Top PlayStation Family Games for Game Night
For most families, Sackboy: A Big Adventure is the top pick. It offers charming 3D platforming with up to four players. Kids love the colorful world, while parents enjoy the clever level design. Its main limitation is that younger children may find some levels challenging.
Finding a game the whole family can enjoy on PlayStation can be tricky. You want something easy to pick up but engaging for adults. You also need content that is appropriate for younger players.
We compared a bunch of popular family titles. Our focus was on co-op and party games that encourage teamwork and laughter. These picks work well for game nights with kids of different ages.
Before you buy
What we recommend
Sackboy: A Big Adventure
Sackboy is a delightful 3D platformer from the LittleBigPlanet universe. It supports up to four players locally, making it perfect for family co-op. The levels are imaginative, and the controls are accessible. Parents will appreciate the gentle difficulty curve and the lack of frustrating mechanics.
Pros
- Beautiful and charming visuals
- Great cooperative gameplay
- Varied and creative levels
Cons
- Some levels can be tricky for young kids
- Requires PlayStation Plus for online co-op
It Takes Two
It Takes Two is a brilliant co-op adventure designed for two players. It tells a story about a couple turned into dolls, but it is also a fantastic game for a parent and child. Each level introduces new mechanics, so it never feels repetitive. The game encourages communication and teamwork.
Pros
- Forces teamwork in creative ways
- Constantly changing gameplay
- Engaging story with humor
Cons
- Only two players
- Some themes may be more suitable for older kids
Minecraft
Minecraft needs no introduction. It is a sandbox game where you can build anything you imagine. Up to four players can play locally on a single screen, or more online. It is a fantastic way to spark creativity and collaboration. Parents can play alongside kids, exploring and building together.
Pros
- Unlimited creativity
- Educational and engaging
- Works well for all ages
Cons
- Survival mode may have mild combat
- Requires online subscription for online play
Overcooked! All You Can Eat
Overcooked is a frantic cooking game that tests coordination and teamwork. The All You Can Eat edition combines both original games and all DLC. Up to four players can play locally, which guarantees laughter and chaos. It is perfect for families who enjoy a challenge.
Pros
- Highly entertaining and funny
- Great for teamwork
- Lots of content
Cons
- Can get stressful and frustrating
- Some levels are quite hard
Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time
Crash Bandicoot is back with a brand new adventure. This is a classic platformer with modern polish. It offers a good challenge for older kids and parents who grew up with the original. The multiplayer mode allows two players to alternate, but it is mostly a single-player experience.
Pros
- Challenging and rewarding gameplay
- Great level design
- Humorous and stylish
Cons
- Very difficult for younger children
- Limited multiplayer
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
This is a PlayStation 5 exclusive that showcases the console’s power. Ratchet & Clank is a series known for fun shooting and platforming. Rift Apart is visually spectacular and has a heartwarming story. It is a great single-player game, but families can take turns playing.
Pros
- Incredible graphics
- Fun weapons and gameplay
- Accessible for all skill levels
Cons
- No local multiplayer
- Only for PS5
Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga
Lego games are known for being family friendly. This one covers all nine Star Wars saga films. Players can explore the galaxy and relive key moments. It supports two-player local co-op, so you can play with a partner. The puzzles are simple, and the humor is spot on.
Pros
- Huge amount of content
- Fun for Star Wars fans
- Easy and intuitive controls
Cons
- Some levels are repetitive
- No online multiplayer
How they compare
| # | Model | Platform | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sackboy: A Big Adventure | PS4, PS5 | Best overall family platformer | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | It Takes Two | PS4, PS5 | Best for two-player family co-op | 9.2 | Check price |
| 3 | Minecraft | PS4, PS5 | Best for creative building together | 9.0 | Check price |
| 4 | Overcooked! All You Can Eat | PS4, PS5 | Best chaotic party fun | 8.8 | Check price |
| 5 | Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time | PS4, PS5 | Best for nostalgic platforming | 8.6 | Check price |
| 6 | Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart | PS5 | Best for stunning visuals and action | 8.7 | Check price |
| 7 | Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga | PS4, PS5 | Best for Star Wars fans | 8.5 | Check price |
Common questions
Are these games suitable for young children?
Most of these games are rated E or E10+, meaning they are suitable for ages 10 and up. For younger children, games like Sackboy and Minecraft are generally safe. However, parents should review the content and gameplay to ensure it fits their child’s maturity.
Can we play these games together as a family?
Yes, many of these games support local co-op. Sackboy, It Takes Two, Overcooked, and Lego Star Wars allow multiple players on one console. Minecraft also supports up to four players locally. This makes them ideal for family game nights.
Do I need PlayStation Plus to play these games?
PlayStation Plus is only required for online multiplayer. If you are playing locally with family, you do not need it. However, for games like It Takes Two and Overcooked, if you want to play online with friends, you will need a subscription.
What is the best game for a family with kids of different ages?
Sackboy: A Big Adventure is often a great choice because it is accessible to younger players but still fun for adults. Minecraft also works well since it has no set goals and can be enjoyed at any pace. Both support multiple players.
Can these games be played on PlayStation 4?
Most of these games are available on both PS4 and PS5. However, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart is a PS5 exclusive. Check the specifications for each game to ensure compatibility with your console.
Are there any games with no violence at all?
Overcooked and Minecraft have no violence in the traditional sense. Minecraft has combat against monsters, but it is blocky and not graphic. Sackboy also has no violence; it involves platforming and solving puzzles.
How many players can play at the same time?
It depends on the game. Sackboy, Overcooked, and Minecraft support up to four players locally. It Takes Two is strictly two players. Lego Star Wars supports two players. Crash Bandicoot 4 allows two players to alternate, not simultaneous.
Which game offers the most replay value?
Minecraft offers nearly infinite replay due to its sandbox nature. Lego Star Wars has many collectibles and levels to revisit. Overcooked has many levels and challenges that encourage perfect scores, so it offers high replay value.
Are these games appropriate for adults?
Absolutely. Many family games are designed to appeal to all ages. It Takes Two has a story that resonates with adults, while Sackboy and Crash Bandicoot provide a good challenge. Adults can enjoy them as much as kids.
What if my child is not very experienced with video games?
Start with games that have simple controls and no time pressure. Minecraft has a peaceful mode. Sackboy has a gentle learning curve. Overcooked can be played at your own pace in practice mode. These are all good options for beginners.
The bottom line
If you want a game that everyone can enjoy together, pick Sackboy: A Big Adventure. It offers the best balance of fun, accessibility, and cooperative play. For older kids and parents, It Takes Two is an unforgettable two-player experience. But for a family with varied ages, Sackboy is the safest and most rewarding choice.
Marcus Chen
Marcus covered consumer electronics for enthusiast tech publications for six years before joining ChoiceCrest. He specializes in translating manufacturer spec sheets into plain-language buying advice, with a focus on audio, computing accessories and smart-home gear.
