Our first pick
A PlayStation 5 Digital Edition
A straightforward way to play many of our recommended games from your sofa. Check each destination’s platform links before buying; some need a Nintendo Switch or computer.
Your Journey
Preparing for Your Journey
Six short stops between "where do I even start?" and your first evening of play. Take them in order, skip what you know, and come back whenever you like.
A games console
Good if you want the simplest set-up with your television.
PlayStation, Xbox or Nintendo Switch. Plug it into the TV, sign in, and play from the sofa with a controller.
A handheld
Good if you'd like to play in an armchair, in bed or on the train.
Like a console you hold in your hands, with its own screen. The Nintendo Switch also connects to a TV.
A computer you already own
Good if you already have a capable one.
The widest choice of games. A little more setting up, and some games need a more powerful machine.
A tablet or phone
Good for dipping a toe in before buying anything.
Many gentle, beautiful games play well on a tablet. Touch controls, no extra equipment.
Stop 2 of 6
Your packing list
- A screen you can see comfortably. Your TV is perfect.
- The device and its controller (most come with one). Stop 1
- Home internet, for downloading games and updates.
- An email address, for an account with the device maker.
- An unhurried hour and a cup of tea for the first set-up. Updates can take a while.
Stop 3 of 6
Learn the controller
It looks busy, but you only need five things to begin: move, look around, choose, go back, and pause.
Your controller, button by button →Stop 4 of 6
Make the settings work for you
Nearly every modern game has these. Look in "Settings", "Options" or "Accessibility" before you begin.
-
Subtitles on, and bigger
Most games let you make the text larger and add a dark background behind it.
-
An easier difficulty
Often called "Story" or "Easy". It isn't cheating; it's choosing the holiday over the endurance race.
-
Gentler camera
If moving around makes you feel queasy, turn down "camera shake" and "motion blur", and slow the camera speed.
-
Buttons that suit your hands
Many games let you change which button does what, or hold a button instead of tapping it repeatedly.
Stop 5 of 6
Pick your first game
Every destination we recommend is kind to beginners: beautiful, forgiving, and happy to wait while you look around.
See the destinations
Stop 6 of 6
Find some company
Questions are easier with friends. Our community is full of people who started exactly where you are.
Meet the community →