Hold the Line

• Tap, hold and swipe on phones and tablets
• Mouse or trackpad on a computer; arrow keys or WASD where the game asks for movement
• Press Escape or the exit button to leave the full-screen player

1. 1Read or listen to the stage goal, then look at the layout for the items to collect and the exit to reach.
2. 2Use arrow keys or on-screen buttons to move, and tap or press space for jumps and actions.
3. 3Collect items in a path rather than zigzagging; it keeps the stage short and the rating high.
4. 4Finish the stage, check your stars, and move on or replay.

• Free to play, nothing to install, no account needed
• Loads in the browser tab and opens full screen when you press Play
• Designed for a phone held upright
• Touch controls on phones and tablets, mouse and keyboard on a computer
• Listed under Junior

Hold the Line is free, runs in any browser with nothing to download, and suits a child who wants to play on their own for a bit. The stages are quick and the difficulty is kind, so most sessions end with a success rather than a sulk.

Suits children from about five upward who can read a few words and manage simple controls. Good for solo play on a tablet or laptop, with an adult nearby for the youngest.

Is Hold the Line too hard for a five-year-old?

Probably not, with a little help at first. Junior games are built for early school-age children. The first stages are gentle and the controls are simple.

Can I use a phone?

Yes, though a tablet gives more room for the on-screen buttons and makes small items easier to see and tap.

Does the game explain itself?

Yes. Most junior games show a picture or short line at the start of each stage and highlight the first thing to do.