If you’re new to video games and looking for titles that are beginner-friendly, here are 11 great options that will help you ease into gaming while offering fun, engaging experiences.
1. Super Mario Odyssey (Nintendo Switch)
- Genre: Platformer, Adventure
- Why it’s great: Super Mario Odyssey is easy to pick up and play with simple controls, bright visuals, and an open-world feel. The levels are varied and forgiving, making it a perfect introduction for newcomers.
2. Stardew Valley (PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch)
- Genre: Simulation, RPG
- Why it’s great: If you prefer relaxing games, Stardew Valley offers a peaceful farming and life-simulation experience. There’s no rush, and you can enjoy everything from planting crops to befriending villagers.
3. Minecraft (PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch)
- Genre: Sandbox, Adventure
- Why it’s great: Minecraft lets you explore, build, and survive at your own pace. Its blocky graphics are simple, and the gameplay is easy to understand, making it ideal for beginners.
4. Animal Crossing: New Horizons (Nintendo Switch)
- Genre: Life Simulation
- Why it’s great: Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a low-stress, charming game where you create your dream island. It’s perfect for beginners due to its easy-going pace and the ability to play casually.
5. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (Nintendo Switch)
- Genre: Racing
- Why it’s great: Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is easy to pick up with its simple controls and fun, colorful tracks. Whether you’re playing solo or with friends, it’s great for anyone new to racing games.
6. The Sims 4 (PC, PlayStation, Xbox)
- Genre: Life Simulation
- Why it’s great: In The Sims 4, you control the lives of virtual people. The game is very approachable and offers endless creativity with minimal pressure, perfect for beginners who enjoy storytelling.
7. Overcooked! 2 (PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch)
- Genre: Party, Simulation
- Why it’s great: Overcooked! 2 is a cooperative cooking game where you and friends can have a blast preparing meals in chaotic kitchens. The gameplay is simple to understand but challenging and fun for new players.
8. Celeste (PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch)
- Genre: Platformer
- Why it’s great: Celeste is an emotionally gripping platformer with precise controls. It’s challenging but offers easy-to-learn mechanics and gives players the option to adjust the difficulty.
9. Portal 2 (PC, PlayStation, Xbox)
- Genre: Puzzle, Adventure
- Why it’s great: With a compelling story and clever puzzles, Portal 2 provides both mental challenge and an easy-to-understand premise. The game’s mechanics are simple but rewarding.
10. Luigi’s Mansion 3 (Nintendo Switch)
- Genre: Action, Adventure
- Why it’s great: Luigi’s Mansion 3 is a light-hearted, easy-to-play game with simple controls and a fun, spooky theme. The puzzles are engaging without being overwhelming, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
11. Tetris Effect (PC, PlayStation, Xbox)
- Genre: Puzzle
- Why it’s great: The classic puzzle game Tetris is accessible for new players, and Tetris Effect enhances the experience with stunning visuals and better music. It’s easy to learn, and you’ll get hooked on the gameplay.
Conclusion:
These 11 games are perfect for beginners because they are approachable, forgiving, and enjoyable, with easy-to-learn mechanics. Whether you enjoy platformers, simulation games, racing, or puzzles, there’s a game on this list for every type of gamer. They all provide a great starting point to indulge yourself in the world of gaming!