It is no secret that video games can offer benefits to kids and especially for girls.
Video games can provide a fun and social form of entertainment. They increase your daughter’s self-confidence as they master games and encourage teamwork when played with friends and family. Video games also make kids feel comfortable with technology—particularly important for girls, who, statistically, don’t use technology as much as boys.
Unfortunately, products geared toward pre-teen and teen males dominate the gaming market. The young female audience must often settle for low-quality, third tier studio productions. These titles generally lack in every aspect of what makes a good videogame. Barbie games published by “Activision value” make good examples for low quality games.
When choosing a video game for girls, think about your children’s interests. We have yet to meet a young girl who does not like animals – which makes it a good area to start. Most girls enjoy games that require strategy and problem solving skills. By the way: Boys tend to look for games that let them feel powerful and in control, which is the reason for the massive amout of violent action games on the market. Last but not least, talk to other parents for suggestions and advice or send us an email, Thomas and I will help you personally.
Below are suggestions of games (sorted by platform) your girls may enjoy. Not sure what system to buy? Check out our Handheld and Console video game Guide.
Nintendo Wii:
Cooking Mama (6+) is a charming collection of cooking themed minigames. The main objective of the game is to chop, cut, boil, stir, mix and cook a variety of different meals from around the world. Hannah Montana (7+) Spotlight World Tour is played by performing (acting out) various moves with the Motion-Sensing Wii Remote and Nunchuck attachment. The player’s moves must be timed and matched to icons scrolling on the lower part of the screen. (Think Dance Dance Revolution – only with your hands instead with your feet). My Sims (8+) is a construction game (think virtual Lego’s), in which the Player must build houses, furniture, appliances and other items to help a small town get back on its feet. Older girls may enjoy Trauma Center (12+). The game uses the Nunchuck and Wii Remote to perform surgery and other medical tasks.
Nintendo DS:
Nintendogs (7+), Pony Friends (7+), High School Musical (8+) and Zoo Hospital (9+) are some of the games I played and recommend for young girls. Oh and don’t forget that the DS Light comes now in pink…
Sony PlayStation 2 (PS2):
Dora the Explorer : Journey to the Purple Planet (5+) has been released a while ago. However, I still recommend the game for boys and girls. It proves that an educational game can be a lot of fun. In my opinion it is a must have in every “Preschool” gaming collection. The Sims 2 (8+) The Sims is an award winning virtual living simulation game. “Sims 2: Pets” gives your Sims the chance to raise & care for a pet! SingStar Pop (10+) is a karaoke game, featuring 30 songs and 6 medleys from some of the world’s most popular artists. Beyond the traditional lyrics-at-the-bottom of the screen, this karaoke game also uses pitch and timing bars.
PC/Mac:
Viva Pinata (7+), and Zoo Tycoon 2 (7+) are great choices.
e-play Toys: Toys that come with access to a virtual world
Webkinz (7+) come with a special code on their labels that allows access to the “Webkinz World” website. Here the player can “adopt” a virtual version of the pet. Be-Bratz (8+) - As we all know, life is about looking good and wearing fancy dresses; Be-Bratz does not disappoint there. Boutiques, Shoe Store, Salon, Food Court and a Home Décor Store will have your girls dress and style their avatar. Barbie Girls MP3 (8+) The USB device unlocks special content at BarbieGirls.com and also works as portable MP3 Player.
Microsoft Xbox360:
Viva Pinata (7+), - Viva Pinata’s unmatched charm will appeal to kids and adults. Adorable characters coupled with solid gameplay make this title a must have for everyone. DanceDanceRevolution (8+) is a true classic. This game will get your girls up and moving.
Sony PlayStation 3 (PS3):
We are still waiting for a PS3 video game for girls. Buy the 80Gig PS3, it is at least backward compatible with PS2 Games