Let’s Play Games
Over 200 million Americans play video games each year, and recently the AARP released new data indicating that over 52 million of those players are ages 50 and over.
Studies have shown that there are possible advantages to gaming for older adults, including better cognitive health and a decrease in social isolation. With games ranging from puzzles to open world epics, there are lots of options to try out.
If you are an older adult thinking about trying out a few new games this year, Homethrive has compiled a list of games to get you hooked.
Smart Phone or Tablet Games
If you enjoy a good game, but don’t have access to a console, users of iPhones, Androids, and tablets still have access to an entire library of games, many of them free to play. Casual gamers may prefer these options over ones that keep you in front of a TV or computer.
| Platform | Game Title | Description |
| Online | Wordle | A challenging daily puzzle that offers six attempts to guess a five-letter word, with hints given in the form of colored tiles. |
| iOS, Android | Sudoku | One of the more popular number puzzle games is also available in app-form on your phone or tablet. Level up with Killer Sudoku for an extra challenge. |
| iOS, Android | Chess | This strategy game is also available on your phone with the option to play against a bot or another person anywhere in the world. |
| iOS, Android | Jigsaw Puzzles Epic | If you are a fan of puzzles, here is the game without the mess (and the missing pieces). Create an image with one of your own pictures or else choose from one of the 20,000 options available. |
| Online, iOS, Android | Candy Crush Saga | A sweet and easy puzzle game to keep you occupied in those dull moments when you need a bit of color. |
| iOS, Android | Elevate – Brain Training | A brain-boosting and award-winning game to help you hone your quick thinking and cognitive skills. |
| Online, iOS, Android | 2048 | Combine tiles to add up to the coveted number 2048. A relaxing puzzle game even for those who aren’t big fans of math. |
| iOS, Android | Words with Friends | A Scrabble look-alike that keeps you connected with friends as you attempt to out-score the other. |
| Online, iOS, Android | Tetris | This 80’s puzzle game needs no introduction, and is still available to play no matter how you game. For Tetris on-the-go, explore your phone’s app options. |
| PC, Online, iOS, and Android | Solitaire Bliss | For fans of card games, Solitaire Bliss offers several play options, including Spider Solitaire and FreeCell. |
| iOS, Android | Wheel of Fortune | Based on the TV show, this game drops you into the popular puzzle game and challenges you to spin the wheel. |
| iOS, Android | Lumosity | Another brain training game collection with the goal of improving memory, processing speed, and problem solving. |
| iOS, Android | Angry Birds 2 | A game about slingshotting birds into pigs. Because not all games need to train your brain. |
| iOS, Android | Pokemon GO! | Get up and walking around with this augmented reality scavenger hunt game. Catch Pokemon, visit gyms, and discover new places as you go. |
| iOS, Android | Kami 2 | Back to the puzzle games with Kami 2, where you try to achieve a perfect result by unifying the puzzles’ color in as few moves as possible. |
| iOS, Android, Facebook | Scrabble Go | A Words with Friends alternative, Scrabble Go lets you connect with friends and family in this classic board game online. |
PC and Console Games
Review the following list if you are wondering where to start when it comes to console and computer games. While most everything can be played on a PC with a Steam account, there are also several console options available, including older used versions for a budget buyer. Some options, like the Nintendo Switch, can be played portably as well as on your TV at home.
Remember to make sure that the games that you want are compatible with the system you have access to, and check your local library for games to rent for free as well.
| Platform | Game Title | Description |
| PC | World of Warcraft | This may not be the first game that comes to mind for older adults, but surprisingly, there have been studies that indicate that this online multiplier role playing game may actually boost cognitive ability in those 60 years and older. |
| PC, Mac, PlayStation, Xbox | Sims 4 | This life simulation game is all about creating characters and playing house. For those that don’t necessarily want to explore a whole new world or fight anyone, this one’s for you. |
| Switch | Animal Crossing | A feel-good favorite from the social distancing days, Animal Crossing is a peaceful game where you develop your island, create your home, and interact with the animals that come to visit. |
| PC, Mac, Xbox, PlayStation, Switch, iOS, Android | Stardew Valley | For fans of Animal Crossing and maybe a bit of real-world gardening, this alternative follows a character who has inherited a farm in a place called Stardew Valley. Start a new life with this farm simulation game, develop your land, and meet the locals. |
| PlayStation, Switch, Xbox, PC | Monopoly Plus | If you are a fan of the popular board game, then try out the multiplayer game to watch your board evolve in real time as you play. |
| PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch | Skyrim | For the gamer that is comfortable with more action-based games, Skyrim is an open-world game that gives you total freedom to explore any quest, location, or battle that suits you. Fight dragons, learn magic, or go off-quest and punch a bear. Sky(rim)’s the limit. |
| Switch, PlayStation, Xbox | Wheel of Fortune | For another way to spin the wheel and join in on the show, this puzzle game is available on most new consoles. |
| Switch | Tetris 99 | Kick Tetris up a notch by playing on your console. Consider this your training for the Tetris options also available on VR. |
| Switch | Club Room Games | Choose between 51 different board and tabletop games to play with friends, family, or the computer itself. |
| PC, Mac, Xbox, PlayStation | Untitled Goose Game | A puzzle game in which you are a goose on loose with the sole goal of bothering people. |
Virtual Reality (VR) Games
There are several headset options when it comes to virtual reality nowadays. This option requires wearing some gear over your eyes, holding onto two controllers, and having a clear space for movement. Keep pets and fall hazards away from the gaming area, and have a second person nearby if you can, especially if you are playing a more action-centered game.
| Platform | Game Title | Description |
| Meta Quest | First Steps | This tutorial introduces you to the world of VR. It’s a great way to get started without being overwhelmed. |
| Meta Quest | Real VR Fishing | A fishing simulator for the off season and rainy days. |
| Meta Quest | BRINK Traveler | Get the postcard experience with this travel app, and explore parts of the world that you haven’t been to (yet). |
| Meta Quest | Walkabout Mini Golf | Find “true-to-life” physics on 8 creative golf courses in this game that is also available in multiplayer. |
| Meta Quest | Wander | Another travel game for the older adult wanting to explore the world without the cost and hassle of getting on a plane. |
| Meta Quest | Shores of Loci | A narrated puzzle game with stunning landscapes to accompany your problem-solving. |
| Meta Quest | Nature Treks VR | This peaceful option allows the player to take a stroll through a range of environments from underwater to up in space. Take a break from the puzzles, brain teasers, and competition with this one, and just enjoy the view. |
If you would like to play more interactive games and learn more about Homethrive’s programs, come and join us for a virtual event by registering here or call us at (844) 343-8714 (TTY 711).