Top Video Games of 2011
Ready, Set, Play! We asked media experts, Warren Buckleitner, Ph.D., and Andrew Barnett, of the Children's Technology Review (an online kids' media rating and database), to share their picks for the best video games for children in 2011. Check out the winners.
By Kourtney Eidam & Samantha Mellone from Parents Magazine
-
EyePet & Friends
This new version of the hit motion game lets you and your child play with two pets at the same time with the Move controllers. Tickle-feed, or roll a ball and watch your virtual animals chase it.
(3 years+)What do you think of this story? Give your opinion!
-
I SPY Castle
In honor of its 20th anniversary, the I SPY franchise releases a new game with 36 riddles and 12 mini games in a castle setting. Players must use logic skills and keen attention to detail to unlock the rooms.
(4 years+)What do you think of this story? Give your opinion!
-
Sesame Street: Once Upon a Monster
Featuring popular characters from Sesame Street, this playful movement game uses the Kinect sensor to monitor your child's motions (such as tickling the on-screen Elmo) and provide helpful, instructional feedback so even the youngest gamers won't get frustrated.
(3 years+)What do you think of this story? Give your opinion!
-
Body and Brain Connection
Kids can give both their body and their mind a workout, thanks to the game's 20 activities that require players to solve puzzles with kicks, jabs, or poses. The better you do, the harder it gets.
(6 years+)What do you think of this story? Give your opinion!
-
Cars 2: The Video Game
Unlike earlier Cars titles, this one is a quality multiplayer racing game, complete with split-screen action, which is great for a high-tech playdate with your child and up to three of his friends.
(6 years+)What do you think of this story? Give your opinion!
-
Kinect Disneyland Adventures
Can't afford a trip to the park? Bring it to your TV! This innovative motion game gives families an all-access pass to discover the magic of the park, whether it's high-fiving Mickey and other mascots or flying through Neverland with Peter Pan or exploring Wonderland with Alice. Best part? No line!
(5 years+)What do you think of this story? Give your opinion!
-
LittleBigPlanet 2
Bigger, better, and easier to use, this DIY sequel is all about using your imagination to make the game you want. Kids can get creative and collect gadgets to design their own story levels.
(6 years+)What do you think of this story? Give your opinion!
-
Nicktoons MLB
Hit a home run as Fanboy, Chum Chum, or other Nick favorites, and play along with animated versions of real-life pros in this baseball simulation game. The Kinect version even lets you bat and pitch with your hands--no controller needed.
What do you think of this story? Give your opinion!
-
Kirby's Return to Dream Land
The playful pink blob has a well-earned reputation for delivering sometimes unique, always entertaining games for kids, and this year is no exception: Up to four players can now get in on the action at once.
(8 years+)What do you think of this story? Give your opinion!
-
Lego Harry Potter: Years 5-7
Want to see two warring kids play nicely together? Try this artfully done two-player cooperative game! It gives little brothers and sisters a chance to team up to solve problems, which are more comical in the game than in the movie series.
(8 years+)What do you think of this story? Give your opinion!
-
Mario Kart 7
Burn some rubber in 3-D with this fast, fun, pocket-size racing game for up to eight players. Kids will think the 3-D effects look great, especially when performing the aerial tricks.
(7 years+)What do you think of this story? Give your opinion!
-
SpongeBob SquigglePants for uDraw
Put down the controller and pick up the stylus! With the uDraw tablet, kids can sketch their way through more than 100 fast-paced mini games with their favorite silly sea sponge.
(7 years+)What do you think of this story? Give your opinion!
-
Super Mario 3-D Land
Super Mario games have been around since parents were kids, but you've never seen one like this. With 3-D graphics, Mario can now jump in and out of a level, as well as back, forward, up, and down, which makes judging depths more of an amusing challenge.
(7 years+)What do you think of this story? Give your opinion!
-
Wii Play: Motion
Twelve interesting mini games take the Wii motion controls to new heights: In one, your child has to balance an ice-cream cone by holding the controller vertically as scoops rain down. For another, she has to hunt for invisible ghosts, using sounds as clues.
(8 years+)What do you think of this story? Give your opinion!
-
Nickelodeon Dance
Learn some easy-to-follow steps with Dora, Diego, the Backyardigans, and other cartoon characters. Designed for parents and children to play together, the game boosts coordination, gross motor skills, and sweet dance moves with 30 G-rated songs.
(3 years+)Originally published in the December 2011 issue of Parents magazine.
What do you think of this story? Give your opinion!
-
Parents Are Talking
Add a Comment