We can lament the time children (and adults!) spend on gaming and screens as much as we like, but the reality is that gaming provides a lot of joy and entertainment in today’s world.
Sure, a decade or two ago, we might have spent more time playing outside, but times have changed, and gaming has become a significant source of fun and connection for many.
Whether you’re heading off on a family vacation or taking a well-deserved break this holiday season, chances are someone in your family will bring a handheld gaming device. Wondering what games are worth checking out? I’ve got you covered!
I asked my family of five (well, seven, but our two fur babies weren’t exactly up for gaming) about their favourite handheld games. Here’s our curated list, along with a few bonus suggestions.
Not all of these are brand-new releases—some games are just timeless.
Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown
Platform of choice: Nintendo Switch
My husband is hooked on this side-scrolling action-adventure on our family Nintendo Switch Lite. Highly rated by players, it’s easy to see why this game is a favourite. The fast-paced combat, acrobatic movements, and stunning 2D environments all help the game deliver an exciting blend of action and exploration.
You start the game with modest but helpful abilities. Along the way, you gain new powers, discover secrets, and upgrade your skills as you traverse the expansive world. The straightforward story allows the gameplay to take centre stage, while the graphics are a treat for the eyes.
Platform of choice: Android
Our 16-year-old thoroughly enjoys this game. He notes that it’s an addictive and rewarding gameplay keeps him coming back for more. It’s a puzzle game where players fit various block shapes into a grid to clear rows or columns. The challenge lies in strategising placement to avoid running out of space while aiming for high scores.
Block Blast is perfect for quick gaming sessions or unwinding during downtime with its simple yet satisfying mechanics, vibrant visuals, and endless levels. If you were/are a Tetris fan, you will enjoy this game.
Platform of choice: Android
Our 21-year-old is a recent fan of this post-apocalyptic role-playing game, and has even gotten his brothers into it, too. He loves exploring the wastelands, collecting loot, and strategising to defeat challenging bosses. You have to carefully manage your resources, balance repairs and ensure that you upgrade your skills through this game. It keeps things interesting.
The grind to grow his town and improve his arsenal adds a layer of strategy and satisfaction. He also enjoys Farlight 84. He says it’s “a fusion of Apex’s polished aesthetics and Fortnite’s chaotic fun.” This multiplayer battle royale allows players to bond with teammates, experiment with strategies, and participate in thrilling online tournaments.
Platform of choice: Android
The three boys are going through a Dragon Ball Z phase at the moment, so it came as no surprise to hear that Dragon Ball Legends was the pick for the 15-year-old. He says the fast-paced battles and the chance to play as iconic characters keep him entertained and he plays it at least once a day.
This is an action-packed mobile game where players collect and upgrade characters from the Dragon Ball universe. The competitive multiplayer mode means all three brothers often play together and the real-time combat system combines strategy and reflexes – and a lot of noise in our house when they’re all in it together. Overall, the game has an immersive storyline and is a fun one for the whole family.
Platform of choice: Steam Deck
This one’s my personal favourite. In this quirky and charming game, you play as a diver who spends the day fishing in the mysterious Blue Hole and nights helping at a sushi restaurant.
The gameplay balances exploration, resource management, and story-driven quests with challenges like catching rare ingredients for unique dishes. It’s a relaxing yet engaging experience that I can’t get enough of.
Platform of choice: Nintendo Switch
For cosy gaming, my favourite pick is Stardew Valley. It’s a classic that has stood the test of time, with recent updates making it even better. In a nutshell, you inherit a farm and spend your days growing crops, making friends in the nearby town, mining, and battling monsters.
What I love about this game is its simplicity and charm. I can pick it up and dip into it whenever I’m looking for peaceful gameplay.
Bonus Picks: Multiplayer Fun
For family gaming, try Monopoly Go or Scrabble Go. These digital adaptations of beloved board games let you play with others, bringing a modern twist to classic favourites. They’re perfect for some lighthearted competition and bonding time.
And that’s our list of our favourite hand-held games; perfect for summer. Gaming might look a bit different than the activities we grew up with, but it’s become a way to connect, unwind, and bond.
So, as you pack up for that family road trip or settle in for a quiet weekend at home, consider trying one of these games. Who knows? You might find yourself sneaking in “just one more level” after the kids have gone to bed.
Recharged is an independent site that focuses on technology, electric vehicles, and the digital life by Nafisa Akabor. Drawing from her 18-year tech journalism career, expect news, reviews, how-tos, comparisons, and practical uses of tech that are easy to digest. Nafisa is a traveller at heart, having been to 46 countries and counting. Find her unique travel tips and tricks on TikTok alongside tech & EV content.
