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Whether it’s a family games night, entertainment on the go or a gift for children, games for children and families come in many forms. The choice ranges from board games and card games to cooperative games, Nintendo Switch games and PS5 games. However, it’s precisely this wide variety that makes the decision so difficult.
To ensure the game you buy doesn’t end up gathering dust in the cupboard, families should avoid a few common pitfalls before making a purchase.
An age rating such as “ages 8 and up” only tells you which age group the game is intended for. What’s also crucial is whether children need to be able to read, how complex the rules are, and how long a round lasts. A strategy game with lots of exceptions can be too challenging for younger children, even if the age rating is correct.
With video games, parents should also distinguish between USK and PEGI. USK is the German age rating system, while PEGI is used in many European countries. A game with a PEGI 18 rating, such as the AT edition of Grand Theft Auto VI for PS5, is not suitable for children.
Some board games only work with two players, while others need a larger group. If you’re looking for a game for a family evening with four people, you should check the stated number of players carefully. A game for 1 to 2 players won’t replace a family game for 2 to 6 participants.
It’s also worth taking a close look at Nintendo Switch games and Nintendo Switch 2 games: does the title support single-player, local multiplayer or online features? For shared use in the living room, these details are more important than general marketing claims.
A travel game shouldn’t just be small in its packaging. What matters is a sturdy closure, tidy storage, and game pieces that aren’t easily lost on the move. For card games, a solid box protects against bent cards. For board games, built-in storage makes transport much easier.
Check before you buy:
For younger children, children’s games from age 4 with simple dice or matching rules can be suitable. For families with older children, games from age 8, strategy games or longer family games are worth considering. Short card games with a playing time of around 15 minutes, on the other hand, are ideal for filling short gaps and for travelling.
Board games are often made from cardboard, paper, plastic or metal. Look out for:
Small parts should not be in the hands of children under three. For pre-school children, adult supervision can be helpful, especially when setting up and explaining the rules.
With video games, it’s important to distinguish whether a disc, a game card or just a download code is included. A code-in-a-box product contains no physical storage medium. Downloading, activation and updates may require an internet connection and a platform account.
For online or multiplayer games, parents should check the console settings, communication features and screen time limits. Using a Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2 or PlayStation 5 also requires the right platform and sufficient storage space.
Why this product fits the profile: This dice game is designed for 2 to 6 players aged 4 and up and requires no batteries. Its compact format makes it ideal for days out and travel.
The number of players and the age rating are clearly stated. The rules are based on dice and animal combinations rather than long texts.
2–6 players, ages 4+, no batteries needed and specifically designed for travel.
Why this product fits the profile: This family game combines easy-to-learn rules with route planning. It is designed for 2 to 5 players aged 8 and up, with games lasting around 45 minutes or longer.
The product details clearly state the age, number of players, materials and approximate playing time. This makes it easier to judge whether it fits into your family’s routine.
2–5 players, ages 8+, German edition and strategic route planning.
Why this product fits the profile: The Junior edition is designed for 2 to 4 players aged 6 and up. Simplified trading rules make it easier to get started with a strategy game for families.
The simplified rules and clearly defined number of players reduce the risk of buying an overly complex adult game for children.
2–4 players, ages 6+, simplified trading and child-friendly game structure.
Why this product fits the profile: This party game is designed for 8 to 28 players aged 10 and up. Secret roles, discussions and a game master make it ideal for larger groups.
The high number of players is clearly stated. Buyers can check in advance whether their group is large enough and whether at least 30 minutes of playing time is available.
8–28 players, ages 10+, secret roles and a game master principle.
We’ve put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the safety regulations in force in the EU.
Games with short rounds, few rules and large, clearly recognisable components are suitable. Simple dice, matching or dexterity games can be appropriate for this age group. Always follow the manufacturer’s specific recommendation, particularly because of possible small parts.
There’s no fixed number. A practical mix includes a short card game, a family game for several people, a travel game and a longer strategy game. This way, you can choose a game to suit the time available, the children’s ages and the size of the group.
Check the platform, the USK or PEGI rating, the number of players and any required online services. With download codes, you also need to consider an internet connection, an account and storage space. For families with children, parental controls and communication options should also be activated.