The 12 Best Role Playing Games for Kids in 2023

Role-playing games, sometimes referred to as RPGs, are interactive and immersive games enjoyed by every age group from young children to adults. This may even be your child’s favorite genre of games, and you just hadn’t realized what they were! 

RPGs are great for boosting creative thinking and can help develop problem-solving skills in your child. But with so many options on the market, how do you know that your child is playing high-quality, age-appropriate games? We’ve done all the research for you and put together a list of the best RPG games for children of every age group.

Before we get started, it’s important to understand the difference between tabletop and video game RPGs. 

Role-playing games can generally be split into two categories: tabletop games and video games. Tabletop games are played in person and are similar to board games, but they generally take a little more creativity. 

Tabletop RPGs (TTRPGs) often need a game master and character sheets to guide the gameplay. While there are tabletop games like this geared towards younger children, there will often need to be an older child or adult involved to keep the game running smoothly. 

Video games have the same creative aspect but are played on a PC or gaming system. The storyline in video games is usually much more consistent and less adaptable by a player’s imagination. While this may seem like a  drawback, it actually is better for independent play if that’s what you’re looking for. 

Many video game RPGs are single-player or only playable with more controllers, so tabletop RPGs are better for large groups. Whether the game is played in-person or virtually, so much fun is just waiting to be had.

Players love role-playing games because they are incredibly immersive and allow a player to flex their creative muscles. They often transport you to another time and place where you decide what direction the story will take. 

RPGs are an enriching option for your child because these games often provide more benefits than just entertainment. Many games encourage creative thinking and grow problem-solving skills. They get the brain working!

Regardless of the resources or gaming systems that you own, there are great options for role-playing games for your child. Here are 12 of the best RPGs along with their premise, target age group, cost, and how they can be played.

1. Prodigy Math

Prodigy Math is an online math game for 1st to 8th graders. The game takes place on the fantasy world of Prodigy Island, filled with magical creatures called Pets. Your player is a new wizard who is tasked to stop the villainous Puppet Master from taking over the island and putting Pets under his spell.

To succeed, your player will need to take part in math battles against Pets and break the spell on them. They'll answer curriculum-aligned math questions powered by an adaptive algorithm, helping them practice on their struggle areas.

For kids who love gaming or fantasy words, Prodigy Math features many popular RPG elements, including:

• Getting to choose a starter Pet
• New content and quests added regularly
• Over 100 Pets to discover, tame and evolve
• In-game festivals with exclusive rewards, like Winterfest!
• Epic quests packed with adventures across different elemental zones

And the best bit? Kids can play Prodigy Math at home and in the classroom. Research has shown that using Prodigy Math can help students grow their math skills. In one study, Prodigy Math helped one group of students in a school district master 68% more math skills on average in one month.

Prodigy Math also has free parent accounts that lets parents cheer their child on and get a regular report card on their progress, with even more features like sending your child Goals and Rewards available if they get a Membership! Try Prodigy Math with your child today!

Target Age Group: 1st-8th Graders

How To Play: Online

Cost: Free, with optional Memberships for extra rewards

2. Pokémon Games

Pokémon is a fantasy RPG made for both younger kids and older kids. Now one of the most popular gaming series in the world, the series has spawned card games, TV shows and more. The various versions of the game have been around for many years, so there's an option for just about every Nintendo game system.

Pokémon appeals to many young kids because the gameplay is easy to follow: collect a variety of Pokémon, beat the gym leaders, and become a Pokémon master.

But the fun lies in the fact that there are many ways to achieve these goals. Your child can make their team with whatever Pokémon they'd like and can spend as long exploring as they want.

Target Age Group: 7-12 year olds

How To Play: Newer versions on Nintendo Switch or older versions on a variety of gaming systems

Cost: $40-$60

3. Dungeons and Dragons (DnD)

Dungeons and Dragons, which is commonly shortened to DnD, is one of the most popular role-playing games on the market. It is played with different types of dice, a character sheet, some friends, and whatever your imagination can dream up. 

This RPG is guided by a 'game master' or 'dungeon master' as players explore a fantasy world and are asked to complete a series of challenges to beat the game. No two games of DnD are alike, and it can be catered to any group or setting. The game allows a lot of flexibility and players can create their very own character, including popular classes like wizards, rogues, fighters or bards!

The Dungeons and Dragons starter set is all you need to begin playing, which is available at most stores that sell board games. However, if you’d like to expand on your gameplay, there are a variety of expansion packs available to purchase as well.

While DnD is normally played by grown-ups, the game can easily be adjusted to accommodate kids. They even might want to have a go at leading a session as the 'game master' once they've picked up the rules.

Target Age Group: 6+ year olds

How To Play: Tabletop Game

Cost: $20 for the Starter Set (includes a rulebook, character sheets and introductory campaign)

4. Costume Quest

Costume Quest is an online role-playing game that is a Halloween-themed adventure to save the protagonist's sibling. 

This game is enjoyed by younger players because of the easy-to-understand mechanics and high-quality graphics. Your child may especially enjoy the fun involved in equipping new costumes that carry special abilities in combat. 

Target Age Group: 7+ year olds

How To Play: PC, Playstation 3, Xbox 360, Android & iOS

Cost: $9.99

5. Stardew Valley

Stardew Valley is a cozy role-playing game that has been released on many platforms. In the game, the main character inherits a farm from their grandfather and is tasked with learning how to live off the land. 

This game is mostly a single-player game. However, newer versions allow for up to three players in one game, which opens the door for fun gameplay with friends.

Target Age Group: 10+ year olds

How To Play: PC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, iOS, Android

Cost: $14.99

6. Hero Kids

Hero Kids is a tabletop role-playing game that is available for download through DriveThruRPG. The difficulty is adjustable based on the age of the players. 

Hero Kids is a great game for younger players because the gameplay is simple and it's easy for the players to see themselves as the characters. There are also quite a few expansions available for this game to easily change up the story. 

Target Age Group: 4-10 year olds

How To Play: Tabletop - Printable Downloads

Cost: $5.99

7. Minecraft Dungeons

Minecraft Dungeons is an RPG spin on the iconic Minecraft game. A player can play alone or with up to 3 friends to explore dungeons, fight monsters, and defeat the final boss. 

If your child loves Minecraft, they will likely enjoy this game that has more of an action and adventure focus. In addition to the base game, there are also seasonal adventures and expansion packs available. 

Target Age Group: 7+ year olds

How To Play: PC, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4

Cost: $19.99-$29.99

8. Miitopia

Miitopia is a role-playing game where players can customize their character's look, abilities and role by selecting jobs like warrior or mage. The overall goal is to defeat The Dark Lord and save their hometown, Greenhorne Town. 

This game is enjoyed by all ages because of the fun things to do like increasing friendships with NPCs, leveling up abilities and collecting gear to defeat the final boss. 

Target Age Group: All Ages

How To Play: Originally Nintendo 3DS, now also available on Nintendo Switch

Cost: $39.99

9. No Thank You, Evil

No Thank You, Evil is a tabletop role-playing game that can be downloaded online or by purchasing the print version. While it’s similar to Dungeons and Dragons, it’s directed more toward younger gamers. 

In this RPG, the Guide, like a gamemaster, is usually played by an older player who can provide clear directions. Players can use their special skills, companions and equipment to overcome obstacles in their path. This game introduces many concepts and skills that can be used later in more advanced role-playing games. 

Target Age Group: All Ages

How To Play: Tabletop

Cost: $14.99 for PDF Download, $39.99 for Print Game

10. Mice & Mystics

Mice & Mystics is a tabletop RPG where players take on the role of royal subjects to the King that have been turned into mice. The overall goal is to escape the clutches of Vanestra. 

This game requires players to work on their problem-solving skills, creative thinking and teamwork as they face foes like rats, cockroaches, and spiders. 

Target Age Group: 7+ year olds

How To Play: Tabletop

Cost: $59.99

11. Pathfinder

Pathfinder is another role-playing game that is similar to Dungeons and Dragons. It played with a set of dice, character sheets and an active imagination. Players can choose to create their own adventure or use a pre-built one that comes in the expansion packs.

This adventure game is set in a fantasy realm where just about anything can happen. Throughout the game, players can customize their character, abilities, and actions. When you purchase the beginner box, you will receive everything you need to learn how to play Pathfinder. 

12. The Legend Of Zelda: Link's Awakening

The Legend Of Zelda: Link’s Awakening is a popular game originally released in 1993 but remastered for a new generation in 2019. 

This RPG transports the player into the fantasy world of Koholint Island where they can explore underground dungeons and fight monsters. This game has withstood the test of time, appealing to a wide age range of players. 

Target Age Group: 8+ year olds

How To Play: Nintendo Switch

Cost: $59.99

Role-playing games are a great way to keep your child’s brain working even while they’re playing games. They can be learning problem-solving skills, creative thinking skills, and educational concepts all while having a ton of fun. 

If you’re looking to build their math skills while gaming, Prodigy Math is a fantastic option. Prodigy can build your child’s engagement in what they’re learning in the classroom because they’re having so much fun while learning in the game. Plus, parents can join in the fun and support their child with their own parent account!