Looking for fun options? Screen split games are great for playing with children.
Looking for fun options? Screen split games are great for playing with children.
I’ve managed five children, which has turned into quite a challenge. Understanding that certain titles can become frustratingly repetitive—potentially ruining enjoyment for everyone—here’s a selection of modern games I’ve picked out as someone outside the Nintendo circle. Switch titles are simply too costly for a large family setup.
For four players:
- Moving Out – Excellent for all ages
- Overcooked – Demanding coordination, not ideal for toddlers but amazing when everyone is in sync
- Rocket League – Similar vibe, but with less intensity
- Delivery Service – Casual fun with quirky physics
In the single-player space:
- LittleBigPlanet 3 – Tight campaign, beloved platforming style
- Unrailed – Easy to grasp, becomes tougher later on
- Borderlands Handsome Collection – Gore can be turned off for a gentler experience
- Minecraft – Focus on challenges, themed builds, speedruns, etc., to keep things fresh
For teams:
- Team Sonic Racing – Polished racing action, solid gameplay
- Brawlhalla – Approachable yet engaging, with satisfying moments
- Gang Beasts – Fun atmosphere, though controls can be tricky at first
On two players:
- Injustice 2 – Smooth combat, appealing to younger audiences
- Enter the Gungeon – Energetic beat-’em-up with vibrant visuals
- Fortnite – Fast-paced, but not tailored for kids’ needs
- The Fine – Balanced racing experience
Other picks:
- LEGO – Many options, but quality drops quickly; good for short bursts
- Get one affordable title with appealing branding (like Gran Turismo)
- COD Zombies – Can feel like a survival game but not optimized for dual play
- Sports titles – Generally simulation-heavy, often too complex
The takeaway? Mixing devices is key. While there are many multiplayer options, split-screen isn’t always practical. Embrace the need for dedicated setups to keep everyone engaged.
I and my son enjoy playing classic beat 'em ups. We love Ninja Turtles, AvP, Nightslashers, Violent Storm, DnD titles, and MAME games. Bullet hell titles such as Aero Fighter are amazing. Modern games like the Lego series work well, Overcooked is fun, Milenium Soldier is solid, Duke Nukem 3d offers co-op, and Diablo 3 runs on consoles.