There is a new MMOG (massively multiplayer online game) coming to an online universe near you. LEGO is going to be launching an online game that is described as "World of Warcraft, Second Life and Club Penguin all wrapped into one." In this universe, you will be able to build all the Lego creations you've ever dreamed of. Since it is online, users will be encouraged to play with other users - including being able to talk to each other online.
Because it has the LEGO brand associated with it, kids may be interested in it. The game will give parents the ability to limit some aspects of their children's game play, including time limits.
If your child asks about playing an online game like this one, or any other MMOG - understand that not all are the same. Some are mostly played by adults, and some are mostly played by small children.
Some things to watch for:
-- Some online games have a monthly fee
-- Some games require a lot of memory, a very high speed computer and high speed connection
-- Some games (especially those for small children) are very limiting to what can be said online. This helps keep small kids safe, but may be stifling for older kids and teens.
-- Even though some games don't have "adult content", they are intended for adults. If a young teen was playing, it may be disruptive to other adults playing (which can be frustrating for both people).
-- As part of your homework, check sites such as CommonSenseMedia.org for age-by-age recommendations.
Not Like the LEGOS I Used to Play With
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