Your school Chromebook doesn’t have to be just for homework. In your downtime, try some of the best Chromebook games, but make sure to review your school’s policy to see which games you are allowed to play.
Note: some of the games on this list require Steam, so you will need to install Steam on your Chromebook.
Content
- 1. Alto’s Odyssey
- 2. Sonic the Hedgehog Classic
- 3. Fallout Shelter
- 4. Spelunky
- 5. Roblox
- 6. Kahoot!
- 7. PBS KIDS Games
- 8. Arcade Classics
- Frequently Asked Questions
1. Alto’s Odyssey
Price: Free with in-app purchases
Available On: Play Store
The sequel to Alto’s Adventure is one of the most mesmerizing and artistically accomplished games on Android and a completely standalone game. For me, it’s one of the most relaxing games to play after a long day, making it ideal for winding down after school.
Glide on a board across all kinds of desert landscapes, with mysterious cities, and ancient rock formations rising in the background. It has its share of challenges, but it’s also a serene experience with a soothing soundtrack that’s perfect to bliss out to on a lazy weekend afternoon.
2. Sonic the Hedgehog Classic
Price: Free with in-app purchases
Available On: Play Store
Classic video games always hold a special place in gamers’ hearts. Step back in time with Sonic the Hedgehog Classic, collecting rings while trying to defeat Dr. Robotnik, aka Eggman.
Yes, the speedy hedgehog you know and love is back in this remastered version for Android devices. I love being able to play as Sonic or Tails. And, for younger students, it’s a great intro to this classic. The ads get annoying sometimes, but it’s still fun.
3. Fallout Shelter
Price: Free with in-app purchases
Available On: Play Store | Steam
Fallout is one of the best Chromebook games to play on your school Chromebook. After all, what’s more fun than surviving and crafting in a post-nuclear world?
It’s the side-on spinoff of the main Fallout series, which tasks you with building and managing a nuclear bunker. It plays great and looks terrific, using those distinctive 50s-style cartoon graphics that players will recognize from the Pip-Boy. My favorite part is that you really don’t need the in-app purchases to progress and enjoy it.
4. Spelunky
Price: Free with in-game purchases (Chrome Web Store) | $15 (Steam)
Available on: Chrome Web Store | Steam
Spelunky is, in my eyes, a necessity in everyone’s game collection. The permadeath, a randomly generated mineshaft crawler, is a goldmine of unexpected events, crazy mishaps, and hilarious situations, as you work toward stealing the fabled treasure. This is based on the less-pretty 2008 version and not the more recent remake, but the systems and mechanics are all there.
It’s one of the few Chromebook games from the Chrome Web Store versus the Google Play Store, so it’ll play in your browser. The premise is simple, but as you may expect, it gets more challenging the longer you play, and there’s even a local co-op mode to play with friends.
5. Roblox
Price: Free with in-game purchases
Available On: Play Store
If you love variety, you’ll love Roblox. Yes, it was initially designed with a younger audience in mind, so it’s perfect for kids and families. But you’ll also find plenty of games that are more adult-themed in the catalog. That’s what is so unique about Roblox – an endless supply of games in one.
It’s an entire universe that lets you connect with others online. Hang out with friends and family, or meet others around the world. Check out various games created by other users, from incredibly simple to surprisingly complex. Some schools have approved Roblox, thanks to its STEM games and as an educational tool to help kids create their own games.
6. Kahoot!
Price: Free with in-app purchases
Available On: Play Store | Browser
Many schools block some of the best Chromebook games and want the focus to stay on educational tools and games instead. If that’s the case, try Kahoot! Some schools are already using the create-your-own trivia platform to gamify learning.
I may not be in school anymore, but I love creating quizzes for family game night or trying random Kahoots (quizzes) from others, including major brands like BBC and Marvel. It’s free for basic features, but check with your school, as you may already have access to the premium version for free.
7. PBS KIDS Games
Price: Free
Available On: Play Store
I know PBS KIDS Games may sound boring to older kids and college students, but for the younger kids, this is one of the best Chromebook games. The collection of more than 250 free games are not only entertaining, they’re educational.
Games are even available offline. It’s the perfect addition to your Chromebook at school, as it offers age-appropriates games for young kids to learn math, science, spelling, logic, and more.
8. Arcade Classics
Price: Free
Available On: Chrome Web Store
Enjoy arcade classics like Pac-Man, Tetris, Space Invaders, and more? I have Arcade Classics on my own Chromebook, and it’s a great way to relax after work. I just wish the game window was larger. For students, these simple games require a lot of strategy to achieve the more than 40 accomplishments.
It’s hard to beat getting nine games in one for free. It’s perfect for all ages, and even more restrictive schools may be likely to approve this one for students to play in their downtime. If your school doesn’t restrict which games you download, what are you waiting for?
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t I download any game I want?
Most K-12 schools restrict the games you can download and sites you can visit while using a school-issued Chromebook. Some schools do lift restrictions after school hours. Check with your school to see if there is an approved list of Chromebook games to play.
How can I access blocked games/sites?
While I don’t recommend going around your school’s restrictions, if the school doesn’t block VPN apps, try using a VPN to access the best Chromebook games.
Are there any free games that I don’t have to download?
Google has a variety of fun games to play directly in the browser. Schools usually don’t block Google, so play and have fun. You can also get free access to Microsoft Office on your Chromebook to create trivia games, text-based escape rooms, and more to play with friends.
Image credit: Unsplash. All screenshots by Crystal Crowder.
Crystal Crowder –
Staff Writer
Crystal Crowder has spent over 15 years working in the tech industry, first as an IT technician and then as a writer. She works to help teach others how to get the most from their devices, systems, and apps. She stays on top of the latest trends and is always finding solutions to common tech problems.
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