If your child has been asking you for an Xbox 360 gaming console, we have curated a list of the best Xbox 360 games for kids that you can buy with it. One of the most popular gaming consoles, the Xbox 360 can help your child explore the virtual world. With diverse themes, features, and graphics, these games are adventurous, fun, and keep your child entertained for hours. They bring the best of entertainment and gaming to your home, and you can spend quality time playing these child-friendly Xbox 360 games with your child. So, take your pick from the options below and start gaming.
Top Picks
Best Xbox 360 Games For Kids
1. Best For Role Playing:Rockstar North Grand Theft Auto V
Image: Rockstargmes The GTA V game involves a story wherein the players could enter and exit the lives of the three lead characters to face different situations and sides of the inter-related story. With an interesting plot, this multiplayer action game will keep your teen’s excitement going for hours. Have a look at this review for a better understanding of the gameplay.
Specifications
- Release date: November 18, 2014
- IGN rating: 10
- Genre: Action/Adventure
- Suitable for: Ages 17+ years
- Also available on: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series S/X, PlayStation 4, PC, PlayStation 3, Xbox One
Pros
- Easy to play
- Has many engaging layers
- Fun-filled and adventurous
- Good graphics
Cons
- May take time to load
- Language may be slightly profane
2. Best Thrilling:Sega Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed
An exciting racing saga, this Sonic racing game has iconic characters from Sega’s gaming universe who own unique vehicles that can transform into planes, boats, or cars. With over 20 All-Star characters, this game can be played across 25 different courses and allows the player to use different weapons to shoot, aim, block and evade.
Specifications
- Release date: November 16, 2012
- IGN rating: 6
- Genre: Sports, racing
- Suitable for: Ages 10+ years
- Also available on: Xbox One, iOS, PC, Nintendo 3DS, Wii U, PlayStation 3, PS Vita, Android
Pros
- Single player and multiplayer modes
- Polished graphics
- Creative tracks
- Inventive and colorful maps
Cons
- Menu may be a bit hard to maneuver for younger children
- Some may occasionally experience delayed actions
3. Best Lego-Themed: Warner Bros. Games Lego Jurassic World
Go back 65 million years to the world of dinosaurs in Lego bricks form with this Xbox 360 game for kids. Players can choose human characters such as Owen, Dr. Wu, Zach, Claire, Gray and Hoskins. The game allows you to build your version of Jurassic Park using the Lego bricks, find and capture any escaped dinosaurs, and repair the damage caused by the escaped animals.
Specifications
- Release date: June 12, 2015
- IGN Rating: 6
- Genre: Action/Adventure
- Suitable for: Ages 10+ years
- Also available on: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, iOS, Android, Nintendo 3DS, macOS, PlayStation 3, PS Vita, Wii U
Pros
- Features over 20 dinosaur species
- Includes customizable dinosaur collection
- Large map area to explore
- Includes single player and double player modes
Cons
- May have some violence and crude humor
- May glitch occasionally
Quick tip4. Best Minecraft-Themed: Telltale Games Minecraft: Story Mode – Season 2
Minecraft is one of the most popular video games that both kids and adults love. Season 2 of the Story Mode version continues the story from the first season, where players embark on a new journey as Jesse, the hero of the Order of the Stone. They must assemble a new team of friends and navigate through exciting challenges, puzzles, and risky situations.
Specifications
- Release date: July 11, 2017
- IGN rating: Not rated
- Genre: Adventure, puzzle
- Suitable for: Ages 10+ years
- Also available on: Android, Xbox One, iOS, PC, macOS, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4
Pros
- Interactive characters with actor voice-overs
- Customizable characters
- Interesting storyline
- Multiple levels that encourage skill development
- Minimal violence with no gory details
Cons
- May require internet connectivity for most parts of the game
- Gameplay may be a bit shorter than expected
5. Best For Marvel Fans: Lego: Marvel Super Heroes
A game based on the Marvel universe never fails to enthrall fans. With all your favorite characters and exciting features, this Marvel game is an ideal choice for Marvel fans.
- This game has a wide range of characters, such as Iron Man, Wolverine, Hulk, Spider-Man, Captain America, Black Widow, Loki, and Deadpool.
- It showcases different locations such as Stark Tower, Asteroid M, an abandoned Hydra Base, and the X-Mansion.
- It can be played in single-player and multiplayer modes.
- Characters also deliver fun dialogues to give the player a realistic experience.
Specifications
- Release date: October 22, 2013
- IGN Rating: 9.0
- Genre: Adventure game
- Suitable for: Ages 10+
- Also available on: Nintendo Switch, Wii U, PS4, PS3, and Xbox One
6. Best For Music And Dance: Activision Guitar Hero Live
With Guitar Hero, your kid is a rock star. The simulation game allows your child to strum the guitar for their favorite band, as crowds cheer on! Turn your living room into different venues such as concerts, clubs, and stages, play for different bands and celebrity artists such as Taylor Swift, Ozzy Osbourne, Jimmy Hendrix, and Kurt Cobain. Check out this video to learn more about this entertaining game.
Specifications
- Release date: October 20, 2015
- IGN rating: 9
- Genre: Arcade, music
- Suitable for: Ages 10+ years
- Also available on: Xbox One, iOS, Wii U, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4
Pros
- Includes a guitar-shaped controller to simulate actual guitar playing
- Immersive concert experience
- Fun and easy to play
- Single player and multiplayer modes available
Cons
- Some songs may have reference to drugs, alcohol, and smoking
- Offline playlist may be limited
Trivia7. Best For Dance: Microsoft Dance Central 3
Dance Central 3 for Xbox 360 is a game that makes sure your child is thoroughly entertained yet stays active at the same time. It allows your child to have fun while burning as many calories as possible. The aim of the game is to learn and complete as many dance routines as possible to get the highest score.
Specifications
- Release date: October 16, 2012
- IGN rating: 8
- Genre: Simulation, music, and dance
- Suitable for: Ages 13+ years
Pros
- Includes multiple levels of choreography
- Customizable player avatars
- Includes 45 songs
- Includes single player and multiplayer modes
Cons
- Dance moves may be a bit repetitive
- Long intro to songs
Best Racing Games For Xbox 360
Racing games are exciting yet easy to play, which makes them one of the most popular genres of games that people buy today. Here is a list of the top racing games for Xbox 360.
8. Best Multiplayer: Electronic Arts Need For Speed Most Wanted
Need For Speed is a game that any racing enthusiast can master with ease. You can pick from a fleet of cars available in the game and customize them to match your avatar. Dodge cops as you race through the city in this open-world street racing game, where the objective is to climb the leaderboard, known as the Blacklist, to become Most Wanted, the fastest and most notorious street racer. Check out this review video for more details.
Specifications
- Release date: November 11, 2005
- Genre: Racing
- IGN rating: 9
- Suitable for: Ages 13+
- Also available on: GameCube, Xbox, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 2, PlayStation Vita, PC, PSP
Pros
- Engaging graphics
- Large map area to explore
- Immersive and realistic gameplay
- Includes single player and multiplayer modes
Cons
- Gameplay may be shorter than expected
- Story may feel a bit underdeveloped to some
9. Best 360 degree: Bandai Namco Grid Autosport
A popular Xbox 360 racing game for kids, Grid Autosport stands out from most other racing games as it is set in closed circuits. The races in this game take place on dedicated tracks and closed street circuits, so the chances of running into traffic or civilians are non-existent. It also creates a more realistic environment for the player as you play as a racing professional trying to reach the top of your career.
Specifications
- Release date: June 24, 2014
- IGN rating: 3
- Genre: Racing
- Suitable for: E-for-Everyone rating
- Also available on: PlayStation 3, iOS, PC, macOS, Linux, Android, Nintendo Switch
Pros
- Visually appealing graphics
- Vehicles with customizable parameters
- Tracks set in different countries around the world
- Includes single player, double player, and multiplayer modes
Cons
- Vehicle choices may be a bit limited
- Driving motion may not be as smooth as expected
Educational Games For Xbox 360
Combine entertainment with education with these engaging Xbox 360 games designed for children’s learning.
10. Best Animal-Themed: Microsoft Kinectimals
Kinectimals is an interactive animal-themed platform game you can use to teach your children about different animals. Adopt a virtual animal cub and name, groom, and care for them through this game. You can also interact with them as though they are your pet by using the Kinetic sensor. Have a look at this review to learn more about this adorable animal game.
Specifications
- Release date: November 4, 2010
- IGN rating: 7
- Genre: Digital pets, simulation, family
- Suitable for: E-for-Everyone rating
- Also available on: PC, iOS, Android
Pros
- Features over 20 wild animals
- Includes accessories for your pets
- Includes challenges to teach your pet new tricks
- Immersive experience using voice and body commands
Cons
- May not have a multiplayer mode
- Mini games may be a bit repetitive for some
11. Best Combat-Based: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
If your child loves the thrilling movie “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles”, get them this combat-based game that is based on the movie and has the four beloved characters: Leonardo, Raphael, Donatello, and Michelangelo.
- The game features thrilling action experiences such as acrobatic jumping from rooftops, scaling tall buildings, and diving down sewer pipes.
- The game can be played by multiple players.
- With easy-to-understand instructions, this game is beginner-friendly.
- Some villains from the original comic books make surprise appearances in the game.
Specifications
- Release date: March 20, 2007
- IGN Score: 8.5
- Genre: Hack and slash
- Suitable for: Ages 10+
- Also available on: Nintendo Wii, PC, Sony PSP, and Game Boy Advance
12. Best Quiz-Based: Ignition Entertainment National Geographic Challenge
The National Geographic Challenge has five different modes for your child to play by themselves or with a group of friends. Through various levels of puzzles, the Nat Geo Challenge introduces children to artists like Michaelangelo, stories of emperors like Nero and Julius Caesar, geographical wonders, the animal world, and other interesting subjects.
Specifications
- Release date: November 22, 2011
- IGN score: NR
- Genre: Educational, Trivia
- Suitable for: E-for-Everyone rating
- Also available on: Wii, PC, PlayStation 3
Pros
- Nat Geo original content
- Includes 4,000 questions
- Features HD videos and mini games
- Includes single player and multiplayer modes
Cons
- May not be suitable for younger children
- May not be as interactive as expected
13. Ubisoft Sesame Street: Once Upon A Monster
Sesame Street: Once Upon A Monster is a great Xbox 360 game for toddlers and preschoolers. Based on the popular television show of the same name, the Kinect game for kids engages them directly with the Muppets from Sesame Street. They have to help the monster characters in the game by solving problems for them while learning new skills along the way.
Specifications
- Release date: October 11, 2011
- IGN score: 5
- Genre: Educational, adventure, family
- Suitable for: E-for-Everyone rating
Pros
- Interactive game with physical activity
- Story-based learning
- Encourages problem-solving
- Vibrant, engaging visuals
Cons
- Kinect may have occasional issues with recognising motion
- Younger children may need parental help to play
14. Microsoft Kinect Rush: A Disney-Pixar Adventure
Kinect Rush is an action-packed motion-sensor based game that encourages children to move around and engage in cooperative play as they can team up with their friends or their favorite Disney and Pixar characters. The game allows children to pick a movie character avatar such as Woody from Toy Story, Lightning McQueen, the Incredibles, and Remy from Ratatouille.
Specifications
- Release date: 20 March 2012
- IGN score: NR
- Genre: Racing, adventure
- Suitable for: E-for-Everyone rating
Pros
- Encourages a high level of physical activity
- Includes five different movie worlds to explore
- Includes puzzles and challenges
- Cooperative mode has a split-screen feature
Cons
- May not be suitable for smaller spaces
- Kinect may take some time to connect initially
15. Valve Portal 2
Portal 2 is a sequel to the 2007 award-winning educational game for Xbox 360. The player has to move through test rooms by solving the puzzles in them and carry a gun that can open portals to travel through different dimensions in this virtual world. This physics-based puzzle platformer game challenges the players’ cognitive abilities and encourages them to think of different ways to successfully move up levels.
Specifications
- Release date: April 18, 2011
- IGN score: 5
- Genre: Puzzle, Adventure
- Suitable for: Ages 10+ years
- Also available on: Linux, macOS, PlayStation 3, PC, Xbox One
Pros
- Includes single player and two person cooperative multiplayer modes
- Engaging storyline and dialogue
- Encourages out-of-the-box thinking
- Challenges utilize core concepts of physics
Cons
- May have a limited replay value
- Some puzzles may be a bit challenging for younger players
Sports Games For Xbox 360
Sports games are among the most popular Xbox games for kids. Here is our pick of the best Xbox sports games for children.
16. Microsoft Kinect Sports: Season 2
The sequel to the Kinect Sports is one of the best Xbox sports games for kids. The game is filled with a variety of physical activities for you to master. Your children can have fun playing outdoor sports such as tennis, golf, darts, American football, baseball, and skiing. They can also take it up a notch by competing with other players on your network using the Challenge Play feature.
Specifications
- Release date: November 4, 2010
- IGN score: 8
- Genre: Sports
- Suitable for: Ages 10+ years
Pros
- Motion-sensor based gameplay
- Encourages physical activity
- Fosters healthy competition
- Suitable for family bonding
Cons
- Has a limited number of sports
- Some games may not respond as well as the others to the motion sensor
17. EA Sports FIFA 16
If soccer is a game that your children enjoy, the EA Sports FIFA series is a good fit for them. The simulation game allows kids to play for men’s or women’s soccer teams of their choice and choose between world famous soccer legends. It includes immersive features such as No Touch Dribbling, and Interception Intelligence, which let you customize how aggressive your teammates will be during the game.
Specifications
- Release date: September 22, 2015
- IGN score: 8
- Genre: Sports
- Suitable for: E-for-Everyone rating
- Also available on: PS4, PS3, Xbox One, PC, iOS, Android
Pros
- Promotes healthy competition
- Teaches basic soccer moves and tackling techniques
- Entertaining yet easy to play
- Includes single player and multiplayer modes
Cons
- Some graphics and audio may be recycled from previous versions
- Online mode may be a bit slow for some
Movie-Themed Xbox 360 Games
Movies made with kids in mind have little profanity or violence. Games based on such movies are among the top Xbox 360 games for children of all ages.
18. THQ Puss In Boots
The Puss in Boots game for Xbox 360 is an entertaining game featuring all the main characters of the movie. Available in the Kinect version, it requires physical actions, where you use the motion controls as fighting moves by Puss. You can also engage in silly actions like freezing, jumping, and striking dance poses during a battle, just like Puss would do.
Specifications
- Release date: October 25, 2011
- IGN score: NR
- Genre: Action, arcade, family
- Suitable for: E-for-Everyone rating
- Also available on: PS3, Nintendo DS and Wii
Pros
- Encourages physical activity
- Detailed, vivid graphics
- Fun and easy to play
- Includes challenging mini games
Cons
- Gameplay may be shorter than expected
- May glitch occasionally
19. Warner Bros. Games Lego Harry Potter: Years 5-7
The Harry Potter series is a fan favorite, making the Lego Harry Potter game for Xbox 360 a great addition to any game collection. A sequel to the first game, this covers the last two years of Harry’s schooling at Hogwarts. Players learn to use charms and spells, including the dangerous Unforgivable Curses as they prepare to duel with the Dark Lord Voldemort in the final battle. Here is a video review to give you a better understanding of the game.
Specifications
- Release date: November 11, 2011
- IGN score: 8
- Genre: Action/Adventure
- Suitable for: Ages 10+
- Also available on: Wii, PlayStation 3, Nintendo 3DS, PSP, PS Vita, macOS, Nintendo DS, Android, PC
Pros
- Over 80 beloved characters to unlock
- Has 24 story-based events
- Visually appealing graphics with an interesting storyline
- Includes split-screen feature for multiplayer mode
Cons
- Gameplay may be shorter than expected
- May not have an online mode
Xbox 360 Puzzle Games For Kids
20. Ubisoft Bejeweled 3
A simple puzzle game, Bejeweled has been enthralling players for years and is now available for Xbox 360. It has several levels that grow in complexity and trophies you can win as you conquer the levels. You have two style options to choose from based on your preference. The vibrant colors and pleasant sounds make this an engaging game to play.
Specifications
- Release date: December 7, 2010
- IGN score: 8
- Genre: Puzzle
- Suitable for: Ages 10+ years
- Also available on: Nintendo DS, PlayStation 3, PC, macOS
Pros
- Fun and easy to play
- Includes eight game modes
- Enhances logical thinking
- Has a global ranking system
Cons
- Conquering levels may become a bit too addictive
- May be a bit repetitive
21. Stacking
Based on the Russian nesting dolls, Stacking is a brilliantly designed game to encourage kids to use logic and common sense to complete missions.
- Great graphics, exquisitely designed stacking dolls and intuitive controls make the game visually appealing and exciting.
- Players have to don the role of a Russian stacking doll and embark on a mission to end child labor.
- Players have to solve puzzles to move up levels, and may have to use strengths of other stacking dolls through cooperative play to defeat enemies.
- Children can easily play this with basic tips and hints that pop up during the game.
- This cooperative multiplayer game has some amount of violence but without any gory details.
Release date: February 8, 2011
IGN Score: 8.5
Genre: Puzzle
Suitable for: Ages 10+
Also available on: PS3, Mac OS, Microsoft Windows and Linux
22. Square Enix Quantum Conundrum
An interesting combination of science and fun, Quantum Conundrum is a puzzle game that encourages children to use their logical thinking abilities to score points. This physics-based video game has challenging puzzles, and players are required to shift between dimensions using the different laws of physics. The game is based in the house of a brilliant scientist, and the different rooms act as different levels of the game.
Specifications
- Release date: June 21, 2012
- IGN score: 8
- Genre: Puzzle, strategy
- Suitable for: Ages 10+ years
- Also available on: PlayStation 3, PC
Pros
- Problem-solving game
- Teaches basic concepts of physics
- Engaging graphics
- Smooth gameplay
Cons
- Some puzzles may be a bit complicated
23. Microsoft Studios Braid
Braid is an interactive, immersive game that challenges children’s problem solving and logical thinking abilities. With a number of puzzles to be solved, the game lets you travel between worlds and manipulate time as you progress on your quest to rescue the princess who has been abducted by an unknown monster. It has a non-linear gameplay that helps pose questions about the consequences of manipulating time.
Specifications
- Release date: August 6, 2008
- IGN score: 5
- Genre: Puzzle, platformer
- Suitable for: Ages 10+ years
- Also available on: PlayStation 3, Xbox One, iOS, PC, macOS, Linux
Pros
- Time-based gameplay
- Artistic, painting-life graphics and organic soundtrack
- Challenging puzzles
- Encourages out-of-the-box thinking
Cons
- Does not have a multiplayer mode
- Some puzzles may be a bit confusing
How To Choose The Right Xbox 360 Games For Kids?
Here are a few guidelines to help you find a suitable Xbox 360 game for your child.
- Age range: Consider the suggested age range of the game to determine if it is suitable for your child. Most Xbox games will have an age rating on the box. It’s important to choose a game that is appropriate for your child’s age for easy understanding.
- Interests: Choose a game that your child will enjoy playing. If they’re not interested in the subject matter, they’re not likely to play it for very long. It’s helpful to ask them what kind of games they like to choose accordingly.
- Multiplayer options: If your child enjoys playing with friends or siblings, look for games that offer multiplayer options. This helps them engage in cooperative or competitive play and encourages healthy social interaction.
- Reviews: Check out reviews by other parents and experts to get an idea of which games are worth it. You will get a better understanding of the content and strategy to ensure it is suitable for your child.
Xbox 360 Overview
Microsoft launched the second variant of the Xbox, the Xbox 360 in November 2005. The gaming console is a combination of a media system, which can be used to watch movies and TV shows, and a gaming console. The high-end version of the Xbox 360 comes with 500GB capacity, allowing you to store hundreds of your favorite games in it. Other features of the console include:
- Live multiplayer gaming
- Gaming with Kinect, the motion sensor for Xbox devices
- Wireless streaming of media
Microsoft also allows download of games directly to the gaming console, through its Xbox Game Store.
Kinect For Xbox 360
Kinect is Microsoft’s motion-sensing technology.
- You can buy it as an add-on with the Xbox 360 and enjoy the interactive user experience.
- The device detects the presence, movements, and voice commands of the players directly in front of it.
- The technology enables players to experience gaming without having to use any controllers or headsets.
- Sometimes, players may have to use simulation devices like guitars, rackets or other controllers for enhanced experience with the Xbox 360 Kinect.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Shreya Vishwanathan is an experienced content writer with impeccable research skills. Her interest lies in the field of toys, games, and gifts to keep your child engaged through the day. She brings you this list of the best Xbox 360 games for kids to provide them with wholesome entertainment. She has curated this list after paying attention to every aspect of each game to help you make the right choice when buying one of these for your child.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is an Xbox 360 suitable for a six-year-old?
Yes, Xbox one is suitable for six-year-olds to play, as this version has different game themes for kids of ages below eight years and is age-appropriate.
2. What family games are on Xbox 360?
Some of the best family-friendly Xbox 360 games include LEGO Games, Rocket League, Rayman Legends, Forager, and TowerFall Ascension.
3. How many games are on Xbox 360?
The total number of games on Xbox 360 is 2154 games.
4. What was the last game for Xbox 360?
The last game for Xbox 360 is Just Dance 2019, which was released on October 23rd, 2018.
5. Why won’t my Xbox 360 play original Xbox games?
Xbox 360 is backward compatible with original Xbox games. However, the Xbox 360 uses a different partition in the hard drive to make it compatible with the Xbox original. So, if there is any hard drive replacement or malfunction, it may cause compatibility issues.
6. What is the best Xbox 360 game?
Xbox has hundreds of interesting games that cater to different audiences. The list of games mentioned above includes some of the best Xbox 360 games for kids. You can pick up Xbox games for kids under 12 based on the age recommendations for the game.
7. What is the difference between Xbox 360 and Xbox one?
The Xbox 360 is the second of the Xbox series of consoles, while the Xbox One is its successor. As the latest in the series, the Xbox One has faster processing capabilities, better graphics, and higher storage capacity as compared to the Xbox 360.
8. How much does an Xbox 360 cost?
Microsoft stopped production of the Xbox 360 in April 2016. The cost of the Xbox 360 in the market depends on the retailer.
9. How much is a used Xbox 360?
The price of a used Xbox 360 depends on its condition, the storage capacity, the titles in the system bundle, year of make, and additional components such as controllers or simulation devices that are offered with it.
10. How much is an Xbox 360 controller?
The prices of Xbox 360 controllers vary from seller to seller.
The Bottom Line
Xbox 360 games are a hit among children and adults alike. With various gaming categories—from sports and racing games to worldbuilding and educational games—the game you pick for your child should interest them, be challenging enough to keep them engaged, and be age-appropriate. Playing Xbox games is also a great way to interact with your children and spend quality time with them. Our top picks include the Warner Bros. Games Lego Jurassic World for its customizable options and player modes, the Rockstar North Grand Theft Auto V for its engaging inter-related story, and the Sega Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed for its multi-course gaming experience and creative graphics. However, while these Xbox 360 games will make you and your little one happy, ensure they play the games in moderation and spend time outdoors as well.
Infographic: Things To Consider When Choosing A Xbox 360 Games For Children
Choosing the appropriate Xbox 360 games is essential to make gaming sessions safe yet intriguing, fun, and educational. The options may seem endless, but the infographic lists some points to consider when choosing an Xbox 360 game to help you narrow the choices.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
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