By the time kids reach 7 or 8 ,they usually want games that feel a bit more exciting. They’re more confident with controls, more patient with goals, and curious about exploring larger worlds. As a game developer and someone who’s been playing games since the late ’90s ,I still approach this age carefully. The games below add creativity and light challenge, but they stay respectful, safe, and age-appropriate ,without dark themes or overwhelming systems.
What Changes at Ages 7–8 ?
Kids at this age are developing stronger coordination and problem-solving skills. They can handle simple objectives, mild puzzles ,and longer play sessions than younger children.
That said, they’re still sensitive to frustration. Games that punish mistakes, move too fast ,or overload the screen can quickly ruin the experience. For this list ,I focused on games that:
- encourage exploration and creativity.
- Allow mistakes without harsh penalties
- Introduce challenge gradually
- Feel rewarding instead of stressful.
Good game design matters even more at this stage.
My Best Steam Game Picks for Ages 7–8
These are games I’d confidently recommend to parents looking for something engaging, but still safe.
- A Short Hike
A Short Hike is one of the most balanced games for this age group. Kids explore a small island ,meet friendly characters, and gradually unlock better movement abilities.
The game never rushes the player, and progress feels natural. From a design standpoint, it’s a great example of how freedom and structure can coexist.
Parent note: Some reading is involved ,but it’s manageable with light help.
- Alba: A Wildlife Adventure
At ages 7–8, kids engage more deeply with Alba’s exploration and environmental themes. Taking photos, helping animals, and completing small tasks feels meaningful without being stressful.
It’s a gentle game that encourages curiosity and care.
Parent note: Very approachable controls and a consistently positive tone.
- Lil Gator Game
Lil Gator Game offers a colorful open world where kids run, climb, and glide. Its child-friendly design makes exploration joyful, and simple tasks keep engagement high without confusion.
Parent note: No stressful combat; friendly visuals and easy movement.
- Island Saver
Island Saver blends light exploration with simple problem-solving tasks. Kids discover environments, help friendly characters, and learn through gentle interaction.
Parent note: Teaches simple systems without real-world pressure.
- Slime Rancher
Slime Rancher introduces exploration and management in a playful, colorful setting. Kids collect adorable slimes and experiment with different environments at their own pace.
Parent note: No countdowns or stress ,perfect for creative play.
- Cat Quest
Cat Quest is an action-RPG that stays light. Cartoon combat is forgiving and humorous, and quests are easy to follow. Kids that enjoy a little structure and storytelling will find this very rewarding.
Parent note: Simple combat, clear feedback ,and no realistic violence.
- Hidden Folks
Hidden Folks is a calm hidden object adventure with hand-drawn scenes. Kids practice focused observation without any hurry, scoring, or punishment.
Parent note: Excellent for relaxed play and quiet concentration.
- Townscaper
Townscaper isn’t a traditional game ,so much as a creative toy. Kids click to build whimsical towns and watch them grow. There’s no objective ,no timer ,just joyful creation.
Parent note: Perfect for short creative sessions without goals.
Where Parents Should Still Be Careful
Even for ages 7–8, I avoid games that:
- Rely on fast reaction timing
- Include open online chat or competitive multiplayer
- Use dark or stressful themes
- Punish mistakes harshly.
If a game creates stress instead of curiosity, it usually isn’t the right fit.
Tips for Parents Choosing Games at This Stage
A few simple habits make everything smoother:
- Watch the first play session together
- Let kids explain what they’re doing
- Adjust difficulty where possible
- Balance active play with calm play.
Games should support growth and enjoyment ,not pressure.
Who These Games Are Best For
These titles are ideal for:
- Curious kids who enjoy exploring and creating
- Early adventurers and problem-solvers
- Parents looking for safe, thoughtful gameplay
They offer a natural step forward from very early childhood games without overwhelming complexity.
Steam Store Links (Verified)
- A Short Hike Page.
- Alba: A Wildlife Adventure Page.
- Lil Gator Game Page.
- Island Saver Page.
- Slime Rancher Steam Page.
- Cat Quest Steam Page.
- Hidden Folks Steam Page.
- Townscaper Steam Page.
You can also check the best steam games for kids under 6 Here.
Check the full guide of the best steam games for young kids here.