7 Top-Rated Coding Video Games for Beginners

Learning to code can elevate your career or business if you find the right opportunity. However, many people need to be more confident in learning to code because of the traditional methods usually used to teach these in-demand skills. Fortunately, this has changed in the last couple of years, thanks to the introduction of coding video games.

These games make learning how to code fun and engaging, making it easier for many people to stick to the process for much longer. If you’re out there and you want to learn how to code, coding video games are the way to go. 

Related: Best 17 Coding Games for Kids To Start Their Software Engineering Journey

Flexbox Froggy 

Flexbox Froggy is a free coding game that lets learners practice writing CSS code simply and intuitively. This platform allows learners to play alone or compete with others in the community. 

Whether you play alone or with friends, this game helps you learn the intricacies of CSS and how to align page elements using Flexbox.

It has 24 levels, causing the game to increase in difficulty, ensuring a smooth learning curve gradually. By reaching the final level, you’ll have the necessary skills to work with Flexbox in future projects confidently.

CSS Diner

CSS Diner is another free coding game that anyone can use to learn and practice writing CSS code. With 32 levels, learners can cover everything they need about CSS selectors. 

It starts with challenges focused on working with IDs and classes. As you progress, you’ll unlock concepts like Pseudo-selectors, Last of Type Selectors, First of Type Selectors, and the Universal Selector. 

CSS Diner is highly recommended for those starting to learn CSS, as it provides a gradual learning experience without overwhelming beginners.

Robocode

Robocode is a free desktop programming game that combines fun and complexity. In this game, players code robot tanks and pit them against each other in battles. 

The goal is to develop artificial intelligence algorithms that enable your robots to succeed. The game allows learners to write their robot’s code in various languages, including Scala, Java, C#, and more.

Once you start playing Robocode, getting hooked on its challenges is easy. Even though the game was launched over two decades ago (in 2000), it is frequently updated and well-maintained, ensuring an enjoyable and up-to-date experience.

Human Resource Machine

Human Resource Machine is a top-rated (9/10) Steam coding game geared toward adults and known for its engaging puzzle-solving gameplay. 

When playing this game, players take on the role of an office worker who must automate their job using visual programming. Playing this game provides a unique perspective on coding and touches on important concepts such as memory management and logical flow.

It supports over 19 languages, allowing players to choose how to express their solutions. Human Resource Machine is highly regarded for its challenging puzzles and ability to make coding accessible and enjoyable for adult learners.

Code Karts 

Code Karts is a popular coding game for mobile devices. This coding game is specifically designed for children aged four and up, making it one of the best options for introducing pre-coding concepts. On iOS, Amazon, and Android devices, Code Karts presents logical puzzles like a raceway.

The game has over 70 levels and two modes, allowing kids to progress at their own pace and continue to be challenged as they master each level. The game provides an interactive and fun environment for kids to develop their problem-solving and logical thinking abilities.

Code Spark Academy 

Code Spark Academy is another popular game developed by Carnegie Mellon, MIT, and Princeton Research. This game is specifically designed for kids aged 5 to 10 but can also be played by teens and adults new to coding. 

Over the years, this game has received numerous awards, including recognition from the LEGO Foundation and Apple’s Editor’s Choice.

With a focus on creativity and learning through play, Code Spark Academy offers a variety of puzzles, creative tools, and coding challenges to keep children engaged and continuously learning. 

It is also important to note that this game regularly releases new content, ensuring children always have fresh activities to explore and expand their coding skills.

Kodable

Kodable is among the world’s top five most popular coding games. It is currently trusted by over 50% of schools in the US and has over 23 million users. 

This game is specifically designed for children aged 4 to 10 and aims to introduce core programming concepts in a fun and interactive way. Kodable offers K-2nd Grade Level for children aged 4-7 and 3rd to 5th Grade Level for older kids aged 7-10.

With the K-2nd Grade Level, children can use drag-and-drop programming, create personalized characters, and develop critical thinking skills. 

The 3rd to 5th Grade Level introduces JavaScript and Swift Programming, teaching object-oriented programming and guiding children toward real coding. With its comprehensive curriculum and engaging gameplay, Kodable is one of the best coding games you can consider if you want your kid to learn to code faster.

Final Thoughts

Playing any of the seven coding games we have just shared will help you learn to code faster than the traditional methods that usually involve watching a batch of video tutorials or reading documents. 

Video coding games make the learning process fun and encourage engagement, increasing the chances of learners sticking to the process more than traditional methods. So, whether you or your child is new to coding, these coding video games are an excellent place to start.