Xbox Solution: 

Xbox Sports Games for Children: Play On!

By Christina Mariannino

There are a ton of sports games available for Xbox® that are perfect for younger gamers; in fact, sports games may be one of the most widely accepted type of games on Xbox, appealing to a huge, diverse group of gamers. Having said that, it is important to note that the benefits sports games have for children really have not been identified clearly, and I hope to change some of that throughout the course of this article.

Everyone Can Play and Learn
One of the biggest benefits children derive from all sports is the ability to foster the concept of teamwork. With few exceptions, almost all sports titles are team-based. Whether you are relying on a person sitting next to you playing the game with you, or a teammate controlled by the game's artificial intelligence (A.I.), working together to come out on top is the key. In addition, the sense of accomplishment after winning is enough to bring a smile to about any kid's face.

If you have a child that has just joined the football team, for example, a football game will not only demonstrate teamwork, but also display the proper rules of the game and the various options available in certain situations. This helps with decision making down the road, when they encounter similar situations on the playing field.

FIFA Soccer 2005 plays just like real soccer.

One thing often overlooked is that children, who otherwise might not be playing a certain sport on the field or the court, can almost always play the game on Xbox. There are various reasons a child may not be able to play the game in real life; perhaps they have two left feet (bad coordination), or they are too young for the school or league requirements. The reasons could be more serious as well, such as asthma, fatigue, or a debilitating disease or injury. Even with these obstacles, children can still experience the game, albeit virtually, on Xbox.

Throughout my experience with Xbox and video games in general I have come across just about everything, but one of my most memorable experiences was a child who had lost full use of one of his hands. Through the use of a third-party controller made specifically for handicapped gamers, he could still play out his dream of being an NFL quarterback. There are joystick-style controllers available that have customizable buttons, as well as companies that will manufacture specialty products suited for your needs.

Imagine the proud feelings of a child with limitations after winning a match against someone else without any obstacles. I can tell you firsthand, seeing their joy and elation is priceless, and the self-esteem gained can be just as valuable.

Sports titles, especially one where a career mode is available, allow children an outlet to be a part of something that they enjoy, and a part of something that is safe. They also allow a young athlete to continue their love of the sport during the off-season. It doesn't matter if it's 20 degrees below zero outside, you can still fire up Xbox for a game of baseball, golf, or tennis.

Take Me Out To the Ball Games
I'm not saying that sports video games on Xbox are a substitute for some good old fashioned games of catch at the park, but they certainly are a great addition to the mix to keep your child entertained and engaged in a healthy activity, especially when the weather or other factors of life say otherwise. You know what sports your child is interested in, but don't be afraid to introduce them to games featuring sports they don't play or watch.

SSX 3 is a fun snowboarding game.

Sports titles range from golf to tennis, baseball, football, boxing, and much more; even though you may find golf boring to watch on TV, it's a blast to play. The same could be said for any sport. Rent a few different titles and see what happens. Play the games with your children and use it as a bonding tool. For the really young gamers out there, the only sports titles I recommend you use caution with are the extreme sports type, as some of them have foul language. A quick look at the ESRB rating and the back of the box should clear up any doubts about the content of the game.

My intention was to make a short list of recommended titles, but doing so would almost be like playing favorites. Take a peak at what sports titles are listed on the Xbox Family Center and you'll have a good idea of the sports games we're talking about.

Whichever games you decide to choose is up to you, the important part is the bonding, learning, and developmental processes you are about to experience with your child or children, so have fun with it!

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