LumiKin
The Forest

Review · Action · PC · PlayStation 4

The Forest

By the LumiKin editors

Reviewed: 01 May 2026

PC · PlayStation 4

Endnight Games · 2018

LumiScore

73/100

Recommended

The Forest is a survival game that builds problem solving and strategic thinking in a hostile environment, with high levels of violence and horror.

Growth (BDS)

62

Risk (RIS)

12

Daily limit

120min

Age guidance

17+

Developmental benefits

B1Cognitive
0.76
B2Social-emotional
0.43
B3Motor
0.55

The Forest offers significant cognitive benefits through its demanding survival mechanics, requiring players to constantly problem-solve, strategize, and adapt to a dynamic and hostile environment. It also fosters emotional regulation as players navigate fear and stress.

Design risks

R1Dopamine pressure
0.27
R2Monetization
0.00
R3Social risk
0.00

The game features high levels of violence and horror content, including cannibalism and grotesque mutations, which may be disturbing for some players. While not designed with manipulative monetization or social mechanics, the open-ended survival can lead to extended play sessions.

Heads up

  • Monthly spendTypical real-money spend by engaged players: $0–0/mo.
Avg playtime~8 hReviewedApr 2026How scores are calculated →

Parents ask…

Is The Forest safe for kids?

LumiKin gives The Forest a LumiScore of 73/100, recommended for ages 17 and up. It scores well on developmental benefits with manageable risks.

What age is The Forest appropriate for?

LumiKin's rubric recommends a minimum age of 17+ for The Forest (M), based on benefits, risks, and content review.

How long should kids play The Forest?

LumiKin's recommended play time for The Forest is Up to 2 hours/day, calibrated to the game's dopamine, monetization, and social-pressure profile.

What are the main risks of The Forest?

The game features high levels of violence and horror content, including cannibalism and grotesque mutations, which may be disturbing for some players. While not designed with manipulative monetization or social mechanics, the open-ended survival can lead to extended play sessions.