Recommendations for a Gaming Console for an 11 Years Old

virhlpool on 06/02/2024 - 22:02
Last edited 07/02/2024 - 09:27

I am looking for a gaming console to gift to an 11 years old in family who hasn't been exposed to gaming yet. I am myself not into gaming and am definitely not updated with all the models and the current gaming ecosystem. I grew up in no-internet era so my go to were Super Mario, Battle Tanks, Roadfighter, Pacman, Prince etc and at a later age I was introduced to AoE, Doom, etc games. I hope I remember those games' names correctly.. lol. I don't recall the console brand I had as a kid but it was some non-popular one (maybe a cheaper dupe of Nintendo) and there used to be cassettes those days which would have about 100 or 250 games on a cassette.

Which brand console and model would you recommend? How many built-in games does it come with as default? Is there any other expense involved apart from the original purchase price unless one wants to buy more games?

This is probably the very basic info for avid gamers but it will help me get upto speed and make a decision. If you can shed some light on any regular deals (on OzBargain) that I should keep an eye on, it will be helpful too. Thank you in advance!

Toys & Kids Game Console

Comments

  • Hybroid on 06/02/2024 - 22:04
    +24

    Nintendo Switch is the obvious default answer but it seems kids are more interested in mobile phone gaming nowadays.

    • jaimex2 on 07/02/2024 - 14:58
      +16

      Yeah but you really want your kids playing dopamine driven games with pay to win?

      • Papa Huggies on 08/02/2024 - 14:34
        -1

        As opposed to dopamine driven games but without P2W?

        • Jules_d1 on 08/02/2024 - 14:47
          +10

          Yes? I think that is exactly what they are saying.

          • beltdrive on 09/02/2024 - 10:45

            @Jules_d1: You're missing their point - stating "dopamine driven" is redundant

  • pegaxs on 06/02/2024 - 22:11
    +7

    Switch. iPad. PS5.

    I guess so long as it plays Roblox, Fortnite and Minecraft, it should be good to go.

    • virhlpool on 06/02/2024 - 22:12

      Are Roblox, Fortnite and Minecraft paid games or are they included when one buys Switch of PS5?

      • QF99 on 06/02/2024 - 23:34
        +3

        Roblox and Fortnite are free to download on all platforms, but Minecraft costs money on all platforms, even on PC & Xbox.

        • 87percent on 07/02/2024 - 08:12
          +1

          I wad surprised that a friends kid played Fortnite, not to pvp match, but to do all those stupid side things (like get streamers in the game, or, throw a dance party, or, upgrade your pc so you can hack other players,

      • ozbjunkie on 07/02/2024 - 07:30
        +2

        These are the questions.

        What games does he want to play?

        What games are you happy with him playing (less adult themes on Nintendo)

        Most importantly, what console does his friends use? Often good to get the same one.

        Considering this is a bargain site
        Nintendo will be most expensive, game discounts are more rare
        Xbox will be cheapest with game pass (subscription service)
        PlayStation 5 will be good quality, with some subscription games and some individually purchased games.

        So options are
        Expensive kids system Nintendo switch
        Cheap all round system xbox
        Best adult games system in my opinion ps5

        If they or you are computer savvy, or you want to be, get a gaming PC and hope he gets into music production, media production, software, programming, 3d printing, robotics. Something that he can see tech as a learning tool too, not just a gaming tool.

        • virhlpool on 07/02/2024 - 09:25
          +2

          This is great info. Xbox sounds like the answer.

          If they or you are computer savvy, or you want to be, get a gaming PC and hope he gets into music production, media production, software, programming, 3d printing, robotics. Something that he can see tech as a learning tool too, not just a gaming tool.

          Thanks for the advice. Appreciated. What next steps after buying a gaming PC? I mean, how does it help with music production, media production, progamming, etc?

          • coolfriendjoachim on 07/02/2024 - 16:20
            +2

            @virhlpool: A gaming PC is a terrible idea for an 11 year old if the goal is for them to play video games. They have no idea what they like, or if they'll enjoy gaming at all. A decent gaming PC will be more than double the price of a switch, and a not-decent PC will be a frustrating waste of money for an 11 year old. I'm pretty sure at this point they just want to be able to turn it on and play a game.

            They'll likely need a laptop for high school soon, which will be enough for them to get into music, media, programming, etc.

            • RefusdClassification on 07/02/2024 - 18:06

              @coolfriendjoachim: The only advantage PCs have is frequent sales with heavy discount as well as bundles, but as mentioned some popular kiddies games are technically free to play, and if an 11 year old has broader taste it will probably be for A list games like Red Dead Redemption 2 or Forza Horizon rather than low production cost games or oldies.

          • RefusdClassification on 07/02/2024 - 18:16

            @virhlpool: I would start with freeware like Audition for audio editing, Gimp for Photo editing, Blender for 3D modelling. I'm not sure what to recommend for video creation or editing, programming, CAD and desk top publishing; they aren't skills I have. That said, to get a job in a creative field you need to have experience in professional programs. Some programs students can purchase or subscribe to for a much lower fee; or else you can take a risk a pirate professional programs. There are some free tutorials for the various programs on Youtube; some other learning resources like Lynda require payment.

            Photography (followed by processing of the images on a computer) is another useful skill but SLRs are relatively expensive on top of the cost of a reasonable good PC.

          • TenguTech on 08/02/2024 - 18:08

            @virhlpool: I was going to say on the Xbox front:

            Be aware that the lower teir of 'Xbox series' (the 'S' version) has no DVD/Blueray drive.
            So you will have to buy all games digital, and won't be able to pick up 2nd hand games from things like EB games. Or swap games with friends.

            I think there is also a 'Digital Only' PS5 to be aware of if your thinking of going that route.

            Thought I would agree with people suggesting the Switch for an 11 year old.
            I think it has more kid friendly games.
            It is more portable, and you can still plug it into a TV if you want it on a bigger screen.

            • virhlpool on 08/02/2024 - 19:31
              +1

              @TenguTech: I have ordered R36S from AliExpress. Hoping it would be a good starting point, before moving to a console.

      • joelmuzz on 08/02/2024 - 11:50
        +2

        "Free" games are generally a trap for kids because they are all about selling the ingame premium content.
        Of course parents just tell the kid No (and ensure credit card numbers are secure because they are good at copying them, their friends will tell them all the tricks and encourage it), but that can become tantrums. So would get the parents approval before inflicting a microtransaction/gacha game on them.

        Nintendo is most kid/family friendly. The company is quite pure.
        XBOX/PS have some more predatory tactics.
        PC is the unregulated wild west and also hassles with kids downloading virus infected pirated games.

        • virhlpool on 08/02/2024 - 12:02

          I have ordered R36S from AliExpress. How do you rate it for kids? Not comparable to console for sure but does it work for kids you reckon?

          • joelmuzz on 08/02/2024 - 12:55

            @virhlpool: Dont know anything about it. But we were very happy with Gameboy 30 years ago.

    • bazingaa on 07/02/2024 - 13:58

      what is Roblox? I have seen gift cards at Coles

      • Benicio on 07/02/2024 - 15:31
        +7

        a predatory site where kids can join different types of games (which are not too bad by themselves) but cant really do much in those games until they pay $1-$5 for random skills/cosmetics. Those small purchases soon add up to hundreds of dollars if not careful but even more damaging is the way it normalises that type of purchasing behavior.

        • serpserpserp on 07/02/2024 - 21:49

          but cant really do much in those games until they pay $1-$5 for random skills/cosmetics.

          This isn't true. Sure there are games in there that try and force you to pay money, but I've played on there with the kids and haven't spent a cent.

          In terms of robux usage, it is a good way to teach a kid the value of money. You can exchange for doing chores etc if you need to. If you gave a kid pocket money most will just blow it on junk anyway, inside or outside the Internet.

          • fredk1000 on 07/02/2024 - 23:40
            +1

            @serpserpserp: I am not sure about that. My son sees no value in the Robux, he could spend it in an instant on a skin or something.
            He was asking for $80AUD in Robux so he could buy two berries in a Roblox game. Roblox will teach you about being scammed though, he has been scammed so many times for Robux…. It's just a few clicks for him after entering the gift card code.
            No so long ago, they changed the exchange rate thing and you get like 30% less robux in the conversion here.

            If you kids have not been exposed to Roblox, delay it as long as you can.
            My two kids would happily spend ALL day playing it if we let them.
            Like someone wise said before, Roblox is like crack cocaine for kids…. You have been warned.

            Also my kids do not play non online games, they get bored in a minute.

            • serpserpserp on 08/02/2024 - 08:02

              @fredk1000:

              My son sees no value in the Robux,

              My two kids would happily spend ALL day playing it if we let them

              You do need to be a parent and help them understand that robux does ultimately come from real money. Like with any online activities, you should never just "hand the keys over" to small children and let them do whatever. You have to actively be involved and parent them.

              • fredk1000 on 08/02/2024 - 22:47

                @serpserpserp: Great idea.
                I don't just hand my kids my kids robux, they have earned it or maybe a special occasion or reward.
                But they spend it very quickly.
                Kids are over 10yrs old, they are okay. I have filtered Internet for them as well.
                But I do see what they are doing online.

  • Tily on 06/02/2024 - 22:33
    +5

    My 10 turning 11 year old has had a Nintendo Switch since he was 6. The console has grown with him and we love the portability and versatility of the console. If it’s not at home, it’s been great to bring around when we travel or on sleepovers, etc. To reduce the need of constantly removing the controllers when it’s docked, he does have a Pro Controller to use instead.

    The Switch does not come with any games, which averages around $65, depending on the title. We have picked up a few Super Mario ones for around $25+ when they are on offer. I would suggest going down to EB Games. They should be able to explain the console and games to you.

    • virhlpool on 06/02/2024 - 22:56
      +1

      I would suggest going down to EB Games. They should be able to explain the console and games to you.

      I must put this on cards. Thanks!

    • coolfriendjoachim on 07/02/2024 - 16:21

      There are also plenty of smaller downloadable games ("indie games") that you can download, which will be cheaper ($5-30) - lots of interesting things to sink their teeth into.

    • niknah on 08/02/2024 - 11:27
      +1

      There are plenty of free games. Just don't put your credit card in anywhere or you'll be charged when they "accidentally" click on something.
      https://www.nintendo.com/us/store/games/#p=3&sort=df&f=price…

  • sumyungguy on 06/02/2024 - 22:47
    +6

    The gaming industry generates more revenue than movies and TV combined, which means nothing is free. Say you go for a Switch; for Mario Kart 8 it costs $80 for the digital download, $69 for the game card new, or maybe $40 pre-owned.

  • USER DC on 06/02/2024 - 22:52
    -8

    did not know 11 yr olds of modern age need a gaming console.

    • virhlpool on 06/02/2024 - 22:55
      +1

      Well.. Not a console necessarily. Any gaming device that's apt for the need.

      • USER DC on 06/02/2024 - 22:57
        -1

        windows OS can get many games, that should be good enough honestly, (and may be better for their future education support too).

        So a decent used laptop or PC

        can look into ipad too (but I personally dont like apple, and think used $300-500 laptops are just as good)

        • virhlpool on 06/02/2024 - 23:47

          If one has an iPad, how do you recommend going about downloading games? Straight from the app store? Or is there an app which has multiple games?

          • USER DC on 06/02/2024 - 23:54
            -6

            @virhlpool: I dont use apple so cannot say much about it.

            also in future apple can technically have multiple marketplaces for app too (outside appstore)

            https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_6dbNzFD0zM

          • ihfree on 07/02/2024 - 08:41
            +1

            @virhlpool: App store or Apple arcade(subscription service).

            A iPad and laptop are very different devices. An iPad is far more portable and much easier to use on transport.

            • virhlpool on 07/02/2024 - 09:21

              @ihfree: Thanks. I myself have an iPad too. Just not sure about how can one access and download games on it.

        • ColtNoir on 07/02/2024 - 11:01
          +2

          $300-500 laptop would be torture for anyone wanting to game. Why would you do this to someone?

          • BanannaMan on 07/02/2024 - 14:34

            @ColtNoir: He probably doesnt have kids, I would have answered like this when I was 20 too

  • Godric on 06/02/2024 - 23:04
    +6

    SNES

    • CauseNEffect on 07/02/2024 - 20:33
      +3

      This is actually a great idea. The recently released Mini SNES with pre loaded games is awesome gaming, completely offline and safe for kids.

      • Godric on 07/02/2024 - 20:43

        100%, and it can give them some sort of appreciation for when they reach current gen later on, how far we have come etc

  • AustriaBargain on 06/02/2024 - 23:04

    Switch, though Switch 2 is obviously coming out this year so it would hurt to pay $500 for OLED Switch now and then $700 for Switch 2 so soon. Then again you can just sell the Switch 1 or use it yourself if she upgrades.

  • Cluster on 06/02/2024 - 23:21
    +11

    Commodore 64 with tape drive. They will learn patience.

    • JimB on 07/02/2024 - 09:06
      +2

      Are you keeping up with the Commodore?
      Cause the Commodore is keepin up with you!

    • Windows7forever on 07/02/2024 - 23:24

      This is the way.

  • Benoffie on 06/02/2024 - 23:52
    +2

    What do the parents say?

    Nephew migrated from Switch > PS5 at age 12 and loves it. Switch isnt touched now.

    Our kid has never had a console, only PC. If a family member purchased us a console, id return it. Just cost and longevity arent there for us.

    Different strokes.

    • virhlpool on 07/02/2024 - 09:23

      How do you usually access games on PC? Do you download them from official games sites or play them on web? Sorry, not sure how it works.

      • Kail on 07/02/2024 - 10:02
        +1

        Steam is the easiest way.

        Steam has sales at different times of the year, but I get most of my keys from bundle sites like Fanatical and Humble Bundle. They sell different game bundles each month for cheaper prices, after you buy you just copy and paste the key they give you into the Steam app on your PC. You download and play it through Steam then. There was a good kid's bundle on Humble recently, but it's over now unfortunately.

        https://store.steampowered.com/
        https://www.fanatical.com/en/bundle/games
        https://www.humblebundle.com/games

        • virhlpool on 07/02/2024 - 11:02

          So, you first install Steam -> and then download the games that you want to play -> Play them using Steam. Is this how it works? Sorry for the 101 question. haha

          • Kail on 07/02/2024 - 11:36

            @virhlpool: Yep, Steam keeps it all organised and in one place.

            1. Install Steam app
            2. Add games to Steam library*
            3. Download games (click Install on any game in your library)
            4. Play games on Steam

            *You can buy directly on Steam, or buy from Fanatical/Humble and add the keys to Steam, or there are plenty of free games on Steam as well. You just need to find them and add them to your library to make them show up ready to install.

            • virhlpool on 07/02/2024 - 12:55
              +1

              @Kail: Amazingly clear instructions for someone who knows nothing about it. I appreciate it.

              • Lockieasy on 07/02/2024 - 14:44
                +1

                @virhlpool: Also (as this is ozbargain) it's best to use the Wishlist feature, as games regularly go on sale and you'll get notified via email when that happens with a game you want.

              • Antikythera on 07/02/2024 - 18:26

                @virhlpool: the steam account system is also good for when using a new PC.
                install steam.
                log into your account.
                access any of the games you already own.
                download just the one you want to play.
                resume save game files you saved on steam.

  • BoltThrower on 07/02/2024 - 01:21
    +4

    Short answer. Switch. If the friends have a Switch, chances are they'll want one too.

    Back in my day (here we go) it was the Commodore 64, introduced by friends who had one, and tonnes of games which we traded.
    I mention this because gaming can be anti-social. If you can find out what this kids' friends have (probably a Switch) then they can hang out, bond more and probably lend each other games.
    The Switch console is probably the most newbie-friendly, but the games are expensive.
    The Steam Deck is more expensive but the games are much cheaper, much like a cheap laptop which is also an option.

  • elgrande on 07/02/2024 - 04:44
    +1

    Pong.

  • onetwothreefour on 07/02/2024 - 06:14
    -2

    PS5. My ten year old and most his friends have one. He has a switch also but not as good.

  • Hoju on 07/02/2024 - 07:09
    +2

    You can also hack a gen 1 switch and have unlimited free games if that’s down your alley. The cost of games was always going to be obstructive to us getting a switch.

  • Nugs on 07/02/2024 - 07:39

    Cracked/chipped wii
    .

  • theHMASfriendship on 07/02/2024 - 08:41

    Switch

  • Danstar on 07/02/2024 - 08:45
    +2

    Xbox with a few months of game pass ultimate which will give them a huge library of games

    • GrimCheaper on 08/02/2024 - 18:48

      This is the best answer. Just need an xbox xbox series s and with game pass. Switch games are usually $60-$80 each.

  • o53djz7qTPY4der on 07/02/2024 - 09:23

    When I was 11 all I wanted was a MegaCD to go with my MegaDrive.

  • owli on 07/02/2024 - 09:42
    +1

    Switch is good for portability and a generally safe environment.
    People make good points about PC as he can do so many things on there outside of gaming, he can also pirate games if money is an issue. But I would say you are at the highest risk of being exposed to porn etc, like almost guaranteed if he is not constantly monitored.
    Xbox and PS5 will have better game sales than switch, however, no portability. I also find it odd that I come across hentai games when browsing the store, lol.

    I let my kids play games on my PC, switch and PS5. My wife or I are always in the room with them, no matter what console.

  • Loopholio on 07/02/2024 - 09:52
    +1

    PC. One major benefit of PC gaming is the endless supply of free games from Epic and very cheap games from Amazon Prime Gaming.

    If cost is less of an issue, ask the kid what they want and what their friends have.

  • GettingThePlus190s on 07/02/2024 - 10:56
    +1

    PC. Much cheaper and more flexible.

  • ColtNoir on 07/02/2024 - 11:01

    What's your budget?

    • virhlpool on 07/02/2024 - 11:03

      I am flexible about it. I wouldn't mind $500-$700 but if there's a cheaper option, equally good (e.g. using the existing PC) then that's a not a bad option either. I am still learning about various possibilities as I haven't touched games after my childhood and not familiar with how kids play these days. Obviously I have heard of PS, Xbox and Nintendo but wasn't familiar with details or the way you play directly on PC (Steam), for e.g.

      • ColtNoir on 07/02/2024 - 11:10
        +3

        I think with the age in mind and the budget, it's best to have some discussions with the child and see what they want from a gaming console.

        I'd suggest not asking ‘what do you want’ but rather get interested in what they/ their friends are doing/getting.

        I had a nephew a few years ago make a really switch transition from the switch to Xbox around this age and the switch ended up a paperweight. It all depends on the kid.

  • 2esc on 07/02/2024 - 11:10

    My kids had a Nintendo switch both have grown away from it. My 11 year old has a xbox and is happy with it.

    Is this 11 year old in your household? Or in a relatives home. Are they happy for him to have a console? Will it be connected to the internet? Be aware or the addictive nature of online gaming and youtube etc that kids face. Will the console be in their room or lounge room?

    Personally i think its best at this age to be set up in a common area so some supervision can occur as they will be exposed to bad language, bullying, abuse and scammers.

    Even if you let them know the dangers they will still experience rubbish.

    • virhlpool on 07/02/2024 - 13:01

      Absolutely.. In my family but not the same household. If we go console route, I am sure they will prefer it in a common area, most likely connected to the main tv. Honestly, if there are a number of games that can be played without being connected to internet, that will always remain a preferred option. Are there 'enough' games in these consoles that can be played as a single player or dual player but without being connected to internet?

  • Drakesy on 07/02/2024 - 13:51

    SWTICHHHHHHHH
    Else PS5/XBOX if they prefer to go pewpew

  • JimJim on 07/02/2024 - 13:56
    +2

    A Switch is the obvious answer, although as someone mentioned, the next one is highly speculated to come out at the end of this year.

    The Switch doesn't usually come with any games, although some online games are free-to-play. They do sell bundles though e.g. you can buy a console bundled with Mario Kart or Switch Sports.

    Switch has a huge library of high quality games at this point, it can be played on the TV ("docked") or portably (e.g. in the car, on the train). The most desirable Switch games are usually first-party ones (those made by Nintendo), they typically cost around $60 each. Those are games like Super Mario, Mario Kart, Pokemon and Zelda.

    Alternatively, you can buy games through the online store. You can usually get a lot of decent third party games on sale in the online store for anywhere from $10 - $35 each.

  • bazingaa on 07/02/2024 - 13:58
    +1

    PC + Xbox game pass

  • trapper on 07/02/2024 - 15:04

    Could get him one of these with thousands of games on it. All the classic retro games that you will know too.

    https://anbernic.com/ https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/828949

  • ReaperX22 on 07/02/2024 - 15:06
    +1

    Friends kid who is younger, just got a switch, and absolutely loves it. Mario kart, some super mario games, etc. Also just got Minecraft on it too. Switch 2 around the corner makes it a hard recommendation but until we get a firm date it's still a great choice!

  • Ghost47 on 07/02/2024 - 15:28
    +1

    Arduino Starter Kit is a great way to keep an 11 year old engaged.

  • DontNeedThis on 07/02/2024 - 16:49
    +1

    I'd honestly buy my kid a Sega Genesis. Gives them a taste of amazing retro music.

  • Maxi Pad on 07/02/2024 - 17:46

    Switch is the most age appropriate. But an Xbox with Game pass is also a very legitimate option that should be considered. Gamepass is like the Netflix of video games.

    • virhlpool on 07/02/2024 - 17:49

      Thanks. So Xbox without Gamepass means no games at all? How much do an Xbox and the Gamepass cost approx?

  • The Hawk on 07/02/2024 - 17:51
    +1

    Switch is a nice entry level into gaming without a lot of the toxic BS you will deal with online otherwise. Great for couch co-op games with the family and being portable they can take it places should you need/want that to happen.

    For the more powerful consoles, Xbox has Gamepass which is generally rated better than the Playstation alternative, but it can depend on if they have friends (or cousins) who also play xbox or PlayStation when it might be worth getting the same.

  • Sammy Boi on 07/02/2024 - 18:18
    -1

    People give the Nintendo switch so much praise when it struggles to run its own flag ship games properly lol

    I don't believe an 11 year old has the need for a flagship console so the obvious answer would be an Xbox series S 500 GB or the newer 1 TB version is probably better value

  • liongalahad on 07/02/2024 - 20:42

    some emulator retro console in which you can download thousands of different games, including all Mario's etc
    It will keep him entertained as f, until his friend will show him a PS5, then you'll be in trouble

  • monty168 on 07/02/2024 - 21:34

    My son is 9 and loves the ps5.

  • congo on 07/02/2024 - 21:43

    Get a cheap gaming laptop, he can use it for schoolwork as well.
    Most of the games kids play these days are available on PC.

  • mrvaluepack on 07/02/2024 - 21:59

    Cheap and easy retro handheld console:

    https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/829350
    https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/829327

    Preferably ones that come with all the games so that you dont need to go looking for all the ROMs yourself.

  • cbastien on 07/02/2024 - 22:40
    +2

    Make sure to ask the parents first. Before talking to the kids. It is not easy to not buy a gaming console to your kids so it is most likely on purpose they don’t have one.

  • moto on 08/02/2024 - 01:30

    PC + USB controller of choice (snes n64 ps1/2 gamecube)

    https://youtu.be/pFlcqWQVVuU

  • solidussnake on 08/02/2024 - 07:09
    +4

    Have you asked the parents first to make sure it's ok ?

  • BuDWiZe on 08/02/2024 - 07:48
    +2

    Avoid it if you can for as long as you can. There is way better things kids can do with their time if given the choice

    • WinterStar on 08/02/2024 - 12:43

      As much as I agree with what you're saying, it's a fact that most modern households have children playing video games from a younger age now and one big thing that I learnt when I was a kid was that it was important to at least have a general knowledge of what the other kids around you were talking about, it'll help make friends and provide them with topics to talk about. Sure this can apply to many other subjects but gaming is just more major.

  • jerjergege on 08/02/2024 - 08:56

    DIY budget PC, build with your kid.

  • idonotknowwhy on 08/02/2024 - 09:20

    Since they have no video game exposure, you could always start them with like SNES -> Gamecube -> Wii.
    Do it all for free with old hardware you have lying around.
    I'd avoid mobile games / short attention span games personally.

  • Blackadda on 08/02/2024 - 09:31

    I'd go xbox or playstation as you can pay sub and get lots of games to try.
    With switch you're forking out every individual game whether you end up liking it or not

  • cunningdrew on 08/02/2024 - 10:00

    Switch for sure. Make sure it's the OLED model and not the lite one, so they can plug it in to the TV and parents can play.

    My kid had a Series X when he was 6 but that is bad on me, too early. That said, at 9 years old he is a Fortnite gun!

  • MrFunSocks on 08/02/2024 - 15:04

    Switch is the obvious and correct answer.

  • H3R34TH4C0MM3NTS on 08/02/2024 - 15:17
    +4

    If they haven't been exposed, best not to , find another hobby like playing tennis or the piano. This is coming from a lifetime retro casual gamer

  • Widget on 08/02/2024 - 15:35
    +3

    If your kid hasn't been corrupted by video games, then I suggest not getting him one. Get him/her into a hobby, or reading books, do outside activities, don't turn them into a zombie we see all too often these days.

  • nobro25 on 09/02/2024 - 06:21

    When I was 11 all we had was one Gameboy Colour shared between two other siblings. Get one of those Gameboy knockoffs off eBay for $50 and they have like 1000 games. Don't have to break the bank with an switch, Xbox, PS. Those retro games where my childhood.

    I didn't get a mobile phone till I was like 16 and it only has 3 games on it obvious one was snake.

  • Commander Shepard on 09/02/2024 - 09:30

    Xbox 360. Its like thr PS2 now. So many quality games for dirt cheap

Login or Join to leave a comment
Login Join