Best Cross-Platform Games for Families to Play Together

12 May 2025

Let’s be real for a second. Getting the family together to do anything can sometimes feel like herding cats—hungry, highly competitive cats. But when it comes to gaming, the struggle is real, yet oh-so worth it. Why? Because cross-platform games are the ultimate peacekeepers. Got a kid glued to his Xbox? A partner swearing allegiance to the PlayStation? A teenager all-in on their shiny new gaming PC? No problem! Cross-platform games offer a digital Switzerland where everyone can play together, no matter what device they’re on.

So, grab your snacks, charge those controllers, and let’s dive into the best cross-platform games for families to bond over, laugh at each other’s fails, and maybe—just maybe—not rage quit (too much).

1. Minecraft – Build, Break, Repeat

Let’s start with the obvious: Minecraft. This game is basically the Swiss Army knife of family gaming. It’s creative, it’s fun, and honestly, it’s just plain addictive. Whether you’re building a replica of your dream mansion (complete with a non-functional jacuzzi, because yes), or taking the family on a survival quest while fending off blocky zombies, Minecraft delivers.

What makes it perfect? Two words: cross-platform compatibility. Got one kid on a PC and another on a mobile device? No problem. They can dig tunnels and accidentally set everything on fire—together. Plus, you’ll find plenty of “Dad, stop mining straight down!” moments.

Some family-friendly features:
- Creative Mode: Where imagination runs wild and nobody can die (great for younger kids!).
- Survival Mode: A bit more challenging, but hey, it’s a learning experience, right?

Why It’ll Make You Laugh: Watching Grandma try (and fail) to figure out how to craft a pickaxe is pure comedy gold.

2. Among Us – Space Sabotage and Family Showdowns

Who knew accusing each other of being an alien imposter could bring the family closer? Among Us is the game that blends deception with laugh-out-loud chaos. Whether you're playing on a Nintendo Switch, mobile phone, or PC, the family can unite (or ruthlessly backstab) while completing hilariously mundane spaceship tasks.

The beauty of Among Us? It’s simple to learn but oh-so-hard to master. Watch as your 10-year-old outfoxes everyone, expertly convincing you they’re not the imposter, only to eject you into space two minutes later.

Pro Tip for Parents: If the kids start ganging up on you, just yell, “Sus!” and pretend to align engines. Works almost every time. Sort of.

Why You’ll Love It: An excellent way to teach the kids valuable life skills like betrayal, deceit, and how not to trust anyone (kidding… kind of).

3. Fortnite – More Than Just a Battle Royale

Yes, I know what you’re thinking—“Fortnite? Isn’t that the game where everyone dances after they win?” Well, yes. But it’s also one of the best cross-platform games for families. While the battle royale mode might not scream “family bonding” at first, Fortnite’s creative mode changes the game (literally).

Creative mode allows you to build your own games and worlds. You can create obstacle courses, set up scavenger hunts, or even build a sprawling family fortress. Plot twist: It’ll probably end with everyone throwing grenades at it. Good times.

Plus, it’s free to play, so no need to break the bank. And let’s be honest—where else can you dress up as a banana and floss-dance your way to victory?

Why It Brings Families Together: Nothing builds teamwork quite like shouting, “Revive me!!!” at your kid as they wander off in search of loot.

4. Rocket League – Soccer, but With Cars

Imagine soccer, but instead of humans running around, it’s cars zooming across a field, flipping into the air, and colliding in ways that defy physics. Welcome to Rocket League. It’s chaotic, it’s fast-paced, and it’s ridiculously fun.

What’s even better is that Rocket League is cross-platform, so everyone can join in, regardless of their device. The simple controls make it easy for younger kids to play, but the game has enough depth to keep even the most skilled players entertained.

Pro Tip: Don’t underestimate the 6-year-old who insists on driving in circles. They might just accidentally score the winning goal, becoming the family hero for the day.

Why Families Love It: It’s kind of like Saturday morning soccer practice, but without the early wake-up call. Oh, and with rocket-powered cars. Did I mention that?

5. Overcooked! All You Can Eat – Cooking Chaos

Buckle up, because things are about to get messy—literally. Overcooked! is a cooperative cooking game that requires teamwork, communication, and the ability to laugh at how bad you are under pressure. Think of it as “Hell’s Kitchen,” but with adorable cartoon chefs and no Gordon Ramsay yelling in your ear.

Your mission? Work together to prepare dishes before the timer runs out. Here’s the catch: your kitchen is a hot mess. Maybe the counters are moving. Maybe there’s an iceberg drifting through the kitchen. Either way, chaos is the name of the game.

Why It’s Hilarious: Watching Dad try to chop onions while Mom accidentally sets the kitchen on fire isn’t just entertaining—it’s priceless.

6. Stardew Valley – A Chill Farming Escape

If high-energy games aren’t your thing, Stardew Valley offers a peaceful alternative. This charming farming simulator lets the family work together to grow crops, raise animals, and explore caves for treasure. Think of it as a virtual countryside retreat.

What’s great about Stardew Valley is its chill vibe. No battles, no pressure, just good old-fashioned farming. Plus, it’s cross-platform, so everyone can contribute to the family farm, whether they’re on a PC, console, or mobile.

Pro Tip for Families: Assign everyone a different job—Mom handles crops, Dad goes mining, and the kids take care of the animals. You’ll be running the most efficient farm (or the most chaotic) in no time.

7. Roblox – Endless Possibilities

If your family hasn’t tried Roblox yet, you’re in for a treat. This platform is less of a game and more of a gaming universe, with thousands of user-created games to explore. From obstacle courses to murder mysteries to virtual bake-offs, there’s something for everyone.

The magic of Roblox lies in its variety. Everyone can find a game they love, and you can jump between them with ease. Plus, it’s cross-platform, so it doesn’t matter if one kid is playing on a tablet while another is on a PC.

Parenting Win: Just keep an eye on those in-game purchases. Trust me; nothing kills family bonding faster than a surprise $50 charge for virtual hats.

8. Mario Kart Tour – Mobile Racing Madness

Now, I know what you’re thinking: “But Mario Kart is a Nintendo thing!” And you’d be right—except Mario Kart Tour is available on mobile devices, making it a cross-platform delight. Finally, a way to settle the eternal argument of who’s the best Mario Kart racer in the family.

The mobile version keeps the iconic mayhem of the original, with crazy tracks, power-ups, and plenty of opportunities to yell, “BLUE SHELL? AGAIN?!”

Why It’s Great for Families: It’s the perfect blend of nostalgia for parents and excitement for the kids. Bonus points if you can convince Grandpa to give it a try.

Final Thoughts: One Console to Rule Them All? Nah.

Cross-platform games are a family gamer’s dream come true. They let everyone connect no matter their device of choice. Whether you’re blowing each other up in Rocket League or bonding over the chaos of Overcooked!, there’s something magical about gaming together.

So, pick a game, grab your crew, and prepare for some laughs, maybe a little chaos, and a whole lot of fun. You might not win every game, but hey, at least you’re in it together. And really, isn’t that what family is all about?