The Best Kids' Video Games of the Decade (2010–2019)

It's hard to imagine how far gaming has come in the past 10 years. With the rise of livestreaming, esports, and VR, the video game landscape in 2019 is very different from what it was in 2010. To celebrate 10 years of incredible games, we've selected our 10 favorites for kids. We put them here in order by age rating. Each of the games on this list defined its genre and created a lasting impact that influenced many of the games that followed. While some have complicated legacies (we're looking at you, Fortnite!), all of these picks have inspired a new generation of gamers. To see more of the most affecting media in recent history, check out the Best Kids' Apps of the Decade and the Best Kids' Movies of the Decade.

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Super Mario Maker 2 Poster Image
GAME

Super Mario Maker 2

age 6+

Fun, accessible editing tools expose kids to game design.

Platforms: Nintendo Switch (2019)
Minecraft Poster Image
GAME

Minecraft

age 8+

Sandbox-style game with open online play fosters creativity.

Nintendo Labo Toy-Con Variety Kit Poster Image
GAME

Nintendo Labo Toy-Con Variety Kit

age 8+

Unique making experience melds crafting with video games.

Platforms: Nintendo Switch (2018)
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild Poster Image
GAME

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

age 10+

Vast adventure with some combat rewards logical thinking.

Platforms: Nintendo Switch , Nintendo Wii U (2017)
Portal 2 Poster Image
GAME

Portal 2

age 10+

Inventive and enjoyable spatial puzzler with mild violence.

Platforms: Mac , PlayStation 3 , Windows , Xbox 360 (2011)
Sid Meier’s Civilization VI Poster Image
GAME

Sid Meier’s Civilization VI

age 11+

Amazing world simulation can teach players about history.

Platforms: Windows (2016)
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Poster Image
GAME

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

age 8+

Cartoonish brawler is largest one yet, and incredibly fun.

Platforms: Nintendo Switch (2018)
Fortnite Poster Image with three players standing on edge of cliff holding weapons.
GAME

Fortnite

age 13+

Battle it out or use strategy in fantastic action game.

Platforms: Mac , Nintendo Switch , PlayStation 4 , Windows , Xbox One (2017)
StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty Poster Image
GAME

StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty

age 13+

Exceptional strategy sequel with some mature themes.

Platforms: Mac , Windows (2010)
Overwatch Poster Image
GAME

Overwatch

age 14+

Fantastic, frantic shooter with some violence, open chat.

Platforms: Mac , Nintendo Switch , PlayStation 4 , Windows , Xbox One (2019)