency and loot boxes. Set purchase limits or require approval.
- Screen time. Console and phone parental tools let you set daily limits.
FAQ
What games are good for 8-year-olds?
Minecraft, Mario Kart, Animal Crossing, Kirby and LEGO games are common choices. They're rated E and work well for local play with family.
Is Roblox okay for young kids?
It can be with parental controls enabled, chat restricted and spending limits set. Content quality varies, so check which experiences your child plays.
Is Fortnite or Roblox better for kids?
Fortnite is a shooter rated T, aimed at teens. Roblox has more variety and more kid-focused games, but needs more parental oversight.
Are video games good for kids?
In moderation, many games build problem-solving, creativity and teamwork. The key is age-appropriate content and balance with other activities.