Best Steam Games for less than 9 Year Olds (Safe & Fun)

Finding Steam games for 6–8 year olds can feel trickier than it should be. Steam is packed with amazing games, sure, but most of them aren’t built with young kids (or parents) in mind. And let’s be honest: a game that looks cute can still be frustrating, too hard to read, or sneak in things you didn’t expect.

This guide is written specifically for parents. Not gamers. Not reviewers chasing hype. Just a clear, calm breakdown of safe, fun, and easy-to-play Steam games for kids aged 6 to 8, with real-world considerations like reading level, controls, and play style.

If you want games your child can actually enjoy, without constant help or surprises, you’re in the right place.

What Kids Aged 6–8 Enjoy in Video Games

Kids between 6 and 8 are in an interesting phase. They’re more confident than toddlers, but still learning patience, coordination, and reading fluency. The best Steam games for this age group tend to share a few important traits.

First, simple controls matter more than flashy features. Games that rely on just a few buttons, or work well with a controller, help kids focus on fun instead of frustration. When controls get complicated, kids often quit before the game even gets interesting.

Second, clear goals and gentle pacing make a huge difference. Kids this age enjoy knowing what they’re supposed to do next, without being rushed or punished harshly for mistakes. Games that allow exploration, retries, or relaxed progression feel far more rewarding.

Finally, short play sessions are key. Many 6–8 year olds play in bursts. Games that save automatically or don’t demand long sessions fit naturally into family routines.

Do kids this age need “educational” games only?

Not at all. While learning games are great, many kids develop problem-solving, creativity, and confidence simply by playing well-designed, age-appropriate games.

Best Steam Games for 6–8 Year Olds (Parent-Approved Picks)

These games were chosen because they’re approachable, calm, and genuinely fun for young players, without constant adult intervention.

Best Overall Steam Games for Ages 6–8

Alba: A Wildlife Adventure
This is one of those games that surprises you, in a good way. Kids explore an island, take photos of animals, and help protect nature. There’s no pressure, no enemies, and no rush.

• Reading level: Low
• Controller support: Yes
• Parent note: Encourages empathy and curiosity

Mail Time
Mail Time is cozy in the best sense. Kids deliver letters, explore colorful areas, and move entirely at their own pace. No timers. No failure states.

• Reading level: Low to medium
• Controller support: Yes
• Parent note: Great for sensitive or easily frustrated kids

A Short Hike
This game lets kids explore, climb, and wander freely. There’s no “wrong” way to play it, which makes it ideal for younger gamers.

• Reading level: Low
• Controller support: Yes
• Parent note: Perfect for relaxed, creative play

Educational Steam Games That Still Feel Fun

Not every educational game feels like homework, and these are good examples of learning through play.

Zoombinis
A classic logic game that still works beautifully today. Kids solve puzzles using patterns, logic, and experimentation.

• Skills: Logic, critical thinking
• Reading level: Low
• Parent note: Excellent screen-time balance

Thinkrolls Play & Code
This game introduces early problem-solving and coding ideas without calling it “coding.” Kids just think they’re solving puzzles.

• Skills: Problem-solving, sequencing
• Reading level: Very low
• Parent note: Especially good for curious kids

Are educational Steam games better than regular games?

Sometimes, but not always. The best learning often happens when kids are simply engaged and enjoying themselves.

Best Co-Op Steam Games to Play With Your Child

Playing together matters. Co-op games let kids learn teamwork while parents stay involved.

PHOGS!
Two connected dogs solving puzzles together sounds silly, and it is. In a good way.

• Reading level: Very low
• Controller support: Yes
• Parent note: Best played together

LEGO® Games (Selected Titles)
LEGO games are forgiving, familiar, and designed with kids in mind. Just stick to less combat-heavy titles for younger players.

• Reading level: Low
• Controller support: Yes
• Parent note: Great introduction to gaming mechanics

Games That May Be Too Hard for Some 6–8 Year Olds

Even games labeled “for kids” can sometimes be overwhelming. Games with fast reaction demands, heavy reading, or complex camera controls may frustrate younger players, especially beginners.

If your child is new to gaming, start slow. Confidence builds quickly when early experiences are positive.

Steam Games for 6–8 Year Olds: Game List & Steam Links

Safety & Reading Level Notes for Parents (Steam Games for 6–8 Year Olds)

it’s worth covering a few safety basics. Steam doesn’t clearly label games by child age, so parents need to look a little deeper.

Reading Level Expectations

Many children aged 6–8 are still early readers. Games that rely heavily on long dialogue or text instructions can slow them down or make them feel stuck. The best Steam games for kids in this age range use:

• Visual cues and icons
• Simple instructions
• Minimal required reading

Some light reading is fine, but the game shouldn’t depend on it.

Violence, Chat & Online Features

All games in this guide are non-violent or very mild and do not require online chat with strangers. That’s intentional. Online features can usually wait until kids are older and better prepared.

In-Game Purchases

Some Steam games offer DLC or extras. Using Steam parental controls helps prevent accidental purchases, and we strongly recommend setting those up before letting kids explore freely.

Final Thoughts for Parents

Steam can be a wonderful place for kids, if you choose thoughtfully. The best Steam games for 6–8 year olds aren’t about skill or speed. They’re about confidence, curiosity, and fun without pressure.

As you explore more options, remember: a calm, age-appropriate game almost always beats the most popular one.

We’re building more age-based Steam game guides to help parents choose with confidence, and without stress.

You can find also, games designed for preschool and early learners.