The vast majority of games on the Xbox 360 are aimed at the late teen, early 20s male market, however Microsoft and its third party developers have been working hard to diversify the available options. Obviously there are numerous titles out there aimed at children, such as the animation movie tie ins and mini game selections. These however aren’t usually up to much and to pick a really good game you need to shop around a bit. But that’s where this brief guide comes in.

The first game to look at is aimed at the younger children’s market and is based on the popular gaming and kids TV show Viva Piñata. This is infact a series of mini games, entitled “Viva Piñata Party Animals” and it does exactly what it says on the tin. Featuring all the characters from the television show including fudgehogs, fizzlybears and horstachios it’s sure to keep young children enthralled with it’s bright colors and simple play structure. The game consists of a selection of games to participate in under the guise of the Party Animals Championship Challenge, with characters aiming to be crowned top pinata.

The game can be played with up to four players either in one room or on Xbox Live and is full of good-natured fun for all.

The gameplay, graphics, sound and presentation is all top notch as you would expect from one of Rare and Microsoft’s collaborations and will no doubt be a great to spend some fun time with the kids.

A game aimed at older children and young adults alike, or at least those who possess a good amount of dexterity is Rock Band. You’ve probably seen the advertisements and think that playing a set of plastic instruments looks a bit silly and pointless, but as soon as you get started in the game you’ll be hooked. Players get the chance to play together as a band or against each other on either drums, guitar or vocals and can even design and personalize their own characters. Obviously the game does take some skill at the higher difficulty levels, but is still wholly enjoyable on the easiest setting.

The price may seem a bit steep but you do get a lot of kit in the box, and they are all quite sturdily put together, so perhaps you’ll need to make this a joint birthday and Christmas present.

Other games which might not on first look seem like normal family titles, but are in fact suitable for all ages are the many different sports games on offer on the 360. Covering many different sports including football, soccer, hockey, basketball and more there really is something for everyone. Nearly every game has the ability to go through a career or league mood with your favorite team, and what could be better or more beautiful than a family playing their way through from pre-season to superbowl in Madden NFL 09. Although if that’s not your thing then each game has a comprehensive versus mode and many others besides.

The 360 may not have the normal family titles you recognize from the other systems, but does give a unique play experience and is probably best suited to older families who like a good bit of competition.