It’s true what they say: the family that plays together stays together! In this modern technological world, video games can absolutely be a staple for your family game night. The key to playing video games as a family is finding games that are not only designed with multi-player usage in mind, but appropriate and engaging for family members of all ages. Here are five amazing games to try out:
Plants VS Zombies:
(PC, Mac, Android, iPad, iPhone/iPhone Touch, Kindle Fire, Windows Phone 7, Nintendo DS, Nintendo DSi, PlayStation Network, Xbox 360, Xbox LIVE)
Originally released in 2009, this stylish PopCap game has seen many tweaks and updates in its almost 4 years of existence. One or two players can partake in this zombie and horticulture inspired line defense game. You can play through the game on adventure mode, or check out the many exciting mini-games. Many of the available gaming platforms offer both ‘VS’ and ‘Co-Op’ style multi-player. Whether you are taking a turn playing or sitting this round out, Plants VS Zombies is a bright and engaging arcade style video game that is both fun and rewarding for family members of any age!
*NEW* Super Mario Bros.:
(Exclusive to the Wii)
Relive the classic Mario experience of the 80’s and 90’s with this 2009 Nintendo offering. Up to four players can engage in the classic quest to rescue the lovely Princess Peach from the clutches of the infamous and irreplaceable Bowser. The beauty of this game is the ability to share an experience and gaming journey that transcends decades and generations. As always, anything ‘Mario’ can capture the imaginations of any age group.
Portal 2:
(Microsoft Windows, Mac OS X, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360)
The main thing that puts this 2011 sequel on this list as opposed to the 2007 original, is the multi-player capabilities that were not in the original offering of this series in the making. The single-player campaign mode sees the return of the original humanoid protagonist Chell. The new multi-player campaign allows two players to embody robots ‘Atlas’ and ‘P-Body’. Between creating portals and solving puzzles, the main objective is to use creativity and reasoning skills to work your way through various ‘test chambers’ and the span of the compound they are located in. Due to the darker humor elements touched upon during game play, Portal 2 would be best suited for families with kids more into their tween years.
Rock Band:
(Xbox 360, PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, Wii)
Since its 2007 release, the Rock Band dynasty has seen a healthy number of updates and expansion packs. The customizable music experience, and the chance for up to four people to rock out on tour as a band is what makes this game so great for family gaming fun. Each player can toggle their personal level of difficulty to make game play accessible for everyone. Players who are too young to hold the game instruments or read song lyrics can still get in on the fun by rocking out on the sidelines!
Wii Play:
(Exclusive to Wii)
Originally released in 2006, Wii Play has delighted players of all ages around the world. Comprised of nine different mini-games, this title offers something for everyone. Though designed for up to two players, the briefer nature of each mini-game makes taking turns simple. Featuring characters created in the Mii Channel exclusive to Wii, the whole family can jump around and play in style; both on and off screen. Intended as a counterpart to Wii Sports, Wii Music and Wii Fit, any title from this little ‘quad-rilogy’ would be a welcome edition to any family games night!
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There are dozens upon dozens of family friendly video games on the market. At the end of the day, only you know what type of gaming experience is best for your family. Be sure to check out the games mentioned on this list, as well as the countless others out there just waiting to be explored on your next family game night.
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