Video games aren’t just for the younger crowd anymore. They’ve become an excellent way for seniors to stay mentally active, connected, and entertained. However, many video games are developed with the understanding that the player will already be familiar with gaming controls and basics–so what are the options available for new gamers?
Picking a starting place for a video game depends on the interests of your loved one–the same way you wouldn’t recommend a nonfiction chronicle on war strategies to someone who loves Agatha Christie mysteries. However, some user-friendly games with excellent tutorials for beginners include Animal Crossing, Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Minecraft, and Candy Crush. These are great starting place games for seniors seeking a new hobby after moving into a senior living community.
The Benefits of Gaming for Seniors
There are many myths about video games as activities that rot your brain and waste your time. The truth is that gaming offers tons of physical, mental, social, and psychological benefits, including:
- Hand-eye coordination: Video games help improve reflexes and fine motor skills.
- Cognitive health: Games often involve puzzles, strategy, and memory, all of which help keep the brain sharp.
- Stress relief: Immersive games can help alleviate stress and provide a sense of relaxation.
- Social connection: Multiplayer games enable seniors to connect with family, friends, or an online community, reducing feelings of isolation.
- Purpose and achievement: Completing challenges or achieving in-game goals can spark joy and give a sense of purpose.
Understanding the Different Genres of Video Games
Just like books come in different genres, so do video games! It’s not all online shooter games, especially with the increase of video games being developed by independent artists.
- Puzzle games focus on problem-solving skills.
- Simulation games immerse players in real-life farming, city-building, or household management scenarios.
- Narrative games are story-driven experiences focusing on meaningful plots and decision-making.
- Casual games offer easy-to-learn mechanics, like match-3 or card games, ideal for new gamers.
Console Games for Seniors
If you own a Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, or Xbox, here are some accessible and entertaining options for seniors (though many console games can also be played with a computer).
- Myst: A timeless classic (initially published in 1993), Myst is an adventure game set on a mysterious, deserted island with a mysterious nonlinear storyline that you uncover as you explore and solve puzzles.
- Flower: In this emotionally evocative game, control the wind to move flower petals. The narrative arc is told exclusively through visuals and emotional cues as you explore serene landscapes.
- What Remains of Edith Finch: A narrative story following seventeen-year-old Edith Finch as she returns to her old home for the first time in several years to learn about a series of deaths that caused her family to fall apart.
- Animal Crossing: Create your dream island, befriend adorable animal villagers, and relax in this slow-paced, wholesome game. The game moves in time with the real-world clock, so there’s no rush—play at your own pace!
- Stardew Valley: After getting sick of city life, you take over the farm your grandfather left for you in his will. This charming farming simulator lets you grow crops, raise animals, make friends, and revitalize a cozy rural town.
- The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild: Wake from a 100-year-long slumber to learn you must help Princess Zelda stop Calamity Ganon from destroying the world. Explore an open world, complete side quests, collect items, solve puzzles, and enjoy breathtaking landscapes. While more complex than other games on this list, this game has a beginner-friendly tutorial that helps players quickly get the hang of the game.
Computer Games for Seniors
PC games offer a wide variety of options for seniors, especially those who prefer larger screens or gaming in familiar setups.
- Peggle Deluxe: A casual puzzle game where players must aim and shoot balls at a field of colorful pegs to clear them while attempting to reach a high school.
- Balatro: New on the market, this game gives you a deck of cards through which you must clear increasingly difficult antes by playing poker hands and upgrading your deck with various perks.
- Slay the Spire: A fantasy card-based game where you build a deck to engage in turn-based combat to get to the top of the tower. It is an addictive experience that rewards strategy and gives you as much time as you need to make choices.
- Minecraft: A sandbox game with infinite terrain where you can tap into your creativity to build structures, explore games, or grow a garden with blocks and materials you gather worldwide. Play in either creative mode or survival mode to spice up your gameplay.
Phone Games for Seniors
Mobile games offer quick, convenient entertainment wherever you are.
- Candy Crush Saga: This addictive and colorful match-3 game is a global favorite, and for a good reason—it’s simple and fun!
- Tetris: The classic block-stacking game is timeless and never fails to provide a mental workout.
- 2048: A simple, numbers-based puzzle game that’s incredibly satisfying—slide tiles until you reach the elusive 2048 tile!
- Words with Friends: A modern take on Scrabble, this multiplayer game lets you play with family and friends anytime.
Overcoming Challenges in Learning New Games
Picking up a new hobby like gaming can feel daunting, but a little guidance goes a long way! Most video games offer in-game tutorials that teach you the controls and help familiarize you with the world. Remember, getting used to controls or gameplay is okay. Start slow and build confidence. Aiming to finish one level or achieve a small milestone can make learning feel rewarding.
You can also encourage friends or family to join—they can help with the controls and make gaming more fun.
Level Up & Have Fun!
Video games are incredible for fun, mental stimulation, and social connection. There’s a game for everyone, whether solving puzzles in Myst, tending to crops in Stardew Valley, or having a friendly match in Words with Friends.
Ashleigh at Lansdowne knows that gaming bridges generations, giving grandparents, parents, and grandchildren a way to bond over shared adventures. Contact us today to see how our community can embrace gaming with your loved one.
