Rekindling Family Gaming: A Fresh Look at Asymmetrical Multiplayer Experiences

Over seven years ago, I talked with a German start-up that aimed to transform television into a tool for bringing families together. The concept was simple: each family member could connect to a smart TV using their phones as controllers, creating a shared gaming experience. While the idea was promising, it never gained significant traction, largely due to limited marketing resources. This illustrates a well-known truth in the gaming industry—success often depends as much on marketing budgets as on innovative game design. However, the core concept of family gaming has evolved and is now seeing a resurgence.

Today, industry giants like Netflix and Amazon Games are entering this space, exploring ways to make family gaming more accessible. Recently, I discussed this shift with Tom Greenwood from RocketRide Games, and I’m excited to see the creative energy flowing into the family gaming niche.

In some of my previous articles, I focused on the growing generational gap between players over 40 and Generation Alpha, often discussing how games could be tailored for aging gamers . However, I missed an equally important point: the opportunity to bridge this gap by bringing these generations together in gaming. This presents a fascinating challenge.

Some Nintendo titles, such as Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Super Mario Party, are already relatively "age-neutral" (I’m coining this term!). They allow people of different ages to enjoy a shared gaming experience without one demographic feeling left out. But while these titles bring everyone to the table, I believe the future of family games lies in the asymmetrical multiplayer niche.

Asymmetry: The Key to Family Gaming

Let’s be honest: adults want to enjoy their gaming experience while still connecting with their younger family members. For family gaming to succeed, it must acknowledge the differences in age and engagement preferences. A successful family game should factor in these age-related disparities, allowing for cooperative gameplay where each participant can contribute in a way that feels rewarding and natural for their age and skill level.

One brilliant example is Nintendo’s Luigi’s Mansion 3, where players can team up as Luigi and Gooigi—two characters with distinct abilities that encourage cooperation without requiring the same skill level. This creates a perfect family dynamic where younger players can still actively contribute without frustration while adults can enjoy a deeper level of gameplay.

Similarly, It Takes Two, developed by Hazelight Studios, has become a standout example of how asymmetrical multiplayer can successfully blend storytelling and gameplay for families. The game offers a variety of challenges where each player is required to perform different roles. While it’s primarily aimed at older players, the fun and light-hearted nature of the game can appeal to families with older kids or parents who want a more cooperative experience with a narrative focus.

Recent Family-Oriented Game Successes

The success of family-friendly and asymmetrical games has become more evident in recent years. Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a phenomenal example of a game that transcends generations, allowing players to build, explore, and create in a low-pressure environment. It’s not only enjoyable for children, but also offers a soothing, creative outlet for adults. The social aspect of visiting each other's islands makes it a natural family gathering experience.

Another great example is Overcooked! All You Can Eat, where players must communicate and work together to manage increasingly chaotic kitchen scenarios. Its frantic yet fun nature brings family members together, encouraging cooperation and coordination, which players of all ages can enjoy.

In a slightly different but equally successful vein, Fortnite continues to attract players across all age groups. With its constant updates and new content, it remains relevant and accessible. While often seen as a game for younger players, its cross-generational appeal must be addressed, mainly through its creative mode, which allows family members to build and explore together.

The Future of Family Gaming

As the gaming industry continues to grow, so does the need for family-oriented experiences that cater to different age groups without compromising on fun or challenge. I believe the future of family gaming will lean heavily on asymmetrical multiplayer—where players can cooperate, but each can contribute in a way that suits their age and ability. This ensures that families can enjoy gaming together without one side feeling underwhelmed or left out.

Ultimately, adults still want to be adults, and kids want to have fun. Finding a balance that acknowledges these differences while making the gaming experience enjoyable for everyone will be the key to the success of future family-oriented games.

Let’s see where this creative dynamic takes us. In the meantime, developers, designers, and producers must rethink what "family-friendly" can mean in the years to come. And if you need a hand in building an age-neutral game (remember, I coined this term!), please contact us !