Best Video Games for Teens

If you have a teen gamer on your hands, this list is for you. We've compiled some of the best options on the market for the 12-and-older set, from classic RPGs and adventure sims to turn-based strategy games and brainteasers loaded with learning. Be forewarned: We know that content for older gamers can sometimes push the edge of what parents are comfortable with. These top-rated titles aren't as mature as Call of Duty or Grand Theft Auto, but some still contain edgy content some kids may not be ready to handle. Be prepared to discuss how sex and violence are depicted in these popular picks.

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Fitness Boxing Poster Image
GAME

Fitness Boxing

age 10+

Rhythmic fitness game packs a strong punch.

Platforms: Nintendo Switch (2019)
A Case of Distrust Poster Image
GAME

A Case of Distrust

age 12+

Stylish Jazz Age mystery with engaging story, heroine.

Platforms: Mac , Windows (2018)
Aegis Defenders Poster Image
GAME

Aegis Defenders

age 12+

Complex but highly rewarding adventure focused on teamwork.

Platforms: Nintendo Switch , PlayStation 4 , Windows (2018)
Astro Bot: Rescue Mission Poster Image
GAME

Astro Bot: Rescue Mission

age 12+

Adorable platformer adventure raises the VR gaming bar.

Platforms: PlayStation VR (2018)
Aven Colony Poster Image
GAME

Aven Colony

age 12+

Off-world city-builder rewards patience with deep gameplay.

Platforms: PlayStation 4 , Windows , Xbox One (2017)
Below Poster Image
GAME

Below

age 12+

Fun, challenging tale with random dungeons, some violence.

Platforms: Windows , Xbox One (2018)
Bendy and the Ink Machine Poster Image
GAME

Bendy and the Ink Machine

age 12+

Freaky first-person adventure full of animated jump scares.

Platforms: Nintendo Switch , Xbox One , PlayStation 4 , Windows , Mac (2018)
Blasters of the Universe Poster Image
GAME

Blasters of the Universe

age 12+

Fast, fun VR action lets you dodge virtual bullets.

Platforms: HTC Vive , Oculus Rift , PlayStation VR (2018)
Brass Tactics Poster Image
GAME

Brass Tactics

age 12+

VR strategy delivers fun, accessible robotic combat.

Platforms: Oculus Rift (2018)
Burnout Paradise Remastered Poster Image
GAME

Burnout Paradise Remastered

age 12+

Harsh crashes dominate in intense, exciting racer.

Castlevania: Anniversary Collection Poster Image
GAME

Castlevania: Anniversary Collection

age 12+

Classic action games have lots of vampires, a bit of blood.

Platforms: Nintendo Switch , PlayStation 4 , Windows , Xbox One (2019)
Dread Nautical Poster Image
GAME

Dread Nautical

age 12+

Turn-based action game with some violence, touch choices.

Everybody's Golf VR Poster Image
GAME

Everybody's Golf VR

age 12+

Fun-to-play golf scores hole in one with VR debut.

Platforms: PlayStation 4 , PlayStation VR (2019)
Faeria Poster Image
GAME

Faeria

age 12+

Fun strategy blends a living board game and card collection.

Platforms: Mac , Nintendo Switch , Windows , Xbox One (2020)
Galaxy of Pen and Paper Poster Image
GAME

Galaxy of Pen and Paper

age 12+

Retro adventure full of cheesy jokes, fun gameplay.

Platforms: Mac , Windows (2017)
Hand of Fate 2 Poster Image
GAME

Hand of Fate 2

age 12+

Approachable RPG has cool presentation, fussy combat.

Platforms: Nintendo Switch , PlayStation 4 , Windows , Xbox One (2018)
Lone Echo Poster Image
GAME

Lone Echo

age 12+

Great space adventure showcases great story, VR technology.

Platforms: Oculus Rift (2017)
Magic the Gathering: Arena Poster Image
GAME

Magic the Gathering: Arena

age 12+

Collectible card action appeals to beginners and vets alike.

Platforms: Windows (2018)
Metroid: Samus Returns Poster Image
GAME

Metroid: Samus Returns

age 12+

Great sci-fi remake reinvents itself for a new generation.

Platforms: Nintendo 3DS (2017)
Monster Hunter Stories Poster Image
GAME

Monster Hunter Stories

age 12+

Buddy up with fantasy creatures in fun RPG spin-off.

Platforms: Nintendo 3DS (2017)