Thought-Provoking Nonviolent Games for Tweens and Teens

Last updated: July 17, 2025

Frequently, people focus on the challenges that players face when gaming: Are your reflexes fast enough? Are your strategies clever enough to outwit the computer or other players? Have you selected the right group of characters to destroy your enemies? But there are plenty of games that don't focus on these traits at all. Here, taking your time to ponder the story and explore the environment is more important than the number of points you score or enemies you defeat. In fact, in these games, you won't commit any violence or engage in combat at all (any aggressive sequences are background items designed to advance the plot or the story). Looking to use your brain instead of your brawn? Look no further than the titles below. We also have lists for players interested in games that promote critical thinking, games that promote empathy, or games that promote collaboration.