Best Family Co-Op Games for the Xbox 360

If you are like many gamer dads you may find it difficult to balance your gaming and family time. Fortunately there are some great family friendly Xbox 360 games you can play together with your family and make some great memories. There is no greater feeling than completing a mission or game together with your children. Not only can gaming be fun for everyone, but you really do learn how to work together and solve problems. This is time they will cherish when they get older and have kids of their own.

Here is a list of my family's favorite co-op Xbox 360 games:

1- Toy Story 3: If you have a Toy Story fan in your house, then this game is a no-brainer. The great thing about this game is you can play through story as any character together. My favorite part of the game is toy box mode. Here you can work together to build the town and complete a variety of mission.

2- Lego Star Wars, Pirates of the Caribbean, Harry Potter, Batman, and Indian Jones: All of the Lego games emphasis teamwork and cooperation. There unlimited ways to play the game with you kids. You can't go wrong with any of the games. Whatever your kids are into at the time will most certainly keep everyone busy for a long time.

3- Rayman Origins: If you ever have played New Super Mario Bros for the Wii, then you have an idea of what Rayman Origins is all about. This side scrolling platforming game can be played by up to 4 people on the same screen. If someone dies then you can save them by just touching them. This creates a frustration free time with your kids.

4- Shrek Forever After: I know, it's based on a movie but this licensed game is actually fun. A lot of games based on movies really aren't developed that great. I have to say that my family had a lot of fun with this game. Up to for players can play through the story as any of the characters. This is a great way to spend a Friday night instead of just watching the movie.

5- Cars 2: Yes, again another movie game. This is one of the few movie games that is worth playing. My boys love the Cars movies and loved playing this game just as much. It is nice change of pace from controlling characters and racing, but it isn't all competition. There is lengthy story mode as well as a free play mode where you can play split screen.

These are the cream of the crop as far as the Xbox 360 is concerned. Sure there are better games out there, but none that can be played cooperatively with kids and be enjoyed by the entire family. Have fun gaming with your family!