For most, we only included them on one system even though, if available, it’s likely equally as good on another and in some cases below is included on multiple platforms.įinally, the following links are affiliate links. Though this isn’t absolute, the list is created for children ages 8 and olderĪnd finally, for some games available on multiple platforms (like Minecraft). Panda, Toca Life: School, Marco Polo, etc.–meaning these are actual video games with (mostly) traditional gameplay mechanics. None of the games are ‘learning games’ or related apps like Sesame Street, Dr. We also tried to limit each game series (like Pokemon) to one game to ensure a collection of the best non-violent video games that would be usable by a wide variety of players and students. We did include a few obvious ones like FIFA, MLB: The Show, and NBA 2K, though each of those games has bits and pieces you may or may not find issues with as a parent or teacher depending on your context and tolerance. We also tried to focus on non-sports video games because–well, otherwise the list would likely be dominated by sports games. We started out with the Nintendo Switch because as of 2022, it’s likely the best major platform for non-violent video games. Obviously, check out developer websites or YouTube for gameplay videos to make sure you know what you’re getting if you intend on purchasing any of these games. Or almost as an afterthought if it exists at all versus a core game mechanic. This is why none of the games from the excellent Legend of Zelda series make an appearance on the list. It’s about tone and intent and how that ‘violence’ is framed: playfully and with a minimalist aesthetic, for example. Note: The standard here is that you don’t consider games like Super Mario or Minecraft ‘violent’ even though there are technically what could be considered violent behaviors in them. Due to the nature of both video games and what’s popular with kids, this list will need to be updated intermittently, which makes including screenshots and videos and descriptions and animated images more work than makes sense for most teachers. Now, if they actually enjoy the game or not–in an era dominated by Fortnite and wildly action-packed, social, and ‘always-on’ gaming environments–depends on their mindset and what they expect from a game.
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