Video games have long been a source of entertainment, but there is no denying that some videos games although not many actually educate people in one way or the other. I remember learning a lot from some of the games I played when I was a child. I was able to solve puzzles better, learn about the main causes of World War 2, the industrial revolution and even a little bit about the American War of Independence from playing video games. From exploring ancient civilizations to understanding complex scientific principles, certain games can even teach real life skills. This is why I have decided to write an article delves into ten exceptional video games that educate children in subjects like history, geography, sports, and even driving. Each game is accompanied by a modified image to provide a clearer visual representation.
10. Assassin’s Creed Series: Discovery Tour Mode
Teaches: History
Platforms: PlayStation, Xbox, PC
I strongly recommended this game for older kids learning who are interested in history and archeology, also because of the violence.
Ubisoft’s Assassin’s Creed series is renowned for its detailed historical settings. The Discovery Tour mode, available in titles like Assassin’s Creed Origins and Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, transforms the game into an interactive educational experience for older kids. They can explore ancient Egypt and Greece without combat interruptions, engaging in guided tours curated by historians and experts. This mode offers them insight into to how people lived back then, their culture alongside their way of life and architectural advancement.
9. GeoGuessr
Teaches: Geography
Platforms: PC, Browser, iOS, Android
GeoGuessr is an engaging geography game that utilizes Google Street View to drop players in random locations worldwide. The challenge is to determine one’s location using environmental clues such as language on signs, vegetation, and architectural styles. This game enhances spatial awareness and deductive reasoning, encouraging players to learn about different countries and cultures. Recently, GeoGuessr announced its upcoming availability on Steam, expanding its reach to more platforms.
8. FIFA/EA Sports FC Series: Trainer Mode
Teaches: Football Fundamentals, Strategic Thinking
Platforms: PlayStation, Xbox, PC, Nintendo Switch
EA Sports’ FIFA series offers a realistic simulation of football. The Trainer Mode provides on-screen prompts and guidance, helping players understand gameplay mechanics, positioning, and tactics. This feature is particularly beneficial for newcomers, offering a foundational understanding of football strategies and techniques. Kids inspiring to become future footballs can learn techniques they can actually use in real life from playing the game.
7. Gran Turismo 7
Teaches: Driving Fundamentals, Car Mechanics
Platforms: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5
Gran Turismo 7 is celebrated for its realistic driving physics and extensive car roster. This game offers players an authentic driving experience, emphasizing the nuances of car handling, braking, and acceleration. Additionally, the game provides detailed information about automotive engineering and history, fostering a deeper appreciation for car mechanics. In December 2024, a free version titled My First Gran Turismo was released, aiming to introduce younger audiences to driving concepts in an accessible manner. Although plating with a controller is really cool, the real kick comes from playing with a driving simulator as this can actually teach kids how to drive.
6. Minecraft: Education Edition
Teaches: Coding, Teamwork, Environmental Science
Platforms: PC, macOS, iOS, Chrome OS
Minecraft: Education Edition harnesses the creative potential of the original game for educational purposes. It introduces coding through block-based programming, encourages collaborative projects, and offers lessons on environmental sustainability. For instance, students in Spain have used this platform to learn about artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, highlighting its versatility in teaching modern technological concepts.
5. Kerbal Space Program
Teaches: Physics, Aerospace Engineering
Platforms: PC, Xbox, PlayStation
In Kerbal Space Program, players design and launch spacecraft, aiming to explore celestial bodies while adhering to realistic physics. This game emphasizes trial and error, teaching concepts like orbital mechanics, thrust-to-weight ratios, and aerodynamics. It’s an engaging way for children to grasp complex scientific principles through hands-on experimentation.
4. Civilization VI
Teaches: World History, Politics, Strategy
Platforms: PC, macOS, iOS, Nintendo Switch
Civilization VI allows players to guide a civilization from the ancient era to the modern age, making decisions on governance, culture, science, and military. The game introduces historical figures and events, providing context for the development of societies. Its strategic depth encourages critical thinking about resource management and long-term planning. The latest installment, Civilization VII, continues this tradition with enhanced gameplay mechanics and historical narratives.
3. Trackmania
Teaches: Physics, Reflexes, Creative Design
Platforms: PC, Xbox, PlayStation
Trackmania is a fast-paced racing game that challenges players with gravity-defying tracks. It emphasizes understanding momentum, speed, and control. Additionally, the game offers a track editor, allowing players to design their own courses, fostering creativity and an understanding of design principles.
2. Big Brain Academy: Brain vs. Brain
Teaches: Cognitive Skills – Logic, Memory, Mathematics
Platforms: Nintendo Switch
Big Brain Academy: Brain vs. Brain is a colourful, fast-paced puzzle game that sharpens mental agility through mini-games focused on logic, mathematics, visual puzzles, and memory tasks. It’s accessible for players of all ages and supports local multiplayer, making it a great family-friendly choice. The difficulty scales with performance, ensuring both challenge and engagement as children progress.
1. Cities: Skylines (or SimCity)
Teaches: Urban Planning, Environmental Management, Economics
Platforms: PC, PlayStation, Xbox
In Cities: Skylines (a spiritual successor to SimCity), players take control of city development—from zoning and road layouts to budgeting and utilities. It teaches systems thinking, resource management, and environmental balance. Kids learn how decisions in transportation, energy, education, and healthcare impact a living population.
With natural disasters and pollution as real-time consequences, the game also offers a realistic perspective on sustainability and urban challenges. It’s ideal for children with an interest in architecture, geography, or city planning.
Final Thoughts: When Learning Meets Play
While many still view video games as purely recreational, the truth is far more exciting. The ten games listed above prove that play can go hand-in-hand with learning. These titles not only engage children but also enrich their understanding of real-world topics—from ancient history to modern infrastructure and even outer space.
The key lies in choosing games with intent. Whether your child is fascinated by world maps, cars, coding, or civic design, there’s likely a game out there that can nurture that curiosity while sharpening their skills.
And let’s not forget: when children want to learn, they learn faster and deeper. These games spark that kind of passion.
