Another generation of games is drawing to a close, with new PlayStations and Xboxes on the way next Christmas. But that means developers have become more confident in creating games that look and play better than ever.
The following selection is chosen from titles this year that improve on some of the best from the industry's past, while standing out as some of this year's best. All but one of these games can be enjoyed with friends and family. From courtroom dramas to exploring new worlds, these are the best games for kids this holiday season.
"Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Trilogy"
Publisher: Capcom
Platform: Xbox One, Switch, PS4, PC
Price: $29.99
Rating: T (Teen)
The most popular visual-novel series got a high-definition update this year. The saga of rookie criminal defense attorney Phoenix Wright will keep your family on the edge of their seats. As Wright, you try to solve crimes of passion, deception and high-level corruption, a story written with healthy, good-natured humor that acknowledges how ridiculous and dramatic the courtroom action can get.
"Pokemon Sword/Shield"
Publisher: Nintendo
Platform: Nintendo Switch
Price: $59.99
Rating: E (Everyone)
For the first time in their 23-year history, Pokemon games have made their way to a Nintendo home console. They will be released Friday , but given the Pokemon pedigree and legacy, they're going to be the games to get this season.
Set in a modern environment inspired by Great Britain, they are the first Pokemon games to feature "open world" elements, where players are free to explore Victorian-inspired cities and fields full of hundreds of new Pokemon species to find and capture.
"The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening"
Publisher: Nintendo
Platform: Nintendo Switch
Price: $59.99
Rating: E
The Washington Post has ranked this the third-greatest game in what's considered one of the greatest game series of all time. The game is simple because its roots are from 1992. But the updated visuals make the game look like a beautifully animated pop-up book, with every tree and animal like a plastic toy come to life. Pair that with even more treasures, and this is the best adventure game out there.
"New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe"
Publisher: Nintendo
Platform: Nintendo Switch
Price: $59.99
Rating: E
Ranked by gaming site Polygon as the best Mario game ever, "New Super Mario Bros U" — originally created for Wii U — was a much-needed addition to Nintendo Switch. Sure it's a game from 2012, but it's still one of the more challenging Mario games ever made.
And if it's too hard? There are two modes designed for the casual player struggling to get through the levels. And up to four players can join. It wraps up everything great about Mario games in one box.
"Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled"
Publisher: Activision
Platform: Xbox One, Switch, PS4
Price: $39.99
Rating: E10+ (Ages 10 and older)
Yes, Nintendo dominates this list, but Mario and pals will have to hand over the kart-racing crowd to the bandicoot. "Crash Team Racing," a long-awaited remastered version of the 1999 PlayStation hit, is better than the Mario Kart series, offering more challenge, faster vehicles and tons of game modes, all delivered in detailed, dynamic graphics.
Gene Park is The Washington Post video game reviewer.
Style on 11/11/2019