Starting out in the world of video gaming can be an exciting and overwhelming experience. With so many genres, platforms, and game types available, it can be tough to know where to begin. If you’re a newcomer, you might be asking yourself, “What are the best video games for beginners?” Whether you’re a casual player or just exploring video games for the first time, it’s important to pick games that are approachable, fun, and designed to ease you into the world of gaming.
In this blog post, we will explore the best video games for beginners, providing insights into various genres and highlighting games that offer easy-to-learn mechanics, engaging storylines, and smooth learning curves. Whether you’re using a console, PC, or mobile device, there are tons of options to consider that will help you start your gaming journey with confidence. Let’s dive into the best video games for beginners!
1. Animal Crossing: New Horizons – A Relaxing and Casual Experience
If you’re just starting your gaming journey, the world of Animal Crossing: New Horizons offers a perfect, stress-free entry. In this delightful life simulation game, you move to a deserted island and begin creating your dream village. The gameplay is simple, relaxing, and offers a great balance of creativity and exploration.
Why is it one of the best video games for beginners? It’s because there are no time limits or complex mechanics. You can take your time building your island, planting flowers, catching bugs, and interacting with friendly animal villagers. The learning curve is minimal, and the atmosphere is incredibly welcoming, making it ideal for beginners.
Animal Crossing also encourages social play, allowing you to visit your friends’ islands and exchange items. Its easy-going nature and emphasis on customization make it a fantastic choice for someone new to gaming.
Tip: Don’t rush! Enjoy the calming pace of Animal Crossing at your own speed.
2. Stardew Valley – Farming Fun and Easy Mechanics
If you enjoy games that are not only fun but also offer a sense of accomplishment, Stardew Valley is one of the best video games for beginners. This indie farming simulator has become a favorite among gamers of all levels due to its simple mechanics and addictive gameplay.
The game allows you to inherit a run-down farm, and it’s up to you to restore it to its former glory. You can grow crops, raise animals, mine, fish, and build relationships with the villagers. The beauty of Stardew Valley is that it doesn’t force you into a specific playstyle, allowing you to choose what interests you the most. It also has a very forgiving difficulty curve, which is perfect for new players.
The relaxed atmosphere and low-pressure environment make Stardew Valley a great introduction to the world of gaming, especially if you’re looking for a game to play casually.
Tip: Explore the community and interact with the townspeople to make your experience even richer.
3. Minecraft – Build, Explore, and Survive
Minecraft is often touted as one of the best video games for beginners, and it’s easy to see why. This sandbox game is about building, crafting, and exploring in an open world. Whether you’re playing solo or with friends, Minecraft offers endless opportunities for creativity.
The game has two main modes: Creative and Survival. In Creative mode, you have unlimited resources and can focus purely on building and exploring. In Survival mode, you need to gather resources, craft tools, and survive against the environment and hostile creatures. The learning curve in Minecraft is gentle, with lots of tutorials available for newcomers.
Even though Minecraft can become complex, its simplicity at the start makes it an ideal choice for beginners. It encourages experimentation and learning, and the community offers a wealth of resources and guides for new players.
Tip: Start with Creative mode to familiarize yourself with the game before trying Survival mode.
4. The Sims 4 – Life Simulation Made Simple
For those who enjoy storytelling and life simulation games, The Sims 4 is another great choice for beginners. In this life simulation game, you create and control characters, build homes, and guide them through various life events. The best video games for beginners are often those that allow you to play at your own pace, and The Sims 4 does just that.
The game offers a lot of customization, allowing you to design your Sims’ homes, their appearances, and even their personalities. It’s easy to get lost in the world of The Sims 4, and the game is incredibly accessible for newcomers. While there are expansion packs and additional content, the core game is perfect for beginners who want a fun and laid-back gaming experience.
The Sims 4 has simple, easy-to-understand mechanics, making it one of the best video games for beginners interested in a more casual gaming experience.
Tip: Experiment with different life paths and storylines for fun new challenges.
5. Super Mario Odyssey – A Classic Platformer with Modern Appeal
For those looking for a more traditional, action-packed game, Super Mario Odyssey is one of the best video games for beginners. This 3D platformer follows Mario as he travels through vibrant kingdoms to rescue Princess Peach from Bowser’s clutches.
What makes Super Mario Odyssey stand out is its easy-to-learn controls, colorful environments, and creative level design. Whether you’re jumping, running, or using Mario’s new friend, Cappy, to interact with the environment, the game keeps things fresh and exciting without overwhelming newcomers.
This is a great game to play if you’re just starting to understand platforming mechanics and want to get familiar with how video games can offer both challenges and fun rewards.
Tip: Try to collect as many Power Moons as you can to unlock new areas and increase your abilities!
6. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe – Fast-Paced Fun for All Ages
If you enjoy racing games but don’t want something too complicated, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a fantastic choice. With simple controls and fun, chaotic racing action, this game is great for beginners and players of all ages. The colorful Mario universe brings a whimsical charm to the racing genre, and its forgiving difficulty level makes it accessible even for newcomers.
The game offers a variety of tracks, characters, and items to keep things interesting. You can race solo or compete against friends and family in multiplayer mode. The fun part about Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is that it’s not just about winning—it’s about having fun and enjoying the ride, no matter your skill level.
Tip: Don’t worry if you don’t win every race—Mario Kart is all about having fun and learning as you go!
7. Overcooked! 2 – A Chaotic and Fun Co-Op Game
If you’re looking for a cooperative game to play with friends or family, Overcooked! 2 is one of the best video games for beginners. In this fun and frantic cooking game, players work together to prepare dishes and serve them to customers in increasingly difficult and wacky kitchens.
The game’s simple controls and easy-to-understand objectives make it an excellent choice for beginners. However, its fast-paced nature and chaotic environments ensure that the game remains fun and challenging. The cooperative gameplay means that you can work with others, making it a perfect game for bonding and shared laughter.
Tip: Communicate with your teammates to avoid kitchen disasters!
8. Celeste – A Challenging Yet Rewarding Platformer
While Celeste may appear difficult at first glance, it’s one of the best video games for beginners who are willing to take on a challenge. In this beautifully crafted platformer, you play as Madeline as she climbs the titular Celeste Mountain, overcoming personal struggles and obstacles along the way.
The gameplay mechanics in Celeste are simple to learn, but mastering them takes time and precision. What sets this game apart is its fantastic accessibility options, which allow beginners to tweak difficulty settings to their preferences. It’s a game that encourages perseverance, and the emotional storytelling adds depth to the experience.
Tip: Don’t be afraid to adjust the difficulty if you’re new to platformers. The game is about the journey, not perfection.
9. Tetris 99 – A Modern Twist on the Classic Puzzle Game
For puzzle enthusiasts, Tetris 99 is one of the best video games for beginners. This fast-paced version of the classic Tetris game challenges you to fit falling blocks together, but with the added twist of a 99-player battle royale mode. You’ll compete against other players online while managing your own puzzle-solving strategy.
The core mechanics are easy to pick up, making it a great starting point for those unfamiliar with Tetris. The game also allows you to gradually increase difficulty as you improve, ensuring that it remains both challenging and rewarding as you progress.
Tip: Play in shorter bursts to improve your skills and get comfortable with the mechanics of Tetris.
Conclusion
Choosing the best video games for beginners is an important step in beginning your gaming journey. The games we’ve covered here offer a variety of genres, from life simulations to platformers, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. Whether you prefer a relaxing game like Animal Crossing: New Horizons or a more action-packed experience like Super Mario Odyssey, there’s a game that will match your pace and interest.
The key to enjoying gaming as a beginner is to take things slow, learn as you go, and most importantly, have fun. The best video games for beginners are the ones that make you feel engaged, entertained, and motivated to keep playing. So, grab your controller, get comfortable, and enjoy your journey into the world of video games.
