Golf Story is one of those indie gems that punches above its weight—it takes golf (not exactly a kid magnet) and wraps it in a legitimately funny, wholesome RPG that actually works. The writing is clever without being obnoxious, the gameplay is accessible but has depth, and the whole package is squeaky clean.

The main caveat is the reading. This is a text-heavy game, so if your 8-year-old is still sounding out words, you'll be their co-pilot. But that's not necessarily bad—it's a great excuse to play together, and the local co-op mode makes that easy.

It's not going to blow anyone's mind with innovation, and some kids will find golf inherently boring no matter how many ghosts you throw at it. But for the right kid—one who likes quirky humor, doesn't need constant action, and enjoys a good story—this is a solid, safe, genuinely entertaining pick that won't rot their brain or drain your wallet.