Video Games for Middle-Graders: Educational and Entertaining Picks

Parents have legitimate concerns about video games eating into their kid's daily routines, to the point of them becoming a distraction or counter-productive to learning.

As many of us will reluctantly admit, we often give our children permission to play games as a reward and/or as motivation to improve our child's behavior, like keeping them quiet or occupied while at a restaurant or when traveling.

This parenting technique has a greater payoff and creates less apprehension for the parent if the games we allow our kids to spend time with are both educational and entertaining at the same time.

Just in time for the holiday season, let's explore some of the best titles around that will likely please parents and middle graders alike.

1. "Minecraft": Building Creativity and Problem-Solving Skills

"Minecraft" is a sandbox game that encourages creativity, problem-solving, and exploration. Middle-graders can craft their own worlds, build structures, and even collaborate with friends in a shared virtual space. It's a game that promotes critical thinking, resource management, and teamwork, all while having a blast.

2. "Kerbal Space Program": Learning Physics Through Space Exploration

"Kerbal Space Program" is a space simulation game that allows players to design and launch spacecraft into orbit and beyond. While it's highly entertaining, it also provides a hands-on way for middle-graders to learn about physics, engineering, and orbital mechanics. It encourages experimentation and problem-solving in a fun and engaging manner.

 

 

 

 

 

3. "Undertale": Teaching Empathy and Decision-Making

"Undertale" is an indie RPG that explores themes of empathy and choice. Players navigate a world inhabited by monsters and can choose to befriend or fight them. The game challenges middle-graders to think about the consequences of their actions and emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding in decision-making.

 

 

 

 

4. "Zoombinis": Logical Puzzles for Critical Thinking

"Zoombinis" is a puzzle game designed to boost critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Players guide small creatures through a series of logical challenges, encouraging them to use deductive reasoning and pattern recognition. It's an excellent choice for middle-graders looking to exercise their brains while having fun.

5. "Scribblenauts": Expanding Vocabulary and Creativity

"Scribblenauts" is a puzzle game that encourages creativity and expands vocabulary. Players can summon objects by typing their names, allowing them to solve puzzles in imaginative ways. The game is not only entertaining but also an excellent tool for language development and creative thinking.

6. "Spore": Evolution and Biology Exploration

"Spore" is a simulation game that takes players on an evolutionary journey, starting as a single-celled organism and progressing through various stages of evolution. It introduces middle-graders to concepts of biology, adaptation, and evolution in a visually engaging and interactive manner.

7. "The Oregon Trail": Historical Learning Through Simulation

"The Oregon Trail" is a classic educational game that simulates the journey of pioneers in the 19th century. It offers middle-graders a glimpse into history as they make decisions about supplies, navigate challenges, and learn about life on the Oregon Trail. It combines history education with gaming fun.

8. "Civilization VI": Strategy and World History

"Civilization VI" is a strategy game that lets players build and manage their own civilization. It introduces middle-graders to world history, diplomacy, and critical decision-making as they guide their civilization from ancient times to the modern era. It's a game that fosters strategic thinking and historical awareness.

 

 

 

 

9. "LittleBigPlanet": Creativity and Game Design

"LittleBigPlanet" is a platformer that not only lets players explore imaginative worlds but also create their own levels and games. It encourages middle-graders to use their creativity and problem-solving skills to design and share their creations with others, fostering an interest in game design and development.

 

 

 

 

10. "Oxenfree": A Supernatural Adventure with Narrative Depth

"Oxenfree" is an adventure game that blends supernatural elements with a gripping narrative. Players take on the role of a teenager named Alex, and as they make choices in the game, they shape the story's outcome. This game not only engages middle-graders with its intriguing plot but also challenges them to think critically about their choices and their consequences.

In conclusion, video games for middle-graders have come a long way in offering both entertainment and educational value. These games engage young minds, promote critical thinking, and even teach valuable life skills—all while providing hours of enjoyment. Parents and educators can confidently explore these educational and entertaining video game options, knowing that they can have a positive impact on a middle-grader's cognitive development and entertainment experience.