Mom looking for game system advice for 8 yr old

[Calebsmom]

Hi,

My 8 yr old son has finally talked me into getting him a game system. But he is not sure what system he likes. He is not very experienced with video games and gets frustrated with them.

What video system would you recommend for an 8 yr old? What games would be good to start out with for a beginner at video games.

Thanks a lot,
CalebsMom

[Aku]

Get him a Nintendo Gamecube. They have the most games appropriate for an 8 year old. And they're cheap now.

[Lara]

I think the Mario games would be suitable. Shrek 2 and Digimon as well.

[E.T.]

Gamecube console is an excellent choice for first time/younger gamers.

Starfox is/was a big hit w/my 10 year old, as well as all the Mario games [especially the Super Smash series].
http://www.nintendo.com/systemsgcn

Consider too the original X-Box console as they can be had for cheap now. Though some titles for this console are aimed at mature gamers, there are several "E" & "E+" rated games that my 10 year old loves on X-Box [i.e Sonic Heroes, Spiderman, Shrek, Harry Potter to name a few].

Happy hunting!

[Aylmer]

Gamecube games are of excellent quality, and the overwhelming majority of them are suitable for children. However, keep in mind that most children's games are intended for the 9-13 year old (and older) audience. So make sure you do a bit of research (like the game reviews here at VGR) before plunking down a chunk of money for a game. The titles you are looking for will have an 'E' rating, but the controls may be very frustrating for an 8 year old. So, mom, it may be that you have to take up videogaming yourself!