Get ready for some fun family video games this summer
The summer months are rapidly approaching, and while that typically coincides with a slowdown in game releases, this summer is packed full of great games. There are so many incredible titles across all major gaming platforms—you’d practically think the fall rush is upon us.
Whether you are going on vacation or plan to spend the summer at home, here are some fun family video games to play this summer.
Xbox Game Pass Subscription
Platform(s): Xbox One
Genre: All
Release date: Available now
If you’re an Xbox One owner, then you’ll definitely want to get or renew your Xbox Game Pass subscription. Think of it as a Netflix for video games. You can get a one month or six month subscription, which will give you access to download hundreds of games.
The service has games from a wide range of publishers such as SEGA, Capcom, WB Games, Namco and Microsoft Studios. Fun family video games available on the service include LEGO Batman: The Videogame, Super Lucky’s Tale, Overcooked, Costume Quest 2, Pac-Man Museum and hundreds more!
New games are added each month, so there is always a new bunch of games to play each month. Additionally, brand new Microsoft Studios games are available on launch day on Xbox Game Pass.
Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze
Platform(s): Nintendo Switch
Genre: Platformer
Release date: Available now
Originally released on the Wii U, Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze was one of the systems biggest stand-out games. Now, thanks to the overwhelming popularity of the Nintendo Switch, the game is getting a second chance. If you love platforming games such as Sonic Mania, Rayman Legends, and Super Mario Odyssey—you won’t want to miss one of the best fun family video games this summer.
On the Wii U this game was known for its difficulty. However, on the Nintendo Switch, the game is made easier with mid-level checkpoints and an all-new Funky Kong mode. In this mode, you play as Funky Kong, who is immune to spikes, can double jump and float, and has three extra hearts of health.
Better yet, if you are having a difficult time on a certain level, after a few tries, the game will let you bypass it. What makes this a great fun family video game is the co-operative multiplayer mode. One player will play as Donkey Kong, while the other can choose between Diddy, Dixie or Cranky. Playing in co-op is naturally much more fun, and makes one of the best platform games even better.
Super Bomberman R
Platform(s): PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Genre: Action, maze
Release date: June 12, 2018 on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, now on Nintendo Switch
Bomberman has exploded back onto the gaming scene. It’s been over five years since we have seen a new game in the series, and Bomberman is being brought back my its new stewards at Konami. Originally released as a launch title for the Nintendo Switch, Super Bomberman R is coming to the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One this June. It’s thrilling, explosive, and there is nothing else like it out on the market.
In the series’ 33rd entry, Konami has taken Super Bomberman R back to its roots. Back is the fun loving and classic gameplay where you navigate grid-based maps and blow up destructible walls to reveal power-ups. Along the way you’ll find various different items that can either help or hinder gameplay. Skates will increase your movement speed, while skulls act like poison and slow you down.
It’s easy to learn for newcomers. Setting bombs is done using one button, making the game highly accessible for those playing for the very first time. Meanwhile, more advanced tricks like punching or kicking bombs open up once you’ve mastered the basics. Even when these new moves are layered in, the controls never get overbearing in the heat of battle.
You’ll be entertained for hours, with up to eight people who can get in on the fun. This is one of the many fun family video games you’ll want to play this summer.
LEGO The Incredibles
Platform(s): PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Genre: Action-adventure
Release date: June 15, 2018
I’ve always had a special place in my heart for LEGO games and LEGO The Incredibles will be no different. In this game, you can play as your favourite Incredibles characters in scenes that span the first and upcoming second movie. As with most other games in the LEGO series, teamwork is encouraged to conquer crime in a world full of fun and humour.
This is game for fans of all ages that offers hours of creative play where you can let your imagination run wild. You’ll get to explore action-packed story levels and an epic hub world as you bring the city’s villain’s to justice. Team up with family and friends in the game’s two player co-op mode for twice the fun.
As a fan of the LEGO games and the Incredibles movie, my family and I can not to get our hands on this fun game.
Mario Tennis Aces
Platform(s): Nintendo Switch
Genre: Sports
Release date: June 22, 2018
Mario Tennis fans, the wait is almost over. The much loved franchise is making its debut on the Nintendo Switch this June with Mario Tennis Aces. Get ready to unleash your arsenal of shots as our favourite Mushroom Kingdom characters in an all-out tennis battle with your family and friends.
Up to four people can play locally in addition to an online multiplayer mode. There is even a story mode that has some pretty creative boss battles for the whole family to enjoy. Included in the game is a Swing Mode.
In this mode you can use your Joy-Con controllers like a tennis racket, swinging them to initiate the tennis swings in the game. How cool! If previous games in the series are any indication, Mario Tennis Aces is sure to be one of the most fun family video games to hit the Switch.
Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker
Platform(s): Nintendo Switch, 3DS
Genre: Action puzzle
Release date: July 13, 2018
Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker is another fun family video game to play this summer on the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo 3DS. This Wii U original game has been updated and includes new miniature courses based on various Kingdoms from one of my all-time favourite games, Super Mario Odyssey. Family and friends can play by sharing a pair of Joy-Con controllers.
One player will control Captain Toad, and the other can help solve puzzles and keep Toad safe with turnip cover fire. Nintendo 3DS owners can enjoy the game with stereoscopic 3D visuals and touch-screen controls. I have no doubt that Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker will offer countless hours of fun for the whole family.
Let me know in the comments section below what fun family video games you are looking forward to playing this summer.
I love Xbox One Game Pass for achievement hunting. With so many games it’s easy to pop in and fire one up for some quick cheevos, even if you don’t plan on dedicating multiple days or play sessions to it. It’s just fun to sample a new game and unlock a few gamerscore points while doing it.
The other day I tried out NBA Playgrounds and earned about 850 gamerscore in just a few hours 🙂
Looking forward to Mario Tennis Aces too, my daughter and I love playing Mario Tennis titles together!
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