Engaged Family Gaming Holiday Engaged Family Gaming Holiday

The holidays are coming up fast and if you’re like me, you still have no idea what to get your friends and family. Well, never fear, because I’ve put together the Official Engaged Family Gaming Holiday Gift Guide! This guide is packed full of video games that will make any gamer happy. Whether your loved one is a seasoned pro or just starting out in the gaming world, I’ve got you covered. So sit back, relax, and let me help you find the perfect gift for the gamers in your life!

The EFG Holiday Gift Guide For Video Games

Below are recommendations for video games across all three major consoles.

Nintendo

Discover the magic of gaming on the go with the Nintendo Switch! This versatile console, beloved by families worldwide, offers a fresh wave of titles this year, perfect for both home and on-the-move play. Whether you’re diving into enchanting worlds, or solving intriguing puzzles, our recommended Switch games for 2023 are sure to delight players of all ages.

Metroid Prime: Remastered

  • Release date: May 26, 2023
  • Platform: Nintendo Switch
  • Publisher: Nintendo
  • MSRP: $39.99 USD (you can purchase this on Amazon here.)
  • ESRB rating: T (Teen)

Metroid Prime: Remastered is the perfect escape this holiday season! With enhanced visuals, textures, and lighting, as well as modernized controls and gameplay, it’s a treat for both new gamers and anyone with nostalgia for the GameCube era! 

Embark on an adventure with the renowned bounty hunter Samus Aran as she unravels the mysteries of planet Tallon IV and thwarts the Space Pirates from wielding the Chozo Artifact, a formidable force that threatens the cosmos!

Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or new to the Metroid universe, Metroid Prime: Remastered promises hours of immersive gameplay and a captivating narrative. It’s the ideal gift for those looking to lose themselves in a visually spectacular and thrilling world this holiday season.



Bluey: The Video Game

  • Release date: November 17, 2023
  • Platform: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, and PC
  • Publisher: Outright Games
  • MSRP: $39.99 USD (Buy it on Amazon Here)
  • ESRB rating: Everyone

Delve into Bluey’s whimsical world in this family-friendly sandbox game. Explore iconic scenes, including Bluey’s home, in an interactive adventure filled with fun activities drawn from the show and a new storyline created alongside Artax Games and BBC Studios. With a four-player mode, take on the roles of Bluey, Bingo, Mum, and Dad, and enjoy mini-games like ‘Keepy Uppy’ and ‘Magic Xylophone.’ This is a delightful holiday gift for families seeking playful adventures together.

Kirby’s Return to Dream Land Deluxe

  • Release date: February 24, 2023
  • Platform: Nintendo Switch
  • Publisher: Nintendo
  • MSRP: $59.99 USD (You can buy it on Amazon here.)
  • ESRB rating: E10+ (Everyone 10+)

Looking for the perfect holiday gift for your young gamer? Dive into the whimsical world of Kirby’s Return to Dream Land Deluxe! This revamped version of the beloved Wii game, Kirby: Return to Dreamland, has enhanced graphics and updated gameplay controls, making it even more delightful for today’s generation.

Your child (or YOU!) will embark on an enchanting adventure as Kirby, the adorable pink sphere (I dunno, Is he a ball? A puff?  We can just go with it) with the unique ability to mimic his foes’ powers. Alongside Kirby are his trusty pals, King Dedede, Meta Knight, and Bandana Waddle Dee, as they join forces to assist a mysterious alien. 

Not only is Kirby’s Return to Dream Land Deluxe a vibrant and easy-to-play platformer suitable for kids and parents alike, but it also introduces a fresh character, Magolor, for added fun. Plus, the “Merry Magoland” mode offers a delightful assortment of minigames and challenges, ensuring hours of entertainment. Make this festive season memorable with a game that’s bound to be a hit!

WarioWare: Move it!

  • Release Date: November 3rd, 2023
  • Platform: Nintendo Switch
  • Publisher: Nintendo
  • MSRP: $49.99 (You can buy it on Amazon here.)
  • ESRB Rating: ESRB 10+

Dive into the hilarity with “WarioWare: Move It!” this holiday season. It’s an ideal pick for family game nights, offering over 200 quick and quirky microgames that prompt players to shake, dance, and laugh together. Simple enough for all ages, it’s a game that gets everyone off the couch and into a fit of giggles with its rapid-fire, silly challenges.

The game’s lightning-fast pace ensures that everyone gets a turn quickly, making it perfect for lively parties. The sheer variety of activities, from mimicking a curtsey to virtual jailbreaks, guarantees a fresh experience every time.

“WarioWare: Move It!” is the gift of endless fun and togetherness for families, a delightful addition to any holiday celebration.

Octopath Traveller 2

Octopath Traveler night time
  • Release date: February 24, 2023
  • Platform: Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5
  • Publisher: Square Enix
  • MSRP: $59.99 USD (You can buy it on Amazon here.)
  • ESRB rating: Teen

Dive into the magical world of Solistia with Octopath Traveler II. This T-rated role-playing game lets players pick from eight enchanting characters, each boasting their own special tale and skills. Journey together through mesmerizing landscapes, tackle challenges in strategic turn-based battles, and get lost in the game’s stunning HD-2D visuals and heartwarming melodies.

Octopath Traveler II is a delightful pick for families who love immersive stories and bonding over game nights. A treasure trove of adventures awaits!

Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

  • Release date: May 12, 2023
  • Platform: Nintendo Switch
  • Publisher: Nintendo
  • MSRP: $59.99 USD (You can buy it on Amazon here.)
  • ESRB rating: Teen

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is the sequel to the critically acclaimed Breath of the Wild. It takes place in the same world of Hyrule, but with a new story and new gameplay mechanics. Players will take on the role of Link once again. This time you get to use a whole new set of powers including Fuse that lets you combine objects in the world together and ultrahand that lets you build everything from vehicles to platforms!

This is one of our favorite games this year and will be a great gift to put under the tree for any fan looking for an adventure!

Super Mario Bros. Wonder

  • Release date: October 20, 2023
  • Platform: Nintendo Switch
  • Publisher: Nintendo
  • MSRP: $59.99 USD (You can buy it on Amazon here.)
  • ESRB rating: Everyone

Super Mario Bros. Wonder is a return to form for the Super Mario series, featuring classic 2D platforming gameplay with new twists and surprises. Players can choose between Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and a host of other characters as they travel through the Flower Kingdom, and find new power-ups like the elephant fruit and Drill form.

Every stage has a Wonder seed that, when collected, changes the world for a brief period of time and changes the gameplay significantly. These events are unpredictable, exciting, and sometimes hilarious. 

Super Mario Bros. Wonder is the first brand-new 2D art style for Mario in the last decade and should definitely be on your shopping list this year!

Disney Illusion Island

  • Release date: July 28, 2023
  • Platform: Nintendo Switch
  • Publisher: Disney Interactive Media Group
  • MSRP: $39.98 USD (You can buy it on Amazon here.)
  • ESRB rating: Everyone

Disney Illusion Island is a cooperative platformer (We call them Matroidvania’s here) game in which players control Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and Goofy as they embark on an adventure to save the mysterious island of Monoth. Players can explore the island’s varied environments, solve puzzles, and battle enemies using a variety of platforming abilities. 

The game features hand-drawn animation, a fully orchestrated score, and authentic voice acting. In short? It’s a Disney cartoon come to life! It is a great way to experience the magic of Disney with your family this holiday season!

PlayStation

Sony-Playstation-logo

Step into the gaming future with PlayStation 5’s 2023 releases. Sony’s cutting-edge console continues to push boundaries, offering families a gateway to explore vibrant new worlds, face thrilling challenges, and immerse themselves in captivating narratives. With a curated selection of this year’s standout titles, the PS5 ensures that every gaming moment is unforgettable.

Sonic Superstars

  • Release date: October 17, 2023
  • Platform: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC
  • Publisher: Sega
  • MSRP: $59.99 USD (You can buy it on Amazon here.)
  • ESRB rating: Everyone

Looking for the perfect game to enjoy with your kids this holiday season? Dive into the world of “Sonic Superstars”! This game is a delightful tribute to the beloved Sonic the Hedgehog series, blending classic gameplay elements with fresh twists that will keep both new and seasoned players engaged.

Guide Sonic, Tails, Knuckles, or Amy as they dash through new levels that will hit you right in the nostalgia feels . Along the way, collect rings, tackle foes, and discover exciting power-ups. But here’s a special treat: as you journey, gather the elusive chaos gems to unlock incredible platforming powers that will elevate your gaming experience!

Whether you’re introducing your kids to the magic of Sonic or reliving cherished memories, “Sonic Superstars” promises hours of fun and adventure. It’s the ideal blend of classic Sonic charm with a contemporary spin, making it a must-have for your holiday game collection.

Minecraft Legends

  • Release date: April 18th, 2023
  • Platform: (PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Switch, PC)
  • Publisher:Microsoft
  • MSRP: $29.99 (included on Game Pass)
  • ESRB rating: E 10+

Minecraft Legends is a new action-strategy game set in the Minecraft universe. Players lead an army of mobs to defend the Overworld from a piglin invasion. The game has the same voxel art style of the original Minecraft that we all know and love, but plays from a different perspective. The camera is higher up and farther back to give you a wider view of the world you are moving around and to make it easier to see your growing army. Minecraft Legends is a great choice for fans of Minecraft who are looking for a new challenge.

Disney SpeedStorm

  • Release date: April 18th, 2023
  • Platform: (PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Switch, PC)
  • Publisher: Gameloft
  • MSRP: Free to Play
  • ESRB rating: E

Disney SpeedStorm is a free-to-play kart racing game featuring characters from Disney and Pixar films. Players can race as Mickey Mouse, Lightning McQueen, and other iconic characters on tracks inspired by Disney and Pixar movies. Put simply, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe isn’t available on PS5 or Xbox, so this is one of the best alternatives, especially for Disney fans.

Octopath Traveller 2

  • Release date: February 24, 2023
  • Platform: Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5
  • Publisher: Square Enix
  • MSRP: $59.99 USD (You can buy it on Amazon here.)
  • ESRB rating: Teen

Dive into the magical world of Solistia with Octopath Traveler II. This T-rated role-playing game lets players pick from eight enchanting characters, each boasting their own special tale and skills. Journey together through mesmerizing landscapes, tackle challenges in strategic turn-based battles, and get lost in the game’s stunning HD-2D visuals and heartwarming melodies.

Octopath Traveler II is a delightful pick for families who love immersive stories and bonding over game nights. A treasure trove of adventures awaits!

Bluey: The Video Game

  • Release date: November 17, 2023
  • Platform: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, and PC
  • Publisher: Outright Games
  • MSRP: $39.99 USD (Buy it on Amazon Here)
  • ESRB rating: Everyone

Delve into Bluey’s whimsical world in this family-friendly sandbox game. Explore iconic scenes, including Bluey’s home, in an interactive adventure filled with fun activities drawn from the show and a new storyline created alongside Artax Games and BBC Studios. With a four-player mode, take on the roles of Bluey, Bingo, Mum, and Dad, and enjoy mini-games like ‘Keepy Uppy’ and ‘Magic Xylophone.’ This is a delightful holiday gift for families seeking playful adventures together.

Star Wars: Jedi Survivor

  • Release date: April 28, 2023
  • Platforms: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S
  • Publisher: Electronic Arts
  • MRSP: $69.99 USD (You can buy it on Amazon here.)
  • ESRB rating: Teen

Embark on an intergalactic journey with Star Wars Jedi: Survivor. This thrilling third-person action-adventure game is perfect for any Star Wars fan!

Join Cal Kestis, now a seasoned Jedi Knight, as he navigates the galaxy five years after the events of Fallen Order. Defend the galaxy from looming dark forces with his loyal droid BD-1 and intriguing new allies!

Street Fighter 6

  • Release date: June 2, 2023
  • Platforms: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
  • Publisher: Capcom
  • MRSP: $59.99 USD (You can buy it on Amazon here.)
  • ESRB rating: Teen

Get ready to unleash your inner fighter with Street Fighter 6! This latest installment in the iconic fighting game series promises an exhilarating experience for both newcomers and seasoned players. With a fresh art style that’s not only eye-catching but also ensures clarity during intense battles, it’s a visual treat for all.

The game introduces the innovative Drive System, a gameplay mechanic that offers players enhanced control over their moves, both offensively and defensively. Reunite with beloved characters like Ryu, Chun-Li, Guile, and Ken, and meet intriguing newcomers such as Luke and Jamie.

Baldur’s Gate 3

  • Release date: August 3, 2023
  • Platforms: Windows PC, Stadia
  • Publisher: Larian Studios
  • MSRP: $59.99 USD (You can buy it on Amazon here.)
  • ESRB rating: M for Mature 

Baldur’s Gate 3, rated M for mature, is ideal for grownups who cherish cooperative gaming. This Dungeons & Dragons-inspired RPG is set in the magical Forgotten Realms. Players craft their characters, tackle formidable evils, and encounter intriguing allies. The game promotes teamwork with its cooperative multiplayer, offering diverse character classes and races. Its combat is both challenging and rewarding, allowing players to merge abilities against foes. With an immersive story and adjustable difficulty levels, it’s a top pick for adult gaming enthusiasts.

Final Fantasy 16

  • Release date: June 22, 2023
  • Platforms: PlayStation 5
  • Publisher: Square Enix
  • MRSP: $69.99 USD (You can buy it on Amazon here.)
  • ESRB rating: Mature

Final Fantasy XVI is an action role-playing game set in the world of Valisthea, which is divided into six nations that each have a Mothercrystal that grants them magical power. The player controls Clive Rosfield, the firstborn son of the Archduke of Rosaria, one of the aforementioned nations as he journeys through the world discovering its secrets and coming to grips with what he has done.

Final Fantasy XVI is the first mainline Final Fantasy game to ever receive an M rating from the ESRB and it shows. There is a lot going on here that is not appropriate for kids in spite of the historically whimsical themes in FF games. 

Final Fantasy XVI is similarly the first mainline game in the series to feature action-based combat that is designed to be both fast-paced and strategic. 

Microsoft’s powerhouse console delivers not just in performance but in a diverse array of stories, adventures, and challenges this year. From cooperative quests to gripping solo journeys, our top picks for the Xbox Series X promise hours of unparalleled entertainment. Many of these games are included in Xbox Game Pass which is an amazing value!

Xbox Game Pass

The Xbox Game Pass is a game-changer for families who love gaming together. With a single subscription, you gain access to a vast library of over 100 high-quality games, spanning various genres suitable for both kids and adults. Whether you’re in the mood for an adventurous quest, a puzzling challenge, or a co-op mission, Xbox Game Pass has something for everyone.

Why It’s Perfect for Families

Variety of Games: From family-friendly titles like “Minecraft” and “Forza Horizon” to more mature games for older kids and parents, there’s a game for every member of the family.

Cost-Effective: Instead of purchasing individual games, Xbox Game Pass offers an affordable monthly subscription, giving you unlimited access to a continually updated library.

Exclusive Access: Get early access to Xbox Game Studios titles on the day they release. No more waiting or additional purchases required!

Gift Tip

Pair the Xbox Game Pass subscription with an Xbox controller for the ultimate gaming gift bundle. If the family doesn’t have an Xbox console yet, consider the Xbox Series S – a compact, digital-only console that’s perfect for families.

Minecraft Legends

  • Release date: April 18th, 2023
  • Platform: (PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Switch, PC)
  • Publisher: Microsoft
  • MSRP: $29.99 (included on Game Pass)
  • ESRB rating: E 10+

Minecraft Legends is a new action-strategy game set in the Minecraft universe. Players lead an army of mobs to defend the Overworld from a piglin invasion. The game has the same voxel art style of the original Minecraft that we all know and love, but plays from a different perspective. The camera is higher up and farther back to give you a wider view of the world you are moving around and to make it easier to see your growing army. Minecraft Legends is a great choice for fans of Minecraft who are looking for a new challenge.

Bluey: The Video Game

  • Release date: November 17, 2023
  • Platform: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, and PC
  • Publisher: Outright Games
  • MSRP: $39.99 USD (Buy it on Amazon Here)
  • ESRB rating: Everyone

Delve into Bluey’s whimsical world in this family-friendly sandbox game. Explore iconic scenes, including Bluey’s home, in an interactive adventure filled with fun activities drawn from the show and a new storyline created alongside Artax Games and BBC Studios. With a four-player mode, take on the roles of Bluey, Bingo, Mum, and Dad, and enjoy mini-games like ‘Keepy Uppy’ and ‘Magic Xylophone.’ This is a delightful holiday gift for families seeking playful adventures together.

Disney SpeedStorm

  • Release date: April 18th, 2023
  • Platform: (PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Switch, PC)
  • Publisher: Gameloft
  • MSRP: Free to Play
  • ESRB rating: E

Disney SpeedStorm is a free-to-play kart racing game featuring characters from Disney and Pixar films. Players can race as Mickey Mouse, Lightning McQueen, and other iconic characters on tracks inspired by Disney and Pixar movies. Put simply, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe isn’t available on PS5 or Xbox, so this is one of the best alternatives, especially for Disney fans.

Hi-Fi Rush

  • Release date: January 25, 2023
  • Platforms: Microsoft Windows, Xbox Series X/S
  • Publisher: Bethesda Softworks
  • MRSP: $39.98 USD (You can buy it on Amazon here.)
  • ESRB rating: Teen

Hi-Fi Rush is a rhythm-based action game developed by Tango Gameworks and published by Bethesda Softworks. It was released for Microsoft Windows and Xbox Series X/S on January 25, 2023.

In Hi-Fi Rush, players control Chai, a wannabe rockstar who has a music player accidentally embedded in his chest. This gives him the ability to perceive the world through rhythm and fight enemies to the beat of the music.

The game features a variety of different levels, each with its own unique soundtrack. Players must use Chai’s different abilities to attack enemies, dodge obstacles, and complete puzzles. The game also features a boss fight at the end of each level.

Hi-Fi Rush is a fun and challenging game that is perfect for fans of rhythm games and action games alike. It features a unique art style, catchy music, and satisfying combat.

Star Wars: Jedi Survivor

  • Release date: April 28, 2023
  • Platforms: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S
  • Publisher: Electronic Arts
  • MRSP: $69.99 USD (You can buy it on Amazon here.)
  • ESRB rating: Teen

Embark on an intergalactic journey with Star Wars Jedi: Survivor. This thrilling third-person action-adventure game is perfect for any Star Wars fan!

Join Cal Kestis, now a seasoned Jedi Knight, as he navigates the galaxy five years after the events of Fallen Order. Defend the galaxy from looming dark forces with his loyal droid BD-1 and intriguing new allies!

Street Fighter 6

  • Release date: June 2, 2023
  • Platforms: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
  • Publisher: Capcom
  • MRSP: $59.99 USD (You can buy it on Amazon here.)
  • ESRB rating: Teen

Get ready to unleash your inner fighter with Street Fighter 6! This latest installment in the iconic fighting game series promises an exhilarating experience for both newcomers and seasoned players. With a fresh art style that’s not only eye-catching but also ensures clarity during intense battles, it’s a visual treat for all.

The game introduces the innovative Drive System, a gameplay mechanic that offers players enhanced control over their moves, both offensively and defensively. Reunite with beloved characters like Ryu, Chun-Li, Guile, and Ken, and meet intriguing newcomers such as Luke and Jamie.

Party Animals

  • Release date: September 20, 2023
  • Platforms: Microsoft Windows, Xbox Series X/S
  • Publisher: Source Technology
  • MRSP: $29.99 USD (You can buy it on Amazon here.)
  • ESRB rating: Everyone 10+

Party Animals is a physics-based multiplayer party game players control one of several different animal characters and compete in a variety of different mini-games. The game features a variety of different maps, including a kitchen, a construction site, and a nightclub.

The mini-games in Party Animals are all designed to be chaotic and unpredictable. Players must use their animal’s unique abilities to complete the mini-games and win the round. The game also features a variety of different power-ups that players can use to gain an advantage over their opponents.

Party Animals is a fun and challenging game that is perfect for playing with friends. It is a great way to relax and have some laughs.

Starfield

  • Release date: September 6, 2023
  • Platforms: Windows, Xbox Series X/S
  • Publisher: Bethesda Softworks
  • MRSP: $69.99 USD (You can buy it on Amazon here.)
  • ESRB rating: Teen

Starfield, the latest masterpiece from Bethesda Game Studios is the perfect gift for families who love diving into new adventures together.

For the first time in 25 years, Bethesda has crafted an entirely new universe. Set in the distant future of 2330, Starfield invites players to journey through a vast open galaxy, brimming with uncharted worlds and endless possibilities.

Starfield promises to captivate both role-playing enthusiasts and sci-fi aficionados. This holiday season, let your loved ones embark on an interstellar journey they won’t forget.


What do you think? Sound off in the comments and let us know your thoughts!

Make sure to keep your eyes on Engaged Family Gaming for all of the latest news and reviews you need to Get Your Family Game On!

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By Stephen Duetzmann

Editor in Chief Founder/EiC EngagedFamilyGaming.com Blogger, Podcaster, Video Host RE: games that families can play together. Editor@engagedfamilygaming.com

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