Top 5 video games for children

We present the top 5 video games which make great Christmas gifts for young children.

1.

More than one way to solve the problem: Create

Create
(Xbox 360, PS3 (PS Move enabled), PC, Wii)

The name of EA's puzzler is a bit of a cheat – you do more playing than creating with Create, but that doesn't stop it from being immense fun. Create challenges users to use their grey matter a little in solving its brainteasers and offers multiple solutions in most instances. The puzzles themselves are physics-based, and while they start out laughably easy, Create ramps up the difficulty overtime. The game also allows players to share their handiwork and solutions online. A pleasing diversion for players of all ages.

2.

Yes sir, I can boogie: Just Dance 2 will have the whole family up and dancing in no time

Just Dance 2
(Wii)

If the idea of the children sitting around after a massive Christmas lunch is an anathema to you, make sure you stick a copy of Ubisoft's world-conquering dance game under the tree. With its simple controls, easy co-op play and lengthy list of songs in which contemporary hits rub shoulders with vintage cheese, Just Dance 2 will have the whole family bopping in the living room in no time.

3.

Your new virtual friend: Young gamers will commandeer your TV this Christmas to play Kinectimals

Kinectimals
(Xbox 360 with Kinect)

It practically goes without saying that if you have any young children and you plan on buying a Kinect sensor, then Kinectimals should be at the top of your shopping list. The adorable fur-balls of the island of Lemuria are sure to win the hearts, minds and complete attention of the tots this Christmas. Be warned, however, Kinectimals game boasts surprising depth and hours of gameplay, so your TV may be commandeered for the entirety of Christmas day. 

4.

Delightful fun for gamers of all ages: Super Mario Galaxy 2 

Super Mario Galaxy 2
(Wii)

Arguably the most essential title for Nintendo's Wii console from 2010, Super Mario Galaxy 2 is simply one of the best video games ever made. The latest game starring the portly plumber is vibrantly presented, boasts mind-bending level design and contains enough moments of pure joy to fuel a legion of Pixar films. It speaks to the genius of Nintendo that we could really recommend this title to anyone of any age, but for the purpose of this guide, Super Mario Galaxy 2 is sure to delight and bedazzle young gamers this year. 

5.

Zany fun for the whole family: Wii Party 

Wii Party
(Wii)

Nintendo hope to occupy your post-Turkey slump this Christmas with its latest family-friendly title. Send your Miis into competition in a digital board game, taking in some daft minigames along the way. There's too much reliance on luck, perhaps, with dice rolls dictating the flow of the game, but the minigames are easy-going fun and there's a sprinkling of great ideas. Plus, it's one of the few games you can have your Grandmother face off against Darth Vader in a present-stacking competition.