Top 5 Engaging Games for Kids and Teens that Foster Community and Communication

Kendryx Linscott
Dec 4
3 min read

Building strong communication skills and a sense of community is essential for young people as they grow. Games that encourage teamwork, conversation, and social interaction offer more than just fun—they help kids and teens develop important life skills. Here are five popular games that children and teenagers enjoy playing, which also promote community and communication in meaningful ways.

Eye-level view of a group of children playing a cooperative board game around a table — Children collaborating on a board game, sharing ideas and strategies

1. Minecraft

Minecraft remains a favorite among kids and teens because it combines creativity with collaboration. Players enter a blocky, open world where they can build structures, explore, and complete challenges together. The multiplayer mode encourages players to communicate and work as a team to build complex projects or survive in challenging environments.

Why it promotes community and communication:

Players must share ideas and plan their builds.
Teamwork is essential for survival modes.
Players often create private servers to play with friends, fostering a sense of belonging.
In-game chat and voice communication tools help players coordinate.

Minecraft’s flexibility allows children to express themselves while learning to listen and cooperate with others, making it a great tool for social development.

2. Among Us

Among Us is a social deduction game that has captured the attention of many young players. Set on a spaceship, players take on roles as crewmates or impostors. Crewmates work together to complete tasks, while impostors try to sabotage and eliminate others without being caught.

How it encourages communication:

Players must discuss and debate who the impostor might be.
It requires careful listening and persuasive speaking.
The game promotes critical thinking and social interaction.
Players learn to read social cues and build trust.

Among Us is a fun way for kids and teens to practice speaking clearly and listening carefully, all while enjoying a suspenseful and engaging game.

3. Fortnite (Creative Mode)

While Fortnite is often known for its battle royale mode, its Creative Mode offers a space where players can build worlds and games together. This mode encourages collaboration and creativity without the pressure of competition.

Community and communication benefits:

Players team up to design and build custom maps.
It requires planning and sharing ideas.
Players often use voice chat to coordinate their efforts.
It fosters friendships through shared creative projects.

Creative Mode in Fortnite provides a platform for kids and teens to connect, share ideas, and work together in a positive environment.

4. Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Animal Crossing offers a peaceful, social gaming experience where players build and manage their own island communities. The game encourages visiting friends’ islands, trading items, and participating in events together.

Ways it supports community and communication:

Players visit each other’s islands to share resources.
It encourages polite conversation and cooperation.
Seasonal events bring players together for shared goals.
The relaxed pace allows for meaningful social interaction.

Animal Crossing helps children and teens develop social skills in a calm, friendly setting that values kindness and cooperation.

5. Roblox

Roblox is a platform where users create and play games made by other players. It offers a wide variety of game types, many of which emphasize teamwork and social interaction.

How Roblox promotes communication:

Many games require players to work together to complete objectives.
Players chat and form groups or clans.
It encourages creativity and collaboration in game design.
The platform supports safe socializing with friends.

Roblox’s diverse game options mean kids and teens can find communities that match their interests, helping them build friendships and communication skills.

Games that bring kids and teens together to talk, plan, and cooperate help build essential social skills. Whether it’s building a virtual world, solving mysteries, or managing an island, these games create opportunities for meaningful interaction. Encouraging young players to engage in such games can support their growth into confident communicators and team players.