“There’s an imposter among us.”
By Jamie Lee
Updated: March 22, 2022
Originally Published: Dec. 3, 2021
Innersloth, the American developer behind Among Us, describes the game as “a party game of teamwork and betrayal.” If you’ve played Among Us, you know that’s an apt description. If not, you might have questions, since there’s a good chance your kids have been asking you to join in or referring to everything as “sus” — yes, even you. Whether your favorite gamer is looking for something new or you’d prefer they engage with a different game, there are plenty of alternatives to Among Us available.
While Among Us is undoubtedly the most popular social deduction game at present, it’s certainly not the only one. Convincing your child to try educational video games may be a challenge, but the following selections should be appealing. You might feel more at ease letting your tween play a game that isn’t, well, murder-focused. No matter the reason, these games offer great options for those who crave a bit of betrayal in their gaming experience.
What is Among Us?
Launched in 2018 for iOS and Android, Among Us became available for PCs the following year. It’s a multiplayer party game where you team up with four to 15 players, known as “crewmates,” to ready your spaceship for departure by completing tasks. However, there’s a twist! One (or more) of your teammates is an “imposter,” whose sole aim is to sabotage the mission and eliminate others without being detected. Essentially, it’s like a virtual murder mystery dinner party featuring charming characters in colorful spacesuits.
The gameplay splits into two roles – if you’re the “imposter,” your focus is on deception, quietly picking off crewmates and crafting convincing alibis when suspicion arises. If you’re a crewmate, your job is to complete tasks while keeping a watchful eye on your teammates. Everyone is a potential suspect, but not everyone is guilty.
Is Among Us Suitable for Kids?
Determining whether Among Us is appropriate for your child is ultimately a personal decision. The Apple store rates it for ages nine and up due to “infrequent/mild cartoon or fantasy violence” and “infrequent/mild horror/fear themes.” Common Sense Media recommends it for ages 10+, with some parents suggesting 11+ while children argue that 9+ is acceptable.
Key considerations include the game’s themes of lying and deception, as well as the presence of an unmoderated text chat during gameplay. Many players also use Discord for live voice chat, which introduces risks associated with interacting with strangers online, such as inappropriate language or hate speech.
Alternative Games Similar to Among Us
If you’re on the hunt for alternatives for your tween or teen, you’ve come to the right place. Here are some games that capture elements similar to Among Us:
- Project Winter
Survive in an icy landscape while unearthing the identity of a traitor in your midst. This multiplayer game emphasizes teamwork and strategy, rated for ages 13+. - Werewolves Within
In this virtual reality game, players identify the werewolf hidden among villagers. It’s non-violent and suitable for players aged 13 and up. - Barotrauma
This horror-themed submarine simulator offers cooperative gameplay, with the option to introduce a traitor in your team. Best suited for older teens and adults. - Triple Agent
A secret protection service game where players must unmask the “mole.” This game accommodates five to nine players and is rated for everyone. - Unfortunate Spacemen
Survive in space while avoiding a shapeshifting monster. This game does feature some mature content, including bloody graphics. - Hidden In Plain Sight
Players must stealthily complete tasks while blending into a crowd, rated for ages 10+ due to mild fantasy violence. - Town of Salem
Based on the Salem Witch Trials, this game involves identifying witches among townsfolk. It’s more graphic than its card game counterpart, with suggestions for ages 13+. - Secret Neighbor
A sneaky game set in the Hello Neighbor universe, where players must enter a neighbor’s home and avoid capture while searching for keys. Rated 13+. - Killer Queen Black
An exhilarating eight-player strategy game that combines quick matches with ranked play, rated E for everyone.
Additional Options to Consider
If you’re interested in more choices, consider these games:
- Deceit (not yet rated, for mature teens and adults)
- Betrayal.io (ESRB Teen: 13+)
- Enemy on Board (not yet rated, for mature teens and adults)
- Betrayal at House on the Hill expansion pack (not yet rated, for ages 12+)
- Spy Party (not yet rated, for ages 12+)
- Don’t Starve (ESRB Teen: 13+)
- Dichotomy (not yet rated, for ages 12+)
This article originally posted on Dec. 3, 2021.
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Summary
In summary, while Among Us has taken the gaming world by storm, there are numerous alternatives for those seeking a similar experience. From deception-filled multiplayer games to cooperative survival challenges, these options offer various levels of complexity and engagement.
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