The Best PS4 Games for Kids of All Ages

There are a huge amount of PlayStation 4 games available, but not all of them are appropriate for children. That’s why we’ve rounded up the best PS4 games for kids.

In this article, you’ll find our pick of the best PS4 games for kids, separated by age group. Whether you’re looking for family games on PS4 or just something that’s non-violent.

The Best PS4 Games for Kids, Ages 0-5

If you’re interested in PS4 games for toddlers or children just entering school, you’re probably looking for basic games that allow them to have fun in colorful worlds. These titles are simple and allow children to enjoy themselves without stressing.

1. Tearaway Unfolded

Tearaway is a platforming game with a big emphasis on creativity. The world is built like a storybook, where everything is made out of paper. You play as a messenger who’s trying to bring a message to “the You” in the sky.

As it turns out, “the You” is how the in-game characters refer to the player. This game thus has you interacting with what’s happening on screen, such as using the PS4 controller’s touchpad to grab and move objects.

The game doesn’t feature any objectionable content, and provides young players with plenty of opportunities to use their creations in the game.

Get it now: Tearaway Unfolded

2. Knack 2

While Knack 2 isn’t the best platformer ever made, it’s a great choice for young children who are new to video games.

This is particularly the case in co-op mode, where an older player can help a younger player with trickier sections. For example, you can use your abilities, such as body slams, to boost the other player’s options in combat. And you can press R2 at any time to warp to the other player, letting the more experienced person clear tricky challenges.

Get it now: Knack 2

3. LEGO Marvel Super Heroes 2

Most kids love LEGO, and you’ll find tons of games featuring the various series that LEGO has teamed up with. Most of them feature open-world action platforming with LEGO renditions of familiar locales and characters. They’re cooperative, so you can play alongside your little one to help them out.

As the name suggests, this one features all kinds of content from the Marvel universe. There are dozens of LEGO games available on PS4, and these are the best LEGO video games. However, we picked this one to highlight since it’s newer and received strong reviews.

We recommend taking a look at the other options and buying one that your child is interested in. Other choices include LEGO The Incredibles, LEGO Jurassic World, and LEGO Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

Get it now: LEGO Marvel Super Heroes 2

The Best PS4 Games for Kids, Ages 5-8

Children that are a bit older can enjoy slightly more advanced games. The next group of PlayStation 4 games for kids let them use their imaginations and go on adventures.

4. Minecraft

Minecraft is the defining game of a generation, and a fantastic fit for children of pretty much any age. Not only is it free of any explicit content, but it’s also a wide open sandbox for kids to do whatever they like in.

They can explore the world, create structures, play with friends, or do whatever else strikes their fancy. Minecraft has few rules, and its room for creativity makes it an engaging title for kids.

Get it now: Minecraft: PlayStation 4 Edition

5. Spyro Reignited Trilogy

Many children of the 1990s grew up playing Spyro, and the Reignited Trilogy gives today’s kids a great way to do the same. It bundles remastered versions of the three original Spyro games into one affordable package.

The Spyro games are some of the best platformers on the PS4. They offer beautiful graphics, fantastic music, and fun worlds to explore. As 3D platformers go, they’re also pretty straightforward and easy to understand. This makes them a good fit for children who are starting to play video games on their own.

Get it now: Spyro Reignited Trilogy

6. Sonic Mania

Speaking of classic franchises getting a new start, Sonic Mania is a celebration of the classic Sonic games that many grew up playing on the Sega Genesis. It features level themes from the original games, along with some all-new stage designs.

It’s a bright and fast-paced platformer full of excellent music that kids should enjoy. Sonic titles offer a lot of replayability thanks to the sprawling level design that lets you take a different path each time.

Get it now: Sonic Mania

The Best PS4 Games for Kids, Ages 8-12

Kids who are at or approaching the “tween” stage can continue with games containing deeper mechanics, and thankfully you’ll find plenty of age-appropriate games that are still a ton of fun.

7. Rocket League

Rocket League is an arcade sports game that’s essentially soccer with rocket-powered cars. It’s a popular title because while it’s easy to pick up, the physics allow you to perform all kinds of trick moves to secure a victory.

You can play Rocket League alone, with friends, or against others online. It’s a fast-paced game that all kids will enjoy, but older kids will appreciate more.

Get it now: Rocket League

8. LittleBigPlanet 3

The LittleBigPlanet series is known for letting players use a wealth of tools to create their own levels and even whole games. It contains a wealth of premade content kids can enjoy alone or with friends, but it really shines in the level creator.

While there’s a lot of room for experimentation, older kids will likely be more equipped to dive into the game’s many systems and mechanics. But even if children don’t want to make levels, it’s a solid title.

Get it now: LittleBigPlanet 3

9. Everybody’s Golf

Sports games make great choices for kids’ games, as they’re family-friendly and usually easy to pick up. Everybody’s Golf isn’t a serious golfing simulator; it’s more of a laid-back golf experience like you’d find in a Mario sports title. It’s easy to learn the basics, and you can dive into the options further if you’d like.

Even better, like the best multiplayer PS4 games, Everybody’s Golf offers great local multiplayer. If you have multiple children or enjoy playing with them, this is a good pick for families to play together.

Get it now: Everybody’s Golf

The Best PS4 Games for Kids, Ages 12-16

Older kids who are approaching adulthood have lots of options for enjoyable games. Anything with a Teen rating is usually appropriate for this age range.

10. Burnout Paradise Remastered

Burnout Paradise is an open-world high-octane racing title. As per other Burnout games, driving dangerously earns you boost, which you’ll need to win races and other events. You also don’t have to be friendly—wrecking your opponents will temporarily slow them down and earn you further boost.

You’re free to conquer events in whatever order you wish. If you need a break, cruise around the world and find collectibles. It’s one of the best racing games on PS4, and a great pick for older kids who will enjoy mastering the city.

Get it now: Burnout Paradise Remastered

11. Stardew Valley

Stardew Valley is great for older kids interested in a calmer game. This simulation title has you moving to take over your grandfather’s farm and all the responsibilities that come with it.

You’ll have to manage your time performing tasks like clearing debris, purchasing seeds in town, and navigating your social life. It can be a bit overwhelming at first, but it’s a beloved title that players can get invested in.

Get it now: Stardew Valley

12. Horizon Zero Dawn

Horizon Zero Dawn is an open-world adventure that takes place in a primitive world with animal-like machines. You play as Aloy as she tries to figure out where she comes from.

The game has received praise for its interesting combat, solid story, and likeable characters. Many open-world titles are too mature for younger players, but Horizon Zero Dawn is appropriate for teens while still including a great experience.

Get it now: Horizon Zero Dawn: Complete Edition