Olympics games hit a sweet spot: they're competitive without being violent, they're easy to pick up but can have depth, and they offer that magical combination of "I could totally do that" confidence combined with the reality check of "okay, maybe not."

The appeal breaks down like this:

For younger kids (6-10): The Mario & Sonic games are gateway drugs to both gaming and the Olympics. They're colorful, familiar characters are involved, and the mini-game format means short attention spans are actually an asset. Plus, there's something deeply satisfying about making Sonic do the 100m dash or watching Bowser attempt rhythmic gymnastics.

For tweens and teens (10+): More realistic games like Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 (now playable year-round despite the name) offer a chance to compete in sports they might actually do IRL—or sports they're curious about but will never try (looking at you, ski jumping). The character creation and customization scratches that identity-building itch that's so strong at this age.

The multiplayer factor: These games are genuinely fun for groups. Unlike battle royales where skill gaps can make things miserable, Olympics games often level the playing field. Your kid who's a Fortnite god might lose at virtual archery to their younger sibling, and that's actually refreshing.

Here's something worth knowing: during actual Olympic years, these games get a massive spike in interest. Kids watch Simone Biles stick a landing or Caeleb Dressel demolish a swim record, and suddenly they want to try it themselves. Video games become the accessible version of that impulse.

This isn't necessarily a bad thing! Studies show that sports video games can increase interest in real-world sports participation. The key word being "can"—not "will automatically." But if your kid is glued to the screen watching virtual skateboarding, there's at least a conversation starter about trying the real thing at the local skate park.

The good news: Olympics games are generally among the safest gaming options out there. No violence, minimal concerning content, and the worst language you'll encounter is usually a frustrated "Come on!" when someone false-starts a race.

The reality check: These games vary WILDLY in quality. Some are genuinely engaging with solid gameplay mechanics. Others are obvious cash grabs timed to Olympic years that play like they were developed in three weeks (because they probably were). Check parent reviews before purchasing, especially for lesser-known titles.

The online component: Many Olympics games include online multiplayer, which means the usual internet safety considerations apply. The good news is that these games tend to attract a less toxic player base than competitive shooters. The bad news is that "less toxic" doesn't mean "completely wholesome." Standard online gaming rules apply: voice chat off for younger kids, conversations about sportsmanship, etc.

The microtransaction situation: This varies by game. The Mario & Sonic series is generally free of this nonsense—you buy the game, you get the game. More realistic sims might have cosmetic purchases (uniforms, gear). Mobile Olympics games? Proceed with extreme caution and learn about in-app purchases before letting kids download.

Ages 6-8: Stick with Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games or similar party-style games. The controls are simple, the content is squeaky clean, and the mini-game format works perfectly for short play sessions. These games also work great for family play—you can actually compete without your kid getting frustrated.

Ages 9-12: This is the sweet spot for most Olympics games. Kids have the motor skills for more complex controls and can appreciate both arcade and sim-style games. Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 works well here, as do sport-specific games like Tony Hawk's Pro Skater (which includes Olympic-style skateboarding).

Ages 13+: Teens can handle the full range, including more realistic sims with complex controls and strategy elements. They might also enjoy sport-specific games that go deeper into single Olympic sports—think Steep for winter sports or various swimming/track games.

Before you roll your eyes: Olympics games can actually be educational in ways that aren't totally cringe. Kids learn about:

Is it the same as reading a book about Olympic history? No. But it's also not brain rot. It's somewhere in the middle, which describes most gaming honestly.

Olympics video games occupy a unique space: they're competitive without being violent, engaging without being addictive in the same way as some games, and they can actually spark interest in real-world physical activity.

Green flags:

Yellow flags:

The real question: Is your kid playing Olympics games instead of all physical activity, or alongside it? Are they learning about new sports and getting curious about trying them? Or is this just another screen to zone out in front of?

If Olympics games become a bridge to conversations about sports, goal-setting, and maybe even trying new activities, that's a win. If they're just another way to avoid going outside, that's worth addressing—but that's true of any game, not specific to Olympics titles.

If you're considering an Olympics game:

If your kid is already playing:

Want to go deeper? Check out alternatives to traditional sports games or learn more about setting up healthy gaming habits.

The Olympics happen every two years (alternating summer and winter), but these games can provide year-round fun. Just remember: the goal is balance. Virtual medals are cool, but they're even cooler when balanced with real-world play, whether that's shooting hoops in the driveway or just running around outside like a feral woodland creature. Both have their place.