How to choose the right video games for children and teenagers

Not all games are intended for minors, and many include violent content, strong language, or complex mechanics that may not be appropriate for certain ages.

Therefore, it is essential for mothers, fathers, and caregivers to know how to identify which games are appropriate, what age ratings exist, and how to promote responsible use of digital entertainment. This article offers a practical guide to making informed decisions and fostering a healthy relationship with video games.

The first step in choosing a suitable video game is to check its age rating . The most commonly used ones are:

• ESRB (United States and Latin America) :
  • E (Everyone) – Suitable for everyone
  • E10+ – From 10 years old
  • T (Teen) – Since age 13
  • M (Mature) – For ages 17 and up only
• PEGI (Europe) :
  • 3, 7, 12, 16 and 18 are the age ranges
  • It also includes icons indicating violence, offensive language, fear, gambling, etc.

These ratings are based on the game's content , not difficulty. Therefore, an "E" game may be complex, and a "T" game may have mild content but not be ideal for young children.

Checking the box, the digital store, or the official website will allow you to quickly see the recommended age and the reasons behind that rating.

Not all children or adolescents are the same, so it is also important to consider:

• Game theme : Is it adventure, simulation, sports, fantasy, or combat?
• Play style : Cooperative, competitive, exploration or narrative?
• Difficulty Level : Some games can be frustrating if they are not designed for the player's age or experience.
• Average length : There are titles that last for hours, while others can extend for months if they have additional content.

Ideally, choose games that encourage creativity, problem-solving, or teamwork , without exposing minors to inappropriate or addictive content.

Here is a general list of popular and highly rated video games by approximate age:

For children under 10 years old:

• Super Mario Odyssey (Nintendo Switch)
• Minecraft in creative mode
• Animal Crossing: New Horizons
• Lego Marvel Super Heroes

For preteens (10 to 13 years):

• Plants vs Zombies: Battle for Neighborville
• Sonic Frontiers
• Stardew Valley
• Pokémon Scarlet / Violet

For teenagers (13 to 17 years old):

• The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
• Rocket League
• Fortnite (with chat monitoring and control)
• Among Us

It is advisable to play alongside them or at least observe how they interact with the game, to assess whether they feel comfortable, are having fun, and are not exposed to the risk of online harassment or deceptive microtransactions .

Video games can be powerful tools for having fun, learning, and sharing time with the family. However, they also require support. Here are some helpful practices:

• Use parental controls on consoles, mobile devices, or PCs to limit content, play time, and in-game purchases.
• Establish balanced play schedules to avoid sedentary lifestyles or addiction.
• Talk to your children about what they play, what they watch, and who they interact with online.
• Sharing the game : Playing together can be an enriching experience for both parties and allows you to better understand each other's tastes.

Promoting a culture of open dialogue , not censorship, helps minors develop their own judgment about what they consume and feel supported, not monitored.

Choosing appropriate video games for children and teens isn't just about looking at the suggested age on the box. It's about understanding the content, mechanics, and emotional or social impact each game can have. With information, active supervision, and honest communication, video games can become an educational, social, and creative tool for the new generation.

It's not about prohibiting, but about guiding. And as adults, we have a responsibility to make the digital world a safe and positive space for young people, too.