Best Games About Parenting – Investment Policy

Parenting can be quite challenging, whether it’s in the real world or in video games. You wouldn’t find too many games centered around parenthood, but there are enough of them to keep you engaged for some time. However, these games aren’t typically blockbuster hits, except perhaps The Sims where family life isn’t necessarily everyone’s primary concern.

If you’re curious about venturing into this gaming niche but aren’t sure where to begin, let me offer some suggestions that span various genres. All these upcoming games revolve around the themes of parents and children, and they each bring something unique to the table. The emphasis here is on presenting a diverse array of options. Additionally, I’ll throw in a couple of bonus recommendations to help you discover similar games worth exploring.

Without a doubt, The Sims 3 and The Sims 4: Parenthood stand out as the most acclaimed family simulation games ever created, boasting a great deal of complexity. Although they lack direct focus on parenthood, unlike other lesser-known titles specifically dedicated to this theme (and not as widely recognized as The Sims), Maxis’ projects remain excellent suggestions for a wide array of players.

Camille and Laura

A Game About A Single Mother

Beginning with a down-to-earth game centered around parenting, “Camille and Laura” portrays an authentic depiction of everyday life. Essentially, you follow the main character’s routine without any extraordinary events, as they navigate the common pressures of being a single parent to a child starting school. Alongside ensuring Camille has all she needs, Laura also works at a desk job that may not be particularly exciting but allows her to support the one who means the world to her.

Over a week’s span in a mother’s life, the minimalistic point-and-click adventure, titled Camille and Laura, offers an engaging experience without becoming overly lengthy or didactic. It boasts a delightful visual aesthetic that embodies childhood innocence while also being unexpectedly emotive, and its gameplay is uncomplicated yet suitable for the narrative it presents.

In simpler terms, it’s rare to find games similar to “Camille and Laura,” but if you’re looking for something comparable, life simulation games might be your best bet. That’s because they provide a touch of everyday realism.

Volcano Princess

A Modern Take On A Classic Daughter Raising Sim Formula

One compelling way to rephrase this in a more natural and readable manner is:

“Without a doubt, one of the most renowned ‘raising sim’ games from the 2020s thus far is Volcano Princess. This game draws noticeable inspiration from a well-known classic (which will be acknowledged later). The ‘Raising My Daughter’ genre has several iterations within the parenting category, and Volcano Princess offers arguably the most comprehensive and user-friendly interpretation. You assume the role of a father caring for a girl destined to rule the Volcano Kingdom, nurturing her from infancy to adulthood. While you won’t experience her entire life, you’ll guide her towards independence.

The game titled ‘Volcano Princess’ offers a wealth of features, including character development akin to role-playing games, multiple conclusion scenarios, numerous potential romantic interests, engaging combat mechanisms, and social interactions. The visual novel segments boast clear and well-detailed artwork, often employing warm colors that reflect the game’s generally tranquil ambiance. Although not devoid of tension, ‘Volcano Princess’ is predominantly charming and cute.

Honorable Mentions:

The game titled “Volcano Princess” appears to draw influence from the pioneering title “Princess Maker“, known for launching the genre of simulation games focused on raising daughters. Although the initial game may seem outdated, its first sequel is widely appreciated and offers several updated versions that are worth checking out.

A few other games:

Ciel Fledge: A Daughter Raising Simulator
Long Live the Queen (You are the daughter and not a parent, but the game is somewhat similar)

Story of Seasons: A Wonderful Life

Maintain A Farm, Raise A Family, and Live A Low-Key Life

As a dedicated Harvest Moon/Story of Seasons fan, I’ve got to say that many games within this series feature family mechanics, but their significance can really swing all over the place. One standout example from the franchise is Animal Parade, but it’s A Wonderful Life that truly shines a spotlight on family dynamics. This gem originally saw the light of day on GameCube and PS2, but in 2023, it got a fresh makeover that’s probably the version most players will give a go these days.

In the game “A Wonderful Life,” you’ll soon discover that managing a farm is just the beginning. The game encourages you to socialize, find a companion, and start a family. As you progress through decades, raising a family becomes the core aspect of the gameplay. Given that it was first released in 2003, “A Wonderful Life” features relatively simple mechanics and relationships that are easy to understand and develop. The game’s pace is leisurely, but over time, you’ll have the opportunity to shape your children’s interests and experiences.

Honorable mention:

Let’s rephrase that for a more natural and easy-to-understand style:

Let me bring up The Sims 4: Parenthood again, as it’s definitely worth mentioning. Speaking of games that focus on family life, Stardew Valley takes inspiration from Harvest Moon and even allows you to have children. If you’re interested in generational games, there are some great options like Echoes of Plum Grove and Chinese Parents.

Endling – Extinction is Forever

Survive And Protect Your Cubs

Greetings! It doesn’t always have to be human characters in parenting-themed games. While animal-centric games aren’t abundant, they do exist – one such example is the relatively new game named _Endling_.

The game titled “Endling” offers a simplified yet well-executed survival experience, serving as an ideal introduction to the genre due to its limited mechanics and a shorter campaign compared to most other titles. This game uniquely focuses on the theme of parenting, compelling you to regularly consider the broader implications of your decisions, even if it means temporarily discomforting one or two cubs for the greater good of the group. It won’t take long before you develop a strong sense of guardianship over your little ones.

Honorable mention:

The Shelter series stands out as the ultimate animal rearing simulation series. Instead of sticking with Shelter, we opted for Endling to mix things up, but let me tell you, Shelter is exceptional in every way. Now, while it doesn’t share the same theme, This War of Mine: The Little Ones offers a comparable experience.

The Little Ones offers a comparable gaming experience.

My Child Lebensborn

A Heavy Story About Bullying And Isolation

In general, most simulation games have a lighter tone, although they may occasionally delve into mature subjects. However, the gameplay primarily revolves around mechanics, with the story typically following along. However, the game “My Child Lebensborn” stands out as it focuses more on responding to your newly adopted child’s circumstances rather than shaping them. As suggested by its title, you are caring for a Lebensborn child, who was taken from their biological parents by the Nazis. At school, your child encounters widespread bullying and isolation. It is then up to you to help navigate them through these challenging times, while also ensuring their basic needs are met.

My Child Lebensborn” may not cater to everyone’s preferences. If you’re seeking a comprehensive and intricate upbringing simulation, where you can shape every aspect of your child’s life, this game might fall short. However, if you’re yearning for an intense and thought-provoking journey that delves into a distinct scenario, there’s nothing quite comparable. The original version was launched in 2018, but a revamped edition came out in 2023.

2025-08-15 11:12