Best PS5 Games for Kids: Top 15 Family-Friendly Picks (2026)
The PlayStation 5 is not just a powerhouse for hardcore gamers — it is also one of the best gaming consoles for families in 2026. With its lightning-fast SSD, stunning visuals, and an ever-growing library of family-friendly titles, the PS5 offers something for players of every age. Whether your child is five or fifteen, there are plenty of PS5 games for kids that combine entertainment with age-appropriate content.
Finding the right kid friendly PS5 games can feel overwhelming when the PlayStation Store lists thousands of titles. That is exactly why we created this guide. Below you will find our handpicked list of the best PS5 games for kids, complete with ESRB ratings, co-op details, price indications, and honest recommendations based on hands-on testing. We also cover free PS5 games for kids, the best 2 player PS5 games for kids, and even a few educational PS5 games for kids that sneak learning into the fun.
If you are also considering Nintendo's handheld for your family, check out our roundup of cheap Nintendo Switch games for even more budget-friendly options. And if you are debating which PlayStation model to buy, our PS5 vs PS5 Pro comparison breaks down exactly what you get for the extra cost.
Table of Contents
- How to Choose the Right PS5 Game for Your Child
- Top 15 Best PS5 Games for Kids in 2026
- Best Free PS5 Games for Kids
- Best 2-Player PS5 Games for Kids
- Best Educational PS5 Games for Kids
- PS5 Parental Controls Quick Setup Guide
- FAQ
How to Choose the Right PS5 Game for Your Child
Before you hand your child a DualSense controller, it helps to understand how to pick good PS5 games for kids that match their age, interests, and your family values. Here are the key factors every parent should consider.
Understand ESRB Ratings
The Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) assigns every game an age rating. For PS5 games for kids under 10, stick with titles rated E (Everyone) or E10+ (Everyone 10 and older). Games rated T (Teen) may contain mild violence or suggestive themes — always read the content descriptors on the back of the box or in the PlayStation Store listing before purchasing.
Prioritize Co-Op and Multiplayer
Gaming is more fun (and safer) when the whole family can participate. Look for PS5 family games with local co-op or split-screen modes. Couch co-op titles let you sit beside your child, guide them through challenges, and share in the experience. For a deeper dive into shared gaming, browse our list of the best couch co-op games on PS5.
Consider Online Safety
If a game has online multiplayer, make sure you have PS5 parental controls enabled. Online lobbies can expose younger players to unfiltered voice chat and text messages from strangers. Free-to-play games like Fortnite and Fall Guys are massively popular with kids, but they require an active internet connection and a PlayStation Network account with appropriate restrictions.
Check for In-Game Purchases
Many kids games for PS5 are free to download but monetize through cosmetic purchases or battle passes. While these transactions are optional, they can add up quickly if a child has unrestricted access to a linked payment method. The PS5's parental controls allow you to set monthly spending limits — we explain how in the setup guide below.
Match the Game to Your Child's Skill Level
A five-year-old will have a very different experience with a platformer than a twelve-year-old. Games like Astro Bot and Sackboy offer gentle difficulty curves perfect for younger players, while Ratchet and Clank or Hogwarts Legacy provide more challenge for older kids. When in doubt, start with games that have adjustable difficulty settings.
Top 15 Best PS5 Games for Kids in 2026
Here are our top picks for the best PS5 games for kids this year, ranked by overall family-friendliness, fun factor, and replay value. Each entry includes the ESRB rating, recommended age range, genre, multiplayer options, and approximate price.
1. Astro Bot
ESRB: E (Everyone) | Ages: 4+ | Genre: 3D Platformer | Players: 1 | Price: ~$59.99
Astro Bot is the crown jewel of kid friendly PS5 games and arguably the best showcase of what the DualSense controller can do. Every level is packed with clever haptic feedback moments — your child will feel rain, sand, and ice through the controller. The difficulty is forgiving enough for young players while offering hidden collectibles that challenge older kids. If you own a PS5, this game is essential.
Why kids love it: Colorful worlds, adorable robot characters, and constant surprises in every level. The game never punishes failure harshly, making it ideal for first-time gamers.
2. Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart
ESRB: E10+ | Ages: 7+ | Genre: Action-Adventure | Players: 1 | Price: ~$39.99
Rift Apart is a visual spectacle that plays like a Pixar movie you control. The dimensional rift mechanic — where entire worlds load in under a second — is something only the PS5 can deliver. Combat is accessible with a generous auto-aim option, and the story introduces Rivet, a new Lombax hero that kids quickly grow attached to.
Why kids love it: Explosive weapons with silly effects, a heartfelt story about friendship, and some of the most jaw-dropping graphics on the platform.
3. Sackboy: A Big Adventure
ESRB: E (Everyone) | Ages: 4+ | Genre: 3D Platformer | Players: 1-4 (local and online co-op) | Price: ~$29.99
Sackboy is one of the finest PS5 family games available. Up to four players can team up locally, making it perfect for families who want to play together on a single screen. The levels are creatively designed with licensed music stages that sync gameplay to popular songs. It is also one of the best 2 player PS5 games for kids thanks to dedicated co-op levels that require teamwork.
Why kids love it: Playing together with siblings or parents, crafting custom Sackboy outfits, and the catchy music-synced levels.
4. LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga
ESRB: E10+ | Ages: 7+ | Genre: Action-Adventure | Players: 1-2 (local co-op) | Price: ~$29.99
This game covers all nine mainline Star Wars films with the signature LEGO humor kids adore. With over 300 playable characters and an open galaxy to explore, the content here is staggering. The split-screen co-op means two players can explore different areas independently, a welcome upgrade from the fixed-camera LEGO games of the past.
Why kids love it: Star Wars meets LEGO with hilarious cutscenes, massive character rosters, and approachable combat that never feels punishing.
5. Minecraft
ESRB: E10+ | Ages: 6+ | Genre: Sandbox / Survival | Players: 1-4 (local), up to 8 (online) | Price: ~$19.99
Minecraft needs no introduction. It remains the single most played game among children worldwide, and the PS5 version runs beautifully at a smooth framerate. Creative mode gives kids an infinite canvas to build whatever they imagine, while Survival mode adds just enough challenge to keep older kids engaged for hundreds of hours.
Why kids love it: Limitless creativity, the ability to play with friends, and an endless stream of community content.
6. Lego Horizon Adventures
ESRB: E10+ | Ages: 7+ | Genre: Action-Adventure | Players: 1-2 (local co-op) | Price: ~$49.99
The LEGO treatment applied to the Horizon universe creates something surprisingly delightful. Aloy's world reimagined in colorful LEGO bricks strips away the intense combat of the mainline games and replaces it with lighthearted, family-friendly action. The two-player co-op makes it a solid choice for parent-and-child gaming sessions.
Why kids love it: Familiar LEGO gameplay in a vibrant new setting, approachable puzzles, and building mechanics that feel fresh alongside the combat.
7. Gran Turismo 7
ESRB: E (Everyone) | Ages: 6+ | Genre: Racing / Simulation | Players: 1-2 (local split-screen), online | Price: ~$39.99
Gran Turismo 7 is the premier PS5 racing game for kids who love cars. While it is a serious racing simulator at its core, the extensive assist options — automatic braking, steering assist, and suggested racing lines — make it approachable for younger players. The Music Rally mode and license tests offer bite-sized challenges perfect for shorter play sessions. The car collection aspect also appeals to kids who enjoy cataloging and customizing.
Why kids love it: Beautiful cars, the thrill of racing, extensive customization, and assist options that let anyone compete.
8. It Takes Two
ESRB: E10+ | Ages: 8+ | Genre: Co-op Action-Adventure | Players: 2 (local or online co-op) | Price: ~$39.99
It Takes Two is a mandatory co-op experience — it literally cannot be played alone. Two players control a couple who have been magically shrunk and turned into dolls, and every level introduces completely new gameplay mechanics. It won Game of the Year for a reason. This is one of the most creative 2 player PS5 games for kids on the market, although some themes about divorce may require a brief conversation with younger children.
Why kids love it: Constantly changing gameplay, hilarious moments, and the satisfaction of solving puzzles together with a partner.
9. Overcooked: All You Can Eat
ESRB: E (Everyone) | Ages: 6+ | Genre: Co-op Cooking Sim | Players: 1-4 (local) | Price: ~$39.99
Overcooked bundles both Overcooked games and all DLC into one frantic package. Up to four players work together to prepare and serve meals in increasingly absurd kitchens — on a moving raft, in a haunted house, even in outer space. Communication and coordination are essential, making this a fantastic PS5 family game that naturally teaches teamwork. Expect laughter, shouting, and the occasional friendly argument.
Why kids love it: Chaotic fun that gets the whole room laughing, simple controls, and a sense of accomplishment when orders go out on time.
10. Fall Guys
ESRB: E (Everyone) | Ages: 5+ | Genre: Battle Royale / Party | Players: Online multiplayer | Price: Free
Fall Guys drops 60 colorful bean-shaped characters into obstacle courses inspired by TV game shows, and the last one standing wins. The game is completely free on PS5, making it one of the best free PS5 games for kids available right now. There are no violent elements — just goofy physics, silly costumes, and rounds that last a few minutes each, perfect for younger attention spans.
Why kids love it: Hilarious ragdoll physics, constant new seasons with fresh content, and the ability to play with friends online at no cost.
11. Rocket League
ESRB: E (Everyone) | Ages: 6+ | Genre: Sports / Racing | Players: 1-4 (local split-screen), online | Price: Free
Rocket League combines soccer with rocket-powered cars, and the result is one of the most addictive multiplayer games ever made. It is free to play on PS5 and supports local split-screen for up to four players, making it both a great free PS5 game for kids and one of the best 2 player PS5 games for kids. The skill ceiling is enormous — kids can enjoy casual matches immediately while spending years mastering aerial tricks.
Why kids love it: Cars playing soccer is an instantly appealing concept, matches are quick, and the skill progression is deeply rewarding.
12. Spyro Reignited Trilogy
ESRB: E10+ | Ages: 6+ | Genre: 3D Platformer | Players: 1 | Price: ~$39.99
Three classic Spyro games rebuilt from the ground up with modern graphics. These games are charming, colorful, and perfectly paced for younger players. Each world is relatively small and self-contained, so kids can complete a level in 15-20 minutes without needing marathon sessions. The difficulty is gentle, the collectibles are plentiful, and Spyro the Dragon remains an iconic character that appeals across generations.
Why kids love it: A friendly purple dragon, easy-to-learn controls, satisfying collectible hunting, and three full games in one package.
13. Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy
ESRB: E10+ | Ages: 7+ | Genre: 3D Platformer | Players: 1 | Price: ~$39.99
The N. Sane Trilogy collects the original three Crash Bandicoot games with completely remastered visuals. Fair warning — these games are harder than they look. The precision platforming can frustrate younger children, but kids aged eight and up who enjoy a challenge will find the difficulty rewarding. It is a great way to introduce older kids to one of PlayStation's most beloved mascots.
Why kids love it: Classic platforming that rewards persistence, wacky characters, and a nostalgic appeal that parents can appreciate too.
14. Fortnite
ESRB: T (Teen) | Ages: 10+ | Genre: Battle Royale / Creative | Players: Online multiplayer | Price: Free
Fortnite is a cultural phenomenon that most kids already know about. While the battle royale mode involves shooting, the cartoony art style and absence of blood keep things relatively mild. The Creative mode is where Fortnite truly shines for younger players — it essentially functions as a game-building sandbox where kids design their own islands and mini-games. As a free PS5 game for kids, it offers an extraordinary amount of content at no cost, though parents should monitor in-game spending on cosmetics.
Why kids love it: Crossover events with Marvel, Star Wars, and other franchises, the creative sandbox mode, and the social aspect of playing with school friends.
15. Hogwarts Legacy
ESRB: T (Teen) | Ages: 10+ | Genre: Open-World Action RPG | Players: 1 | Price: ~$39.99
For Harry Potter fans aged ten and up, Hogwarts Legacy is a dream come true. Players create their own witch or wizard, attend classes at Hogwarts, learn spells, brew potions, and explore a massive open world filled with magical creatures. The combat involves wand-dueling which is fantastical rather than realistic. The PS5 version features stunning visuals and fast loading that bring the wizarding world to life like never before.
Why kids love it: Living out the Hogwarts fantasy, spell-casting with the DualSense's haptic feedback, and exploring a richly detailed magical world.
Best Free PS5 Games for Kids
Budget matters for families, and fortunately some of the best PS5 games for kids cost absolutely nothing. Here are the top free PS5 games for kids worth downloading today:
- Fall Guys — A wholesome, slapstick party game with no violence and constant seasonal updates. Perfect for ages five and up.
- Rocket League — Competitive car-soccer with local split-screen. Skill-based and endlessly replayable.
- Fortnite — The biggest free-to-play game in the world, with Creative mode offering a safe sandbox experience separate from the battle royale.
All three games are supported by cosmetic microtransactions, but none of them require spending money to enjoy the full gameplay experience. Use the PS5's parental spending limits to prevent unintended purchases.
For a broader overview of free titles on the platform, visit our guide to the best free PS5 games.
Best 2-Player PS5 Games for Kids
If you have two kids sharing a console — or you want to play alongside your child — these 2 player PS5 games for kids deliver the best shared experiences:
| Game | Players | Co-op Type | Age Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sackboy: A Big Adventure | 2-4 | Local & Online | 4+ |
| It Takes Two | 2 | Local & Online | 8+ |
| Overcooked: All You Can Eat | 2-4 | Local | 6+ |
| LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga | 2 | Local | 7+ |
| Lego Horizon Adventures | 2 | Local | 7+ |
| Rocket League | 2-4 | Local Split-Screen | 6+ |
| Gran Turismo 7 | 2 | Local Split-Screen | 6+ |
The standout here is It Takes Two, which was specifically designed as a co-op experience and never allows solo play. For families with multiple children, Overcooked: All You Can Eat and Sackboy scale up to four players on a single screen.
Want even more options? Our full list of best couch co-op games on PS5 covers dozens of additional split-screen and shared-screen titles across every genre.
Best Educational PS5 Games for Kids
The PS5 is not typically thought of as an educational platform, but a handful of titles successfully blend learning with gaming. These educational PS5 games for kids are especially valuable for children under eight who are developing foundational skills.
Webnetic Educational Game Collection
For younger children, Webnetic's own educational lineup offers some of the most affordable learning games on the PlayStation Store. Priced at just $1.49 each, these titles target fundamental skills that preschool and early-elementary children are actively developing:
- Quick Mafs — A fast-paced math game that challenges kids to solve arithmetic problems under time pressure. It turns basic addition, subtraction, and multiplication into a genuinely engaging race against the clock. Great for kids aged 5-8 who are building number fluency.
- Quick Mafs Advanced — The step-up for children who have mastered the basics. Introduces harder operations and larger numbers, keeping the same addictive gameplay loop.
- Learn the Letters — An interactive alphabet learning game designed for children aged 3-6 who are beginning to recognize letters and sounds.
- Funny Alphabet — Another letter-based learning game with a playful twist, reinforcing letter recognition through mini-games and visual humor.
- Guess the Animal — An animal quiz game that teaches kids about different species through visual clues and fun facts. Perfect for curious minds aged 4-7.
- Rainbow — A color learning game aimed at the youngest players, helping toddlers and preschoolers identify and match colors.
At $1.49 per game, the entire Webnetic educational collection costs less than a single AAA title. These games prove that the PS5 can serve as a learning tool alongside being an entertainment device.
Minecraft (Creative Mode)
While not marketed as educational, Minecraft's Creative Mode is a powerful tool for spatial reasoning, resource management, and creativity. Many schools worldwide use Minecraft as a teaching platform, and the skills children develop — planning, problem-solving, collaboration — transfer directly to academic contexts.
Dreams
Media Molecule's Dreams lets kids create their own games, animations, and music compositions from scratch. It functions as an introduction to game design and creative software, and the community creations provide endless inspiration.
For a more comprehensive look at learning-focused titles across both PlayStation and Nintendo platforms, see our dedicated guide to educational games for kids.
PS5 Parental Controls Quick Setup Guide
Before handing over the controller, take five minutes to configure the PS5's built-in parental controls. Sony's system is comprehensive and easy to set up.
Step 1: Create a Family Account
Go to Settings > Family and Parental Controls > Family Management. You need an adult account (PSN account holder aged 18+) to create a family group. From there, you can add child accounts with individual restrictions.
Step 2: Set Age-Level Restrictions
For each child account, set the age level that corresponds to your child's actual age. The PS5 will automatically block games and content that exceed the selected ESRB rating. For PS5 games for kids under 10, set the restriction to E10+ or lower.
Step 3: Limit Communication and Online Features
Under Communication and User-Generated Content, you can restrict voice chat, text messaging, and the ability to view content created by other players. For younger children, we recommend disabling all online communication features.
Step 4: Set Monthly Spending Limits
Navigate to Parental Controls > Restrict Spending on PlayStation Store and set a monthly cap. This prevents kids from making unauthorized purchases in free PS5 games for kids like Fortnite and Fall Guys, which feature prominent cosmetic stores.
Step 5: Configure Play Time Settings
The PS5 allows you to set daily play time limits and define a "do not play" window. When the limit is reached, the console can either notify the child or automatically log them out. This feature is invaluable for managing screen time without constant parental negotiation.
FAQ
What are the best PS5 games for a 5-year-old?
For children aged five, stick with games rated E (Everyone) that have simple controls and gentle difficulty. Astro Bot is our top recommendation — it is visually stunning, easy to pick up, and the DualSense features make every level feel magical. Sackboy: A Big Adventure is another excellent choice, especially because a parent can join in co-op to help. Fall Guys is free and its short rounds match a young child's attention span perfectly. For learning-focused play, Webnetic's Learn the Letters and Rainbow are designed specifically for this age group at just $1.49 each.
Are there free PS5 games suitable for kids?
Yes, several high-quality free PS5 games for kids are available right now. Fall Guys (rated E) is the most kid-friendly option, with no violence and goofy obstacle-course gameplay. Rocket League (rated E) combines car racing with soccer and supports local split-screen. Fortnite (rated T) is free but better suited for kids aged 10 and up due to its shooter mechanics. All three are free to download and play without spending a penny, though they do feature optional cosmetic purchases.
Can two kids play together on one PS5?
Absolutely. The PS5 supports local multiplayer in many games, though you will need a second DualSense controller. The best 2 player PS5 games for kids include Sackboy: A Big Adventure (up to 4 players), It Takes Two (exactly 2 players), Overcooked: All You Can Eat (up to 4 players), LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga (2 players), and Rocket League (up to 4 players in split-screen). For the most comprehensive list, check our guide to the best couch co-op games on PS5.
How do I set up parental controls on PS5?
Go to Settings > Family and Parental Controls > Family Management on your PS5. Create a family group with your adult PSN account, then add your child as a family member. From there you can set age-appropriate game ratings, restrict online communication, limit PlayStation Store spending, and configure daily play time limits. The entire setup takes under five minutes and gives you granular control over what your child can access. See our step-by-step guide in the section above for detailed instructions.
Is PS5 better than Nintendo Switch for kids?
Both consoles are excellent for kids, but they serve different strengths. The PS5 offers superior graphics, faster loading times, the innovative DualSense controller, and access to blockbuster titles like Ratchet and Clank and Astro Bot. The Nintendo Switch wins on portability, has a larger library of first-party family games (Mario, Pokemon, Zelda), and its lower price point makes it more accessible for families on a budget. For the youngest children (ages 3-6), the Switch's handheld mode and simpler interface may be more practical. For kids aged 7 and up who want the best visuals and performance, the PS5 is hard to beat. Many families find that owning both consoles covers all their bases — browse our cheap Nintendo Switch games guide if you are considering adding a Switch to the household.
Find Your Next Family Game
The PS5's library of kid friendly PS5 games has never been stronger than it is in 2026. From free-to-play favorites like Fall Guys and Rocket League to premium adventures like Astro Bot and Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart, there is a game for every age, interest, and budget. Pair your purchases with properly configured parental controls, and the PS5 becomes one of the safest and most rewarding entertainment systems a family can own.
Ready to explore more titles? Browse our full games catalog to discover hundreds of PS5, PS4, and Nintendo Switch games — all with detailed reviews, age ratings, and pricing information. Whether you are looking for your child's first game or your family's next co-op adventure, the right pick is waiting.
