Christmas is fast approaching and children everywhere are writing their wish lists for Santa. As with every year, video games are sure to be among the most requested presents by kids. In fact, you’re probably wondering what are the best games to get kids for Christmas. Whether they don’t know specifically what games they want or if you just want to be sure you’re buying something suitable for them, it can be hard to know what video games to get as a gift. There’s so much to choose from across a range of different consoles. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
Despite the pandemic causing delays to production across the gaming industry, 2021 has still delivered a plethora games of all types and for all ages. So, to make things easy, this list is a Top 5 of games to buy kids for Christmas 2021.
Games To Get Kids For Christmas 2021
1. Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
Available on: PS5
Genre: Third-person shooter platform
Rating: E10+, PEGI 7
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart is the sixteenth instalment in the long-running series following the adventures of Ratchet and his robotic friend, Clank. Rift Apart brings a new twist to the series with the introduction of inter-dimensional rifts that allow travel between parallel worlds. This is made possible by the Dimensionator machine. Doctor Nefarious (the series’ villain) tries to steal it, causing an accident that opens random dimensional rifts. Ratchet and Clank are then stranded in an alternate universe.
The series is known for its light-hearted and kid-friendly humour, as well as its creativity and action-packed gameplay. Reviews of this most recent entry have been fantastic. It will surely be included in many Game of the Year lists. Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart is exclusive to PlayStation 5. So, it’s the perfect game to accompany a new PS5 console that may be waiting under the Christmas tree.
2. Forza Horizon 5
Available on: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC
Genre: Racing
Rating: E for Everyone, PEGI 3
Forza Horizon 5 is the next game in the hugely successful and critically-acclaimed Forza racing series. Renowned for its stellar graphics and fun driving mechanics, Forza Horizon 5 is this Christmas’ must-purchase game for any driving fan.
The new game is set in Mexico and features the biggest open world in the series to date. Environments include cities, volcanoes, jungles, ancient ruins, beaches and everything in between. There’s also a new dynamic weather system that adds another layer of complexity to Forza‘s deep driving mechanics.
3. Psychonauts 2
Available on: PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC, Mac, Linux
Genre: Platform
Rating: T for Teen, PEGI 7
Psychonauts 2 is the long-awaited sequel to 2005’s Psychonauts. The original Psychonauts game was a critical success but due to poor sales a sequel was put on hold for many years. After the original game was re-released for newer consoles in the 2010s, fan sentiment and crowd funding prompted development to begin.
Psychonauts 2 is set in an alternative universe where psychic powers exist. In the game, the player controls Raz. He’s a budding Psychonaught. Psychonaughts comprise an organisation that uses psychic powers to stop those with evil intentions. Raz enters different mindscapes in the game and uses his powers of telekenesis, pyrokenesis and levitation to find clues to solve a mystery. Psychonauts 2 received really strong reviews from critics.
4. Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl
Available on: Nintendo Switch
Genre: Role-playing game
Rating: E for Everyone, 7
Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl are remakes of the 2006 Nintendo DS games Pokémon Diamond and Pearl. The new Pokémon games are probably the biggest Nintendo Switch release this holiday season. They’ll be can’t-miss for Pokémon fans and most Switch owners.
Set in the region of Sinnoh, the player takes on the role of a Pokémon Trainer who must collect and battle Pokémon to ultimately become the best. The game offers a distinct and loveable visual style, and a detailed open world that players can immerse themselves in. Pokémon games are perfect for kids and adults alike and provide hours of creature-collecting fun.
5. Kena: Bridge of Spirits
Available on: PS4, PS5, PC
Genre: Action Adventure
Rating: T for Teen, PEGI 12
Kena: Bridge of Spirits came out earlier this year to positive reviews. It has a wonderful Disney-esque visual style and follows a young spirit guide, Kena. In this world, spirits can be caught between the worlds of the living and dead if they feel unfinished. Kena’s task is to help them move on.
In the game, Kena travels to an abandoned village in search of a Mountain Shrine. Before she can get access to the Shrine, she has to help the trapped spirits of a decaying forest. Along the way, small and cute creatures called the Rot help Kena as she battles dangerous foes with her staff.
Kena: Bridge of Spirits has an age rating of T or 12 (depending on where you are), so may not be suitable for younger children. Obviously, that comes down to your discretion.
I hope this list has helped you decide what games to get kids for Christmas 2021. Let us know in the comment section below which games you’ll be picking up and don’t forget to check out our other gaming articles…
