Not all RPGs are made with kids in mind, so parents need to know the best RPG Video games for kids based on age group if they want to find titles that are appropriate for their children. As a gamer, I love RPGs, but as a dad, I’ve found a new appreciation for them as they bring me and my 15-year-old daughter closer together. The time we spent scouring the dungeons of one of my favorite RPGs growing up isn’t just quality time spent together. It is a chance for her to relive the past with me in real-time while doing something we both enjoy. The benefits have been excellent for both of us.
If this idea resonates with you, but you don’t know where to start, don’t worry; Parenting Patch has you covered. This comprehensive list of RPGs across all major platforms is broken down by age range.
One of the best parts about RPGs is that even the ones meant for the youngest kids are still fun for adults, so the age range is mainly so you feel comfortable with the games your child is playing, even when you’re not in the room. You’ll want to bookmark this one so you can return for more challenges as your kids and connections grow.
With so much opportunity out there to access games across generations, this list covers everything from new titles to throwbacks that you will want to revisit.
Stardew Valley (4+)
There are many RPGs for younger kids that we will cover, but Stardew Valley may be the most quintessential beginner RPG there is. To begin, while this game does include some reading, most of it isn’t necessary for core gameplay, so even the pre-readers can play. Parents can feel secure knowing that their kids won’t encounter any violence or mature content in this game.
You start by inheriting a small farm and some used tools from your grandfather. The goal of the game is to turn your run-down inheritance into a thriving farm that grows season after season. You learn valuable skills and build relationships with neighbors along the way. One of the reasons this is a fantastic beginner RPG for kids is that you set your own end goals, so there is no need to “finish” the game in a specific manner. It’s not just one of the best RPG video games for kids; it’s also one of the most popular among teens and adults.
Available On: Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, Playstation VITA, PS5, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, iOS and Android
Dodgeball Academia (4+)
A role-playing game about dodgeball sounds like it would be dead on arrival, but Dodgeball Academia is charming. The world is relatively open as you roll around the campus, looking for people to engage with in a dodgeball battle. Each battle you win nets you coins that can be used to buy upgrades and new items.
The gameplay is almost a merger of action RPG and turn-based strategy. You are in small spaces with limited teams, like a turn-based game, but the action never stops. When you are in a dodgeball game, you play until one team wins. There are some fire and electricity effects on people, but they are cartoonish, and players get stars around their heads when they get knocked out, like an old Looney Tunes cartoon. The fact that the violence is relatively tame and reading isn’t required to play makes this a perfect all-ages game.
Available On: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, Nintendo Switch, and Nintendo Switch 2
Miitopia (4+)
My kids mocked me mercilessly when we fired up the Wii I got in college because my Mii looked nothing like me. It turns out that fifteen years and three kids add a few pounds and some gray hairs. When Miis were introduced, no one could have imagined they would have full games built around them. Miitopia is one of them, combining elements of lifestyle and combat RPGs.
You get to play as your Mii on an adventure against an evildoer who is stealing Mii’s faces. My favorite part is that they offer unique classes, such as chef and popstar. One of the biggest knocks on this game is that it isn’t incredibly challenging, especially in the early stages. So, while it may not be perfect for mom and dad, it’s a great beginner RPG for the kids.
Available On: Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo Switch, and Nintendo Switch 2
Calico (4+)
Calico is designed for two types of people: beginners and cat enthusiasts. I’m a personal fan of the artwork because it is strikingly different than most video game art. It is hard to describe Calico, but the best way would be a gentle cross between Monster Hunter and Stardew Valley.
The whole point of the game is to build and grow your cat cafe. Players explore a decent-sized map, looking for all kinds of critters to send back to the cafe. The reason it reminds me of Monster Hunter is that you come across normal cat-sized cats, but you can also come across ones you can ride and even giants. There is no fighting and no right or wrong to this game, so as long as they can figure out the controls, a kid as young as four could absolutely play Calico.
Avaialble On: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, and Nintendo Switch 2
Dragon Quest Builders 1&2 (4+)
Not to be confused with its fighting RPG source material, Dragon Quest Builders is a lifestyle RPG meant for smaller kids. The game plays much like Minecraft, where you use blocks to create bases at campsites. The more effort you put into your base, the more it levels up. While the focus is on building, just like in Minecraft, pesky creatures try to attack your base. There is a day and night cycle in this game, and the creatures that come out at night are stronger than the daytime menaces.
This is another slow-paced, low-risk game that younger kids can play to figure out game mechanics. There is some suggestive dialogue in this game, but no more than you’d hear in a Dreamworks movie. Furthermore, the dialogue doesn’t matter much to the game, and kids can click through it, so most of them won’t even read it. Dragon Quest Builders is one of those games parents will have to test themselves to see if they think their children are mature enough to play it, but I’m personally comfortable with my six-year-old playing it.
Available On: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, and Nintendo Switch 2
Mario and Luigi: Brothership (4+)
Nintendo has done a pretty spectacular job of making Mario RPGs. While this game has many of the elements of Mario RPG and Paper Mario, its game mechanics are different enough to warrant an entirely separate property. Instead of having a full party in this game, you team up as Mario and Luigi on an adventure. There is a fun mix of combat and puzzles, which both offer the perfect amount of challenge for kids. The entire Mario series is family-friendly, and this is among the best RPG video games for kids who gam on a Nintendo Switch or Switch 2.
Several aspects make this game special for kids. One of the most glaringly obvious ones is that Mario and Luigi must work together to deliver the most damage possible. This teaches kids about the importance of collaboration and reminds them that working together with their siblings yields better results than fighting with them. There is turn-based combat in this game, but it is no more violent than any other Mario game where you jump on the heads of goombas.
Available On: Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2
Rogue Legacy 2 (4+)
Kids and Parents will only have to play Rogue Legacy 2 for a few minutes to figure out what the hype is about. This side-scrolling RPG has so much charm and is as adorable as it is fun. Players hack and slash their way through a regular side-scroller, figuring out puzzles along the way, but there is a legitimate RPG aspect to this game.
The coolest part of this game is that there are thirteen different classes, and you are randomly assigned one when you start the game. It takes all the thinking out of it, so you work to make your character the best version of that class it can be. This is not an incredibly long game with a run lasting between 15 and 20 hours, but the number of variables in this game makes the replay value infinite. Rogue Legacy 2 has an ESRB rating of E10+ because of fighting and some crude humor, but most of it (like fart jokes) will land well with the smallest people in your house – especially pre-k and kindergarten boys like mine. It’s easy enough to understand the gameplay, and there isn’t too much reading involved, so Rogue Legacy 2 is a fantastic game for the whole family.
Available On: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2
Super Mario RPG (7+)
This was one of my first and favorite RPGs, and I’m looking forward to sharing the updated version for the Switch with all three of my kids. Although this game is on the rudimentary side for turn-based RPGs, it still holds some complexity that makes it a great beginner RPG for kids in the 7+ age range.
The one aspect I don’t like about this game as an adult is that there isn’t a ton of customization. In most RPGs, each class has a range of weapons and armor they can carry, whereas in this game, each character has specific tools that are upgradeable, but there isn’t a lot of variety. The updated version of this game for the Switch keeps the same gameplay but updates the graphics and some character names, and allows you to listen to the classic music or a new score explicitly made for the ported version.
Available On: Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2
Pokemon (7+)
Pokémon was an instant hit when it was first released and has only grown bigger since then. This RPG, where you play as a Pokémon trainer who collects and battles made-up creatures, has spawned multiple sequels, TV shows, movies, games, toys, and more. My favorite thing about Pokémon is that it has spanned so many generations, allowing my kids to play it on my first Game Boy and their Switch. There are many versions of Pokémon to choose from, ranging from heavily RPG-driven to more of a static play experience. If you’re kids are just getting started, Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver are considered among the best options, especially for new players to the franchise.
Pokémon is a great RPG because it allows players the freedom to do as they please within the game. Since your weapons are living creatures, you get to create a team for every situation. The worst part about this series is the fantasy violence, and Pokémon don’t die; they just get knocked out, so this game is fantastic for younger kids. The only caveat is that Pokémon requires a lot of reading, so kids need to be up to that challenge.
Available On: Every handheld Nintendo console ever made
Minecraft Dungeons (7+)
Minecraft Dungeons is what happens when someone in the room asks why they haven’t made a Minecraft Dungeon crawler yet. It doesn’t have every aspect of dungeon crawlers that fans of this kind of game are used to, but it’s still fun. The official ESRB rating for this game is E10+, but if your child is old enough to play Minecraft, they’ll be old enough to play this game. Minecraft is a favorite among many children so it’s not surprise we would place it among the best RPG video games for kids.
You start as Steve with some basic weapons, such as a sword and a bow. Every time you level up, you are given an enchantment point that can be used to upgrade your weapons. The developers did an excellent job of staying true to the main themes of Minecraft while also making this an entirely unique game. Just like any other dungeon crawler, you collect new weapons and armor as you go to be able to take on increasingly more difficult enemies.
Available On: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2
Bug Fables (7+)
The art in this game is incredible; It’s reminiscent of Paper Mario but starring bugs. I love how tame it is. Even the fighting doesn’t seem very violent, and bad guys just disappear into a puff of smoke when they die. There is not a ton of customization here, but the story is long enough that you can sink quite a few hours into it.
You start as a beetle who teams up with a warrior bee in search of fame and fortune. This game would be perfect for the youngest kids if it weren’t for some interesting game mechanics and a lot of stories that you have to read. I personally enjoy the way the fight mechanics work in this game because your attacks are pulled down on a vine above you. When you choose your attack, you still need to be active in the fighting process by landing your attack in a specific area of the power bar for the most damaging attack. Kids younger than seven will likely not have the reflexes necessary to land attacks.
Available On: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2
Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening (7+)
Most games in the Zelda universe could be considered RPGs, but I chose this one specifically because it is meant for all ages. The graphics are much softer than traditional Link games, so even though you are hacking and slashing, it isn’t overwhelming for smaller kids. Whether this is an introduction to Zelda or one in a line of many great games, your whole family will fall in love.
You wake up as Link in a strange land with talking animals and monsters that don’t care for you. This game is great for younger kids, but they should be able to read, and there are traps all over the dungeons that require problem-solving skills. The thing that really sets this game apart from the others is the colorful and charming cast of characters that you meet along the way.
Available On: Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2
Ni No Kuni (7+)
Ni No Kuni is a criminally underrated game that combines features of many of the most popular RPGs. It is described as a playable fairy tale with an anime aesthetic. There are a host of Ni No Kuni games dating back to the Nintendo 3DS, but most are available on multiple consoles in the American market. Start with the first, and if you like it, they only get better.
The coolest part about this game, apart from the graphics, is the battle system, which is a strange mix of other RPGs. You end up on a small map like a turn-based game, but then the action is all fluid. In addition, your character doesn’t do the fighting; you toss out a pet to fight like in Pokemon. Despite the game’s T for Teen rating, there is really nothing to worry about here. There is no excessive violence or language; the story is easy to follow, and the graphics are visually appealing.
Available On: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2
Golf Story (7+)
How do you make a golf RPG? Great question, but Sidebar Games managed to make it happen. It’s a newer game, but as is popular with indie games at the moment, it uses a 16-bit aesthetic. Golf Story is a little weird and nowhere near your traditional RPG, but that is part of its charm.
Players take on the role of an ex-golfer who is trying to reclaim his passion for the game while impressing his estranged wife. There are golf challenges instead of melee fighting, which is awesome for parents who want to tamp down the violence. It still plays like an RPG, as you earn points to improve your skills and gear as you go. The only reason this game is rated 7+ is that it involves a fair amount of reading.
Available On: Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2
Kitaria Fables (7+)
Kitaria Fables is another RPG that knocks it out of the park by not knowing exactly what it is. This game walks a tightrope between being a farming RPG and an action RPG. There is a significant farming aspect to this game, but it becomes more of a healing mechanic than it is a significant part of the game.
Kitaria Fables, at its heart, is a light-hearted dungeon crawler for kids. It is an action RPG where you can upgrade your sword, build a bow, and learn spells as the main character. I like this game, especially for kids, because it has some simplified elements like a warning system to know when and where you’re being attacked. There is also no XP in this game, so the focus is more on collecting and building than leveling up. The violence in this game is mild, making it suitable for children under 7, but the inventory system may be a bit too complex for younger kids.
Available On: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2
Paper Mario Series (7+)
Nintendo rarely misses with one of its flagship properties, so when they attach Mario to something you know, it should be good. The Paper Mario series has been around since the N64, and it continues to be amazing in every iteration. For those unfamiliar with this particular version of Mario, players play as a paper cutout of the titular character in a 2D world.
In true Nintendo fashion, these games are a mix of traditional turn-based strategy RPGs and the fast-paced side-scrolling of a Mario Adventure. This game is fun for the whole family, but it also features puzzles to solve and some game mechanics that may be a bit challenging for younger kids to master. If you’re a parent looking for some peace and quiet, getting kids hooked on this RPG series will buy you a lot of time.
Available On: Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2
For the King (7+)
I love For the King because it’s a true couch co-op game that I can play with my kids. Not only is it a couch co-op, but it also takes the dungeon crawler format and tweaks it a little to make it not your everyday RPG. When you start, you choose between four classes, but instead of a warrior, rogue, or sorcerer, you get a blacksmith, minstrel, scholar, and hunter. Another exciting aspect of this game is that it has a tabletop RPG feel, where players move around on a board instead of in an open environment.
This game is rated T for teens due to fantasy violence, but the graphics make it difficult to take the fighting seriously. For the King is a little complicated, but if you are playing with your kids, you’ll be able to figure it out together. What’s really cool about this game is since it has that board game feel, you can play through it in around 11 hours, which leaves plenty of replay value where you can mix and match characters and get a feel for what type of character class each family member likes.
Available On: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2
Little Witch in the Woods (7+)
This game is every bit as adorable as it sounds. It is more of a lifestyle RPG, like The Sims and Stardew Valley, than it is a combat RPG. There is little fighting in this game as it focuses much more on learning your witching skills and making friends.
One of the main goals of this game is to learn potions, which some parents may balk at, but it is truly harmless. The nature of this game makes it suitable for all ages, especially younger children, but it does involve a significant amount of reading. Little Witch in the Woods is all about having a relaxing and enjoyable time, but that makes it a perfect starter RPG for kids to learn the mechanics in a slow-paced game.
Available On: Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S
Animal Crossing: New Horizons (7+)
Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a charming lifestyle RPG that helped many families navigate the pandemic. This lifestyle RPG is all about the good parts of life and ignores anything that isn’t about decorating your house and building a community. There is no combat in this game, and the most challenging aspect for kids is reading the dialogue between players. If you want a low-stimulation game for your child, then is among the best RPG games for kids, and it’s also a favorite among many adults!
Animal Crossing came at a time when none of my kids were interested in it, but all of my friends were. I know people who took entire weeks off of work to play this game when it was first released. The only reason this game is rated 7+ is that kids will need to have a decent grasp of reading and problem-solving skills to thrive in this game.
Available On: Nintedo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2
The Last Kids on Earth and The Staff of Doom (10+)
We are big on horror in my house, but that doesn’t always translate to the littles, so you have to ease them into it. This one started as a Netflix TV show, and as most of us can attest, visual media to video games rarely works out. Fortunately, they were able to make this into a neat little RPG.
This game takes the classic overhead style of an action RPG and combines it with lighter artwork, making it the perfect RPG for young gamers. You can play as one of four different characters, and it supports up to four players in couch co-op. Weapons and abilities can be upgraded, and every monster you fight has unique abilities and weaknesses, so it’s like a puzzle every time. This game doesn’t have a ton of playing hours, but the price reflects that.
Available On: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2
Kingdom Hearts (10+)
Kingdom Hearts has been a darling in the gaming industry since its original inception. The rise of streaming services has somewhat diluted the nostalgia of the Disney Vault, but when the first version of Kingdom Hearts was released, it was magical to have access to all these Disney characters. Disney fans will absolutely love the game because you interact with so many characters, from Donald and Goofy in your party to helping out Disney heroes like Hercules.
They have updated the games with better graphics, but the fighting mechanics of this game are a little clunky especially the original version. A fair amount of fantasy violence and a necessary amount of reading make this game perfect for those in the 10+ range. Kingdom Hearts first debuted on the PlayStation 2, so for a lot of parents, revisiting this game will be like revisiting your childhood.
Available On: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2
Shining Force 2 (10+)
This one is entirely for me; it is one of my personal favorite RPGs of all time. This is a classic turn-based RPG for the Super Nintendo that you can download for the Switch. Even though this is a single-player game, there is still so much to love. Your biggest problem will be wrestling this game away from your kids so you get a turn.
What I love the most about this game is the eclectic cast of characters you gather along the way. Each has specific abilities that help you in your quest. The game also offers numerous hours of gameplay and vast, diverse maps, making it a great investment. There is some fantasy violence, but it is pretty tame. What makes this game 10+ is the significant amount of strategy and reading required.
Available On: Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2
Harvest Moon Series(10+)
Harvest Moon is another franchise that began with the SNES and has only improved with each new version. This game is way more about the journey than it is the destination, as the maps are enormous, and there aren’t the types of battles that RPG players are used to.
This is more akin to a lifestyle RPG, similar to The Sims, Animal Crossing, or Minecraft. You build a farm, go mining, and build relationships with NPCs. This game is great for kids ten and up who are looking for something different than what they are used to. There is no coarse language or violence in the Harvest Moon series; however, the game is slower than most, so kids younger than ten may get bored fast.
Available On: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2
Child of Light (10+)
Child of Light is a cinematic RPG that feels like you are part of a storybook. The artwork in this game is indescribably gorgeous, and it mixes elements of a traditional side scroller with a puzzle-based RPG. The game itself is short, with about ten hours of playing time in the main story, but there is so much going on in the background that kids will want to play again and again to catch what they missed.
This is another example of a fantastic beginner RPG with elements that will ease them into more mature RPGs later on. You gain XP to level up skills on different skill trees and learn new attacks as you go. Fantasy violence against monsters, slightly complicated mechanics, and complex puzzles make this game suitable for the 10+ crowd.
Available On: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2
Coral Island (10+)
This laid-back farm simulator is an ideal way to instill the values that farm simulators offer but in a uniquely engaging way. Coral Island is similar to Stardew Valley in many ways, except this game takes place on an island. On top of farming the island, you can go diving and collect items from underwater. You even get to interact with mermaids while playing Coral Island.
This game is a perfect RPG for parents who want to skip the fighting aspect of these games. The only issue is that your characters can get into relationships, so it’s probably best for older elementary and above. What makes Coral Island stand out against similar games like Sims and Stardew Valley is an emphasis on conservation and caring for animals and the environment, which are great lessons for developing kids.
Available On: Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2
Star Trek Legends (10+)
Star Trek is a beloved franchise on its own, but it becomes even better when you get to take control of your favorite characters. As the name insinuates, players get to play as all of the legends of Star Trek from the original on. If you live in a Star Trek house, kids will immediately know and love the characters and the settings.
The fatal flaw of so many video games based on media properties is that they are often generic skins over the same old fighter. Star Trek Legends is a fully fleshed-out RPG. Each character has unique weapons, specials, and abilities, which makes the game more enjoyable and adds a strategy aspect to how you build your team. While Star Trek is way more about inclusivity and technology, there is some fantasy violence involved, so this game stays at its ESRB rating of E10+.
Available On: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2
Chrono Trigger (10+)
Apart from Final Fantasy, there may not be a more recognizable RPG than this one. It is about as standard as a turn-based dungeon crawler as you can get, but that’s because it was one of the first. Chrono Trigger is so popular that it has been ported or remade for every console imaginable.
You get to play as a group of adventurers traveling through time to fight bad guys and prevent the destruction of the world. The game uses the popular time battle system like the Final Fantasy games, which could be described as turn-based+, since it is still turn-based but considers other factors that change the character’s turn in battle – like a speed attribute. Chrono Trigger is pretty tame by today’s standards, even with updated graphics, but depictions of blood and alcohol make it a 10+ game.
Available On: PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2
Collection of Mana (10+)
The original Secret of Mana was another SNES game that was so popular that it has been ported and rebooted a few times, resulting in a Collection of Mana. This has been another fun game to introduce to my kids, as it reminds me of my own childhood. Luckily, we’re in an era where the 16-bit graphic is popular in indie games, so they don’t see it as an “old game.” Remastered games on newer platforms have better graphics, but those 16-bit graphics hold a special place in my heart.
Some people criticize the story of the original Secret of Mana, but I think that’s more a result of hindsight, given that it’s 20/20. At the time this game was released, a lot of games didn’t even have stories, so even a flimsy one was fun to follow. While The Secret of Mana is pretty tame compared to today’s media, it gets a slightly higher age rating because there are a few suggestive themes and light swear words.
Available On: Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2
No Man’s Sky (10+)
No Man’s Sky is a contemporary RPG that takes place in space. Unlike most other RPGs on this list that are about building communities or fighting bad guys, this one is all about survival. You’ve crashed your spaceship on a foreign planet, and it is up to you to figure out how to fix it so you can get home.
No Man’s Sky is all about the experience, so if you have a child who cares a lot more about how the game looks than how it plays, this may be the game for you. There is some combat in this game, but it is fairly unengaging and mainly involves shooting at drones. There is a sequel to this game that is slightly more intense but still suitable for kids. I like the original because it’s excellent for a specific subset of kids who would much rather explore in space than follow a storyline.
Available On: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2
Advanced Wars: Re-Boot Camp (10+)
The original Advanced Wars was released in 2001, which seems like an eternity ago. The reboot, featuring both Advanced Wars 1 and 2 with updated graphics, is just what the doctor ordered to bring this game into the modern gaming era. Advanced Wars is special because it bucks the trends of other RPGs to give you a unique experience.
Unlike most other RPGs that focus on building skills and upgrading weapons and armor, this game focuses way more on battle strategy. The battle mechanics are interesting because you play on a board game map where you run into other players like you would in checkers. From there, you can choose to engage in battle or wait to see what your opponent does. As a strategy RPG, this game plays a little differently as it focuses more on skill than strength. This, combined with the military theme that features guns and other weapons of war, makes this a game suitable for kids aged ten and older.
Available On: Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2
Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time (10+)
Fantasy Life is a unique mixture of lifestyle RPG and Dungeon Crawler. It features cutesy graphics, and the game begins much like a lifestyle RPG, focusing on work, building a home, and other daily life activities. Once you get the hang of the lifestyle aspects of the game, you are transported to an island where the battle part of the game begins.
I love this game for my kids because it offers a little of everything. It supports online and couch co-op with up to four players, offering a lot of collaborative fun. This game is rated 10+ due to depictions of alcohol and violence; however, the cartoonish graphics make it feel more suitable for children. Parents playing this game with their kids can probably get away with playing with kids younger than ten since they will be able to control what’s on the screen.
Available On: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2
Baldur’s Gate (14+)
Baldur’s Gate is three separate games with two different strategies. The first two games were my favorites as a teenager, and now I play them with my daughter on my PS5, even though they were originally released for the PS2 and have been ported to the PS5. Baldur’s Gate 1&2 are action RPGs, while the newest is a turn-based RPG. This is one of the best RPG video games for kids aged 14 and up, due to the nature of the content it presents.
At their heart, these fantasy RPGs are mimics of the most famous RPG of all – Dungeons and Dragons. You choose a character based on class, like warrior, necromancer, or rogue. Players battle their way through dungeons and various monsters, all while picking up gear along the way to help them. You also get to increase your stats as you level up, so there is a high amount of replay value as you can play the same character and get different results each time. There is some flirting and blood in these games – even the older versions – so it’s probably best for the teens in the house.
Available On: Playstation and Xbox Consoles
The Dungeon of Naheulbeuk: The Amulet of Chaos (14+)
As the name implies, this is another dungeon crawler, which makes sense since many RPGs are based on the original. Almost all of it seems pretty generic when you take it at face value, but the game is a lot of fun. I recently started playing it with my daughter, and we’ve been having a blast.
You get to control up to eight characters at the same time, which may seem like a lot, but each character has specific talents, so it becomes pretty clear who you should strategize to use. What I love specifically about this game is the added effects. For instance, if you stab someone in the back as the rogue, you do more damage than if you were to attack the opponent from the front. Unfortunatley, this game would be awesome for younger kids, but they’ve injected so much coarse language into the game that it is recommended for 14+. However, if your kids attend the same middle school as my kids, they’ll have heard it all by 12.
Available On: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
Monster Hunter Series (14+)
The Monster Hunter series is an immersive world that offers numerous hours of replay value, which your older kids will love. There are many games in this series, and while they all play about the same, they have different settings. The good news is, if your kid loves one, they’ll likely love them all.
As the title suggests, you are a monster hunter who travels around killing monsters and selling their parts. These games have all the elements you want from an action RPG. Not only do you get to customize your characters, you even get to form your own weapons. There are whole cities for you to craft, trade, buy, sell, and communicate. Even though you are fighting dinosaurs, this game is better for older kids because the violence is a bit more realistic, and there are plenty of examples of colorful dialogue.
Available On: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2
Sims 4 (14+)
The Sims has taken over my house, and my 15-year-old daughter has fallen in love with RPGs. There were almost tears in the beginning when a corrupt save file derailed her progress. I describe the Sims series as the world’s most literal RPG since you play life.
Players go through all aspects of life, including the most mundane and exciting parts. You get married, have babies, buy a house, go to work, and eventually, the Grim Reaper comes calling. Since this game explores aspects of life such as baby-making and death, it is best suited for older kids; however, it is an excellent way for young teens to explore these ideas in a safe, low-risk environment.
Available On: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
Cris Tales (14+)
Cris Tales is like a fever dream RPG that looks like a cross between Anime and a PBS kids show. There is not too much to say about this game because it is just a solid RPG with all the elements you would expect from a turn-based RPG. You get an eclectic cast of characters that you will fall in love with while you destroy bad guys that are anything from cute to disgusting.
There are a few things that stop this from being the perfect game. It has about 22 hours of playtime, which isn’t nothing, but it is minimal compared to some of the other games on this list. The game mechanics are also somewhat wonky and require some getting used to. These, mixed with some fantasy violence, make this an excellent game for teens and up.
Available On: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2
Braverly Default (14+)
Braverly Default could be described as putting the parts of a bunch of different dungeon crawlers in a bag and pulling them out in random order to make a game. The plot and characters are pretty generic, typical of RPG stock, and the graphics are outdated. However, they are releasing an updated version with new graphics for the Nintendo Switch 2.
Bravely Default remains enjoyable despite being somewhat generic. It has hours of playing time in the main game and a lot of fun sidequests, so you could buy this game once and keep your kids busy all summer. This game receives a slightly more mature rating due to depictions of alcohol use and the use of real weapons by the characters.
Available On: Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2
Hand Of Fate Series (14+)
You will not find another RPG like this. RPGs are always fun, but apart from a few outliers, they have a pretty standard formula. Hand of Fate and its sequel are a mix between a traditional dungeon crawler and a board game. Players choose tarot-like cards that determine their fate and the direction of the game.
If you want to get your kids into tabletop RPGs but they’re apprehensive, this is the game for them. This game plays like someone’s idea of a D&D video game from the 90s. It reminds me a lot of the popular battle chess phase that we went through in the early 90s. There is nothing inherently wrong with this game, aside from the expected fantasy violence; however, it is intended for older kids because it requires a lot of reading and strategizing.
Available On: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
Final Fantasy Series (14+)
The Final Fantasy series is easily the most recognizable video game RPG on the planet. They’ve made so many of these games they could have a list of their own. My kids haven’t gotten to the Final Fantasy series yet, but that’s simply because they’re working through other RPGs first. Final Fantasy will always be around in one form or another.
Most Final Fantasy games revolve around the Warriors of Light, which are a group of fighters that are tasked with restoring balance to their world. These games range anywhere from their 8-bit beginnings to contemporary graphics. Final Fantasy was never geared toward kids, so it gets a 14+ rating because there is plenty of violence, swearing, and sexual suggestion in these games.
Available On: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2
Lunar Remastered (14+)
Lunar is another game that started as a JRPG in the 1990s and was so beloved they keep bringing it back for other consoles. What I really like about what they did with the Lunar ports is that they upgraded the cut scene graphics but left the gameplay with that 16-bit feel. Apart from that, Lunar feels like a run-of-the-mill turn-based RPG.
I like this one for kids because it’s so straightforward. The story is generic, and the dungeons don’t have a lot of traps or dead ends. The fighting mechanics, as well as leveling up and upgrading weapons, are all simple tasks. Unfortunately, the downside of this game is that it would be perfect for younger kids if the updated version didn’t have particular themes. For this reason alone, this game should be suitable for kids older than thirteen.
Available On: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2
Hogwarts Legacy (14+)
When I first caught wind of an RPG for the wizarding world, I was over the moon. Thankfully, this game didn’t disappoint me or my older kids. This is the closest that you will ever get to Hogwarts, and it is amazing. You get the full Harry Potter experience, even getting sorted by the sorting hat and choosing your wand.
Hogwarts Legacy stands out as not only one of the newest but one of the most complete RPGs on this list. While the game has a different aesthetic to it than a traditional RPG because you are using wands and broomsticks instead of swords and horses, it is still a classic RPG at heart. The battle mechanics have a learning curve to them, but no more than a game like Monster Hunter. Due to the learning curve and a few story elements, kids should be a little older before playing this game.
Available On: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2
BioMutant (14+)
BioMutant is an intriguing game that plays like Monster Hunter but has a much softer aesthetic. I’m not sure if you’re really supposed to be cute in a game called BioMutant, but your character is cute, like Rocket Racoon is cute. In true RPG fashion, you can change up your character’s look as well as their attributes as you progress through the game.
BioMutant is set in a positive dystopian timeline. Civilization as we know it has long been gone, but it isn’t the dark and gloomy apocalypse that most dystopian tales tell. Instead, this game is brightly colored with a fair amount of detail. Everything about this game is standard, which is actually a good thing because that means there is no learning curve involved. If you or your kids have played action RPGs before, this game should feel pretty familiar. This game is awesome, and your older kids will love it, but they should probably be at least 14 years old.
Available On: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2
Dragon Quest Series (14+)
Not to be confused with the spin-off RPG Dragon Quest Builders, this is another JRPG with roots in the NES. As of this writing, Dragon Quest XI is available, and XII is in development. It takes something special to be on the twelfth version of a game with other spin-offs in the same universe.
The coolest part about the Dragon Quest series is it seems like the developers care about the gaming experience. I wouldn’t start your kids on Dragon Quest because it will probably ruin other RPGs for them. The story is always great, and the fight mechanics are fantastic. The graphics in newer games are cartoonish enough not to scare little kids but can still convey danger. Earlier Dragon Quest games are fantastic for kids as young as seven, but newer versions have slightly more mature material, so kids should be at least fourteen for this one.
Available On: Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, Playstation VITA, PS5, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, iOS and Android
If you’ve enjoyed this list of the best RPG video games for kids, check out our list of the Best Nintendo Switch Games For Kids and the Best PS5 Games For Kids.
