Carnival Games
4.5Editor score
Variety of mini games
Family party friendly fun
Collectible tickets and outfits
In this guide
Finding the right games for children on the PlayStation 4 console can be a challenging task for parents. You want titles that are engaging and fun while remaining safe and appropriate for younger audiences to enjoy together.
We have carefully selected and ranked ten top picks based on popularity, gameplay variety, and overall reception. This list covers racing, platforming, and party games that offer excellent value and entertainment for families looking for PS4 options.
Each entry below details key features, ratings, and what makes it stand out. Please note that pricing and availability can change over time so always check the latest listings before making your final purchase decision.
Top 3 Picks for Best Kids Games for PS4
Sonic Frontiers
4.7Editor score
Massive open world exploration
Classic and modern gameplay styles
Deep combat and skill system
Sonic Superstars
4.7Editor score
Local co up for four players
Chaos Emerald power ups
Classic 2D platform action
Top 10 Best Kids Games for PS4 in 2026 Compared
This side-by-side comparison highlights the unique features and gameplay styles of each top rated title to help you find the perfect match for your family gaming needs.
ProductsSpecificationsEditor scorePrice
Best Budget
Monster Jam Steel Titans 2
38 real world trucks
Five new worlds explore
Authentic stadium modes
Physics improvements included
4.7Editor score
Editor's Choice
Sonic Forces
Three gameplay types
Custom hero character
Classic and modern Sonic
All star cast heroes
4.5Editor score
Best Premium
The Lego Movie 2 Video Game
Six new locations
Lots of collectibles
Movie adventure story
Brick building fun
4.4Editor score
Carnival Games
Mini games variety
Family party friendly
Ticket rewards system
Custom guest outfits
4.5Editor score
Sonic Frontiers
Five overworld islands
Cyber Space levels
Battle system upgrades
Mystery uncover adventure
4.7Editor score
Sonic Superstars
Local co-op up to 3
Chaos Emerald powers
Classic 2D action
Multiple playable characters
4.7Editor score
Team Sonic Racing
Online and local modes
Team racing mechanics
Vehicle customization
Adventure story mode
4.7Editor score
DreamWorks All-Star Kart Racing
DreamWorks characters
20 karts
Iconic movie locations
Split-screen multiplayer
4.4Editor score
Cars 3: Driven to Win
2 wheel driving
Stunts and tricks
Power up collection
Multiplayer racing
4.7Editor score
Nickelodeon Kart Racers
Nickelodeon series racers
24 slime tracks
Customizable karts
Co-op multiplayer
4.6Editor score
1. Sonic Frontiers – Best Overall Kids Games for PS4
Sonic Frontiers
Five overworld islands
Cyber Space levels
Battle system upgrades
Mystery uncover adventure
Sonic Frontiers is a high-rated title that brings fresh open world gameplay to the classic franchise. It holds a strong rating from players and stands out for its blend of exploration and speed.
Pros
- Open world exploration
- Classic 3D action
- Deep combat mechanics
- Large variety of levels
- Strong story mode
Cons
- Learning curve for new moves
- Some repetitive challenges
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The game allows kids to race across five massive overworld islands with unique challenges and secrets. It features Cyber Space levels for signature platforming and a new battle system with skill tree upgrades.
While the combat and exploration systems have some depth that might require practice, the variety keeps engagement high. The mix of puzzles and action ensures there is something for different skill levels.
This title is perfect for fans of platformers who want a bigger adventure. It is highly recommended for families looking for a substantial and engaging single player experience on PS4.
Explore Massive Islands
Kids can discover hidden secrets and side quests across five unique overworld islands.
Master New Combat
The new battle system combines dodges parries and combos to defeat robotic foes.
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2. Monster Jam Steel Titans 2 – Best Stunt Racing Games
Monster Jam Steel Titans 2
38 real world trucks
Five new worlds explore
Authentic stadium modes
Physics improvements included
Monster Jam Steel Titans 2 is a top choice for kids who love big trucks and stunts. It features 38 trucks from history and five new worlds to explore.
Pros
- Huge truck roster
- Authentic monster trucks
- Variety of game modes
- Stunt performance options
- Improved physics engine
Cons
- May appeal mostly to fans
- Limited story depth
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Players can compete in 12 authentic stadiums inspired by real shows. The game lets you perform favorite stunts like back flips and moonwalks with improved physics.
The variety of trucks and modes ensures plenty of replayability. While the story is simple the action packed gameplay keeps the excitement high for young players.
If your child enjoys vehicles and stunts this game is a must have. It offers a fun and interactive experience that captures the spirit of the Monster Jam shows.
38 Great Trucks
Choose from 38 trucks including Grave Digger and Higher Education for the ultimate fleet.
Perform Stunts
Execute moves like cyclones and power outs to earn extra points in races.
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3. Carnival Games – Best Budget Family Party Games
Carnival Games
Mini games variety
Family party friendly
Ticket rewards system
Custom guest outfits
Carnival Games offers a fun collection of mini games perfect for family gatherings. It has a great rating for its accessibility and replay value on a budget.
Pros
- Variety of mini games
- Great for parties
- Affordable price point
- Ticket rewards system
- Simple controls
Cons
- Graphics are dated
- Lacks online multiplayer
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The game bursts with exciting mini games you can play over and over. You can win tickets to trade in for new outfits for your characters.
While the graphics are not cutting edge the fun factor remains high. It is ideal for groups who want something casual and easy to pick up.
This is an excellent choice for a low cost family game night. It provides hours of entertainment without breaking the bank for parents.
Fun Mini Games
Enjoy a country fair style collection of games that everyone can play together.
Reward System
Win tickets to unlock new outfits and customize your carnival guest characters.
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4. Sonic Forces – Best Classic Modern Platforming Mix
Sonic Forces
Three gameplay types
Custom hero character
Classic and modern Sonic
All star cast heroes
Sonic Forces blends classic and modern gameplay into a cohesive experience. It is highly rated for its mix of fast paced action and custom character creation.
Pros
- Multiple gameplay styles
- Create custom hero
- Strong story arc
- Classic levels included
- Accessible difficulty
Cons
- Repetitive enemy patterns
- Limited open world
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Players can enjoy thrills as Classic Sonic or use gadgets as their own custom Hero Character. The game features a strong cast of franchise heroes and villains.
The three types of gameplay keep the experience fresh throughout. While the story is straightforward the variety of levels offers plenty of entertainment.
This title is perfect for those who want both nostalgia and new content. It is a solid pick for kids who enjoy platformers and character customization.
Create Your Hero
Design and play as your own custom Hero Character with unique gadgets.
Classic Levels
Experience thrilling platforming as Classic Sonic in iconic 2D levels.
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5. Team Sonic Racing – Best Team Racing Games
Team Sonic Racing
Online and local modes
Team racing mechanics
Vehicle customization
Adventure story mode
Team Sonic Racing focuses on cooperative gameplay with its unique team moves system. It is rated high for its depth and support for local and online play.
Pros
- Team racing mechanics
- Local split screen
- Online multiplayer
- Vehicle customization
- Adventure story
Cons
- Online lag issues
- Learning curve for team
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You can race with up to 12 players online or 4 players split screen. The team moves help assist teammates and knock out opponents effectively.
Customizing vehicle performance and appearance adds depth to the experience. While the team aspect takes practice it rewards cooperation and strategy.
This game is great for families who want to play together. It offers a unique twist on standard kart racers with strong team mechanics.
Team Moves
Use special team moves to assist teammates and knock out opponents during races.
Split Screen
Enjoy 4 player split screen local co-op for family fun.
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6. Sonic Superstars – Best Premium Co-Op Platformer
Sonic Superstars
Local co-op up to 3
Chaos Emerald powers
Classic 2D action
Multiple playable characters
Sonic Superstars brings a fresh spin to classic 2D platforming with new powers. It stands out for its local co-op support and classic gameplay feel.
Pros
- Local co-op for four
- Chaos Emerald powers
- Classic 2D platforming
- Multiple playable characters
- New spin on classic
Cons
- Requires patience for secrets
- Shorter campaign length
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Play as Sonic Tails Knuckles and Amy Rose using unique abilities to explore paths. The Chaos Emeralds give powers like swimming up waterfalls and changing form.
The local co-op allows up to three other players to join the fun. While the campaign is shorter the replay value in challenge modes is high.
This is a premium pick for fans of classic Sonic. It is perfect for families wanting a shared platforming experience with fresh twists.
Co-op Fun
Play with up to 3 other players in local co-op for shared adventures.
Chaos Powers
Use the Chaos Emeralds to multiply swim and change form.
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7. Cars 3: Driven to Win – Best Stunt Racing
Cars 3: Driven to Win
2 wheel driving
Stunts and tricks
Power up collection
Multiplayer racing
Cars 3: Driven to Win is a fun title for fans of the movie. It rates highly for its engaging stunt and trick gameplay systems.
Pros
- Stunt collection focus
- Familiar characters
- Training modes
- Multiplayer racing
- Power ups
Cons
- Limited tracks
- Simple graphics
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Train and advance your abilities in 2 wheel driving and barrel rolls. Collect and use power ups to eliminate crash karts and get the highest score.
The training modes prepare you to race against friends and Lightning McQueen. While the tracks are limited the focus on stunts keeps it lively.
This game is perfect for kids who love Cars and stunts. It offers a fun way to practice driving skills and score high.
Train Your Skills
Train your abilities in 2 wheel driving and barrel rolls.
Score High
Perform stunts and tricks to get the highest score possible.
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8. DreamWorks All-Star Kart Racing – Best Movie Franchise Racing
DreamWorks All-Star Kart Racing
DreamWorks characters
20 karts
Iconic movie locations
Split-screen multiplayer
DreamWorks All-Star Kart Racing brings beloved characters to the track. It has a solid rating for its family friendly cast and fun racing modes.
Pros
- Familiar movie characters
- Iconic locations
- 20 karts
- Split-screen multiplayer
- Customizable karts
Cons
- Controls can be stiff
- Power ups random
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Race through iconic locations inspired by your favorite DreamWorks movies. Choose from favorites like Shrek and Po with hundreds of parts to customize.
The game supports online and split-screen local multiplayer for family action. While the controls take getting used to the variety keeps it fun.
This title is great for kids who love these movies. It offers a fun racing experience that brings the films to life.
Movie Locations
Speed through tracks inspired by movies like Shrek and Trolls.
Custom Karts
Put your own twist on your kart with hundreds of parts.
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9. Nickelodeon Kart Racers – Best Nickelodeon Racing
Nickelodeon Kart Racers
Nickelodeon series racers
24 slime tracks
Customizable karts
Co-op multiplayer
Nickelodeon Kart Racers brings iconic series to the track with slime filled action. It is well rated for its broad cast of recognizable characters.
Pros
- Nickelodeon characters
- 24 slime tracks
- Customizable karts
- Co-op multiplayer
- Power ups
Cons
- Visual clutter on tracks
- Simple physics
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Choose from 12 iconic series and race on 24 different tracks like Bikini Bottom. The karts are customizable with multiple power-ups and special attacks.
The game features awesome co-op and local multi-player for family action. While the tracks can be visually busy the nostalgia factor is strong.
This title is perfect for kids who love Nickelodeon shows. It offers a fun racing experience with favorite characters.
Nickelodeon Icons
Choose a racer from 12 iconic series like SpongeBob and Turtles.
Slime Tracks
Race on 24 different slime-filled tracks from famous shows.
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10. The Lego Movie 2 Video Game – Best Adventure Platformer
The Lego Movie 2 Video Game
Six new locations
Lots of collectibles
Movie adventure story
Brick building fun
The Lego Movie 2 Video Game continues the story in a fun way. It holds a good rating for its collectible focus and movie tie in.
Pros
- Story from movie
- Collectible focused
- Six new locations
- Brick building fun
- Family friendly
Cons
- Repetitive puzzles
- Short duration
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Explore six new locations and find lots of collectibles throughout your adventure. The game features the movie adventure story with familiar characters.
Brick building fun is integrated into the gameplay for creative play. While the duration is short the focus on collectibles keeps kids engaged.
This title is great for fans of the Lego Movie. It offers a fun and creative adventure for younger players.
Movie Story
Experience the movie adventure story in this interactive game.
Collectibles
Find lots of collectibles in six new locations.
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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best Kids Games for PS4
Choosing the right game involves considering your child's interests age and how they plan to play.
Age Appropriateness
Check the age rating to ensure the content is suitable for your child. Look for games with E10 or E ratings for younger players to avoid complex themes.
Always review the age rating before buying to ensure the content matches your child's maturity level.
Gameplay Style
Determine if your child prefers action platforming or racing games. This helps narrow down choices and ensures they enjoy the experience.
Match the gameplay style to your child's preferences for lasting engagement.
Multiplayer Support
If family play is important look for games with local co-op or split-screen options. This allows everyone to participate together in one living room.
Prioritize local multiplayer support if you plan to play together frequently.
Online Features
Consider if online interaction is needed or if offline play is preferred. Online features can add longevity but may require parental supervision.
Weigh the need for online features against the desire for offline safety.
Content Variety
Look for games with multiple modes like career levels or mini games. Variety ensures the game remains interesting for longer periods of time.
Seek titles with multiple modes to extend the overall play experience.
Value and Price
Budget friendly titles often offer great value for casual play. Compare prices and watch for sales to get the best deal for your family.
Consider budget friendly titles for casual play to maximize value.
Character Themes
Games featuring favorite characters can increase immediate engagement. Look for franchises or movies your child already loves.
Choose themes that align with your child's favorite movies or shows.
How to Use and Care for Your Kids Games for PS4
Insert the game disc carefully to avoid scratches and ensure the console reads it properly. Always keep the case closed when not in use.
Regularly update the game software and your PS4 system to access new features and patches. This helps ensure smooth performance and bug fixes.
Store discs in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent warping and damage. Keep the game case clean from dust and dirt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these games suitable for young children?
Yes many titles like Carnival Games and Lego Movie 2 are designed for younger audiences. Always check the specific ESRB rating for each game before purchasing.
Can I play these games with my kids on one console?
Most titles in this list support local co-op or split-screen play. This allows family members to play together on the same PS4 console without extra hardware.
Do any of these games require PlayStation Plus?
Online multiplayer modes typically require a PlayStation Plus subscription. However most games can still be enjoyed offline or with local friends without a subscription.
Which game is best for car and racing fans?
Monster Jam Steel Titans 2 and Cars 3 are excellent choices for racing fans. They focus on vehicle stunts and provide a realistic driving experience.
Are there any educational elements in these games?
While mostly entertainment focused some games offer puzzle solving and resource management. These elements help with basic logic and planning skills.
How much storage space do I need for these games?
Storage requirements vary but most titles need between 10 to 30 gigabytes. Ensure your console has enough free space before downloading.
Can I find used copies of these games?
Yes many of these titles are available as used or digital versions. Checking online marketplaces can help you find affordable options.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Kids Games for PS4
This guide highlights the top 10 kids games for PS4 including Sonic Frontiers Carnival Games and more. Each option offers unique features to suit different interests.
Prioritize multiplayer support and age appropriateness when making your final decision. These factors ensure the game fits your family dynamics and safety needs.
Remember to check current prices and availability before buying. Prices can fluctuate so keep an eye on deals for the best value.