Some of the best gaming systems for kids saw an uprise in sales in the Pandemic, when children were forced to stay home, devoid of any constructive activities.
They became a way to engage kids in an activity that not only helped pass time but also learned teamwork and the values of supporting each other throughout a task.
Unlike previous concepts and opinions, today’s studies and research conducted on the effects of gaming on kids conclude that it actually enhances their cognitive abilities and physical reflexes. Gaming gives children perspectives to consider that may perhaps be different from their own, and they analyze the new set of information with an open mind.
The perspective shape-building in gaming helps kids retain heuristic ideas. No wonder parents are now more enthusiastic about indulging their kids in the world of gaming and looking out for the best gaming systems for kids on the market.
Gaming consoles that offer the best features do come at a very high price. The good news is, they last for a long, long time and offer a variety of games to keep your kids occupied. They learn newer concepts, polish their problem-solving skills, and understand scenarios with a different mindset.
Need more reason to invest in one of the best gaming systems for kids? Go check out the holiday season’s deals today.
What To Look For In Gaming Systems For Kids
There are three options to consider when it comes to buying a worthy gaming console:
- Consoles that connect to the TV or Computer.
- Consoles that are handheld.
- Consoles that offer both of these options.
Each of these options comes with pros and cons depending on your required specifications. Handheld consoles, of course, are the way to go for road trips or if you are on the move a lot.
Gaming consoles serve a better purpose at home while also offering better features like excellent graphics. It all comes down to choosing the ideal console for the appropriate age of your children with games that fall in the concerned rating/category.
Best Gaming Systems For Kids
Let us now see which of the gaming systems have been trending this year for kids to get their hands on.
PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4 Slim or Pro 1 TB
Optimized for 4K TVs with a powerful and fast processor, PS5 has smooth play and visually striking games. It also supports the older PlayStation games. Users love how the triggers simulate the feel of characters, and the controller vibrates, also adding to the overall experience. Controllers come with a built-in microphone that adds to the interaction with players in multiplayer games.
PS4 has engaging games such as the Lego Marvel Super Heroes 2 and Steamworld Dig 2 (rated 10). The whole family can benefit from it as the console doubles as an ultimate entertainment center with PlayStore Streaming services. They have newly released movies, music from Spotify, and even TV channels. Parental controls let you decide multiple features like allowing online features for kids, controlling spending limits at the account wallet, and much more.
Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch Lite
The Nintendo Switch can be docked with an HD TV or used in handheld mode. The tabletop mode allows multiplayer mode, and the helpful stand cuts down on the need to find a suitable place to rest the console on. Joy-Con grips can be used as one or two controllers, and kids can link eight systems together. Parents can manage guidelines and control how their family interacts using the Parental Controls feature.
In the latest Switch version, a 7-inch OLED screen comes with a high-resolution, on the move and at home. It has enhanced audio and has an adjustable stand. It is also compatible with the Joy-Con controllers of the older Switch.
Nintendo Switch Lite is perfect for small hands and never-ending car rides. It is one of the best portable gaming systems for kids with a sleek design and fully integrated control panel. This mobile-only console can not be used with the TV.
Microsoft Xbox One S, Xbox Series X or Series S
The Xbox One S has 1TB of storage, 1300+ games, and 4K UltraHD Blu-ray plus 4K video streaming. There is a massive selection of games for everyone in the family. Xbox Live lets the kids play with online friends and gain access to daily-use apps like YouTube and Spotify, etc.
The other more affordable options are either to hook up the Xbox Series X to your giant 4K UltraHD TV and play endlessly, or you can get the Xbox Series S to play the same games, many of which are available online with a monthly subscription, The downside is the compromise on the 4K quality.
10.2-inch iPad 2021
2021 64 GB, 10.2 inch iPad, has a retina display and has built-in stereo speakers. Have a fun family gaming session or a quick educational tour on the car ride. The kids will love the large display.
Sega Genesis Mini
The mini version of the classic Sega Genesis console has been designed for nostalgic adults who are ready to relive the glory days of Sonic the Hedgehog. More than that, younger kids can get as much out of this console that has 40 built-in classic games, even if the graphics aren’t what everyone is used to these days.
Features Of The Best Gaming Systems For Kids
Game Library
Ensure that the game library for that particular gaming console is vast and immense. For example, PlayStation has hundreds of games in multiplayer while the Nintendo Switch offers fewer games because of its partnerships with various companies. Know which game suits your kids; 18+ and R-rated games shouldn’t even cross your child’s path, so select games with ow nudity and profanities.
Portability
Tiny consoles are easy to carry around in those little hands. Handheld consoles are easy to take along wherever you are going, but gaming systems do not offer this luxury.
Parental Control Panel
There’s always a chance that kids might wobble to the wrong side of the online world. Moreover, some of the games come with mature content. For a safer environment for the kids on the gaming console, parental locks and passwords can protect them from being exposed to sensitive stuff.
More Features To Consider Include:
- Separate accounts for games
- Size and weight of handheld consoles
- Battery
- Durability of the product
- Price range
What do you think is the best gaming system for kids these days? Let us know if it differs from the ones we have covered for you today.