Massively http://massively.joystiq.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://massively.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[MMO Family: The state of the game (at school)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/mmo-family-the-state-of-the-game-at-school/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/mmo-family-the-state-of-the-game-at-school/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/mmo-family-the-state-of-the-game-at-school/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

laptop learning
When you think of kids and video games, the question that always comes up is this: What are they getting out of playing them? Usually, MMOs, even MMOs aimed at kids, are big on fun but light on learning. So it was refreshing to see teacher Ben Bertoli launch a Kickstarter project to promote development of his personal project ClassRealm into what could be a potentially valuable tool in the classroom.

So why haven't we seen more educational MMOs, and why has there been a gap when it comes to technology at home vs. at school? In this week's MMO Family, we'll look a few issues with gaming and learning.

Continue reading MMO Family: The state of the game (at school)

MassivelyMMO Family: The state of the game (at school) originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 May 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ben-bertolicasualchildrenchildrens-mmosclassrealmfamilyfamily-friendlyfeaturedibookskaren-bryankid-friendlykidskids-gamesmmo-familyopinionschools-and-gamingschools-and-technologyteachingwhere-in-the-world-is-carmen-sandiegoWed, 16 May 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: How helpful are those ESRB ratings?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/mmo-family-how-helpful-are-those-esrb-ratings/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/mmo-family-how-helpful-are-those-esrb-ratings/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/mmo-family-how-helpful-are-those-esrb-ratings/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

ESRB Rating
Quick, what's the ESRB rating symbol of your favorite MMO of choice? And if you know that, what are the content descriptors that account for your game's rating? If you got them right, bravo! According to the ESRB's official poll, 85% of parents with children who play video games are aware of the ratings system. For those not familiar, here's the deal: The Entertainment Software Rating Board began in 1994 with the goal of providing a standard set of ratings and descriptors to help adults choose appropriate games for children.

But the real question is, are ESRB ratings accurate when it comes to MMOs? The poll also claims that 65% of parents regularly check a game's rating before making a purchase, but are those ratings as helpful when choosing an MMO for your children? Read on for a look at why the E, T, and AO symbols might actually deserve an F.

Continue reading MMO Family: How helpful are those ESRB ratings?

MassivelyMMO Family: How helpful are those ESRB ratings? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 May 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualchildrenchildrens-mmosesrbesrb-ratingseveeverquest-iieverquestiifamilyfamily-friendlyfeaturedkid-friendlykidskids-gamesmmo-familyopinionwizard101wowWed, 02 May 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: Mind your massively multiplayer manners revisited]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/mmo-family-mind-your-massively-multiplayer-manners-revisited/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/mmo-family-mind-your-massively-multiplayer-manners-revisited/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/mmo-family-mind-your-massively-multiplayer-manners-revisited/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

south park
In this week's MMO Family column, I want to dig deeper into something that came up as a result of the last edition, and that's the perception of younger gamers as generally being too immature, being too flighty, and lacking the social skills to be fun groupmates and guildmates in our MMOs. There were some great points all around, with some arguing that kids aren't good guildmates because of their age and others even arguing that some kids are more mature than adults.

Let's look at things a little differently this week. Suppose you are guilded or grouped with your son/daughter/little brother/niece/nephew/best friend's kid/etc. You can't blow him off because of your relationship to him or her, so what do you do to make sure he or she isn't that kid who drives everyone crazy in-game? I'm revisiting one of Lisa Poisso's past articles to see what rules of age etiquette we can come up with in this crazy age of gaming.

Continue reading MMO Family: Mind your massively multiplayer manners revisited

MassivelyMMO Family: Mind your massively multiplayer manners revisited originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualchildrenchildrens-mmosfamilyfamily-friendlyfeaturedkid-friendlykidskids-gamesmmo-etiquettemmo-familymmo-mannersopinionpolite-gamersWed, 18 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: Do kids belong in guilds?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/04/mmo-family-do-kids-belong-in-guilds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/04/mmo-family-do-kids-belong-in-guilds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/04/mmo-family-do-kids-belong-in-guilds/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Guild Hall in EQII
In my regular columns at Massively, I enjoy taking a look at various topics surrounding family-friendly MMOs and common issues in guild management. So it seemed natural to take the two subjects and combine them for this week's MMO Family. Gamers are growing older, and we're seeing an increasing presence of younger players, even in the more serious "adult" games like Lord of the Rings Online and EverQuest II. For those who play MMOs with their children, it might seem reasonable to seek a guild tag for them, but that might not sit well with your guild peers.

Should kids be allowed in guilds? Are there any benefits to sharing a tag with your children, or are they better off staying unguilded?

Continue reading MMO Family: Do kids belong in guilds?

MassivelyMMO Family: Do kids belong in guilds? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advicecasualchildrenchildrens-mmosfamilyfamily-friendlyfeaturedguildguild-adviceguild-leadershipguild-managementguildskaren-bryankid-friendlykidskids-gamesleadershipmmo-familyopinionWed, 04 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: Is free-to-play bad for kid-friendly MMOs?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/mmo-family-is-free-to-play-bad-for-kid-friendly-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/mmo-family-is-free-to-play-bad-for-kid-friendly-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/mmo-family-is-free-to-play-bad-for-kid-friendly-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Super Hero Squad Online
If you've ever gone shopping with kids, you know how much of a nightmare-inducing proposition it can be. Everywhere from toy stores to department stores to seemingly innocuous grocery stores, there's a battle raging between parents and their children, which usually ends with tears, grey hairs, and the infamous word, "Pleeeeeease??" (Pleeeeeease should actually have its own entry in the Oxford Dictionary because it has a completely different meaning from its polite cousin, "please").

The only thing that helps parents get through it is the knowledge that they get a respite once they get home. Not so anymore, though, because there's a second front that's opened, and the new battleground is taking place on our computer screens. Those high-pitched appeals that echo throughout the store aisles are now filling our family rooms, kitchens, and dining rooms. And while many people are singing the praises of the free-to-play model in MMO games, it's actually the biggest contributor to the begging-battles at home. Let's take a look at why free-to-play and kids MMOs are not a match made in heaven.

Continue reading MMO Family: Is free-to-play bad for kid-friendly MMOs?

MassivelyMMO Family: Is free-to-play bad for kid-friendly MMOs? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualchildrenchildrens-mmosfamilyfamily-friendlyfeaturedfree-to-playjesse-schellkaren-bryankid-friendlykidskids-gameslead-genmicrotransactionsmmo-familyopinionWed, 21 Mar 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: Kid-friendly MMO roundup, part 1]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/mmo-family-kid-friendly-mmo-roundup-part-1/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/mmo-family-kid-friendly-mmo-roundup-part-1/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/mmo-family-kid-friendly-mmo-roundup-part-1/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Little space heroes
With all of the buzz centered around "grown-up" MMO titles like Star Wars: The Old Republic and Guild Wars 2, it's easy for the kid-friendly games to get lost in the shuffle. There may not be as many kid titles on the horizon, but for the games that are currently out there, there's been an amazing amount of activity going on in these virtual worlds.

I decided to take a peek at some of my (and the kids') favorites, along with a few games that we've done first impressions on, to see what they've been up to lately. Since there are too many great kid-friendly MMOs out there to fit into one column, this will be the first of what will probably be many follow-up entries covering other games, so if you don't see your favorite family-friendly game here, fear not!

Continue reading MMO Family: Kid-friendly MMO roundup, part 1

MassivelyMMO Family: Kid-friendly MMO roundup, part 1 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazing-societybrowserbrowser-basedcasualchildrenchildrenschildrens-mmosclone-warsclone-wars-adventurescwaf2pfamilyfamily-friendlyfeaturedfree-to-playgazillionkaren-bryankidkid-friendlykidskids-gameskids-mmokids-mmoslittle-space-heroeslobbylshmarvelminigamemmo-familyopinionsci-fantasysci-fishsosoesony-online-entertainmentstar-warssuper-hero-squadsuper-hero-squad-onlinesuperherotcgthe-amazing-societytrading-card-gamewebkinzWed, 07 Mar 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: What kids MMOs can learn from markers, Jackpot, and Chutes and Ladders]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/mmo-family-what-kids-mmos-can-learn-from-markers-jackpot-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/mmo-family-what-kids-mmos-can-learn-from-markers-jackpot-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/mmo-family-what-kids-mmos-can-learn-from-markers-jackpot-and/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Markers
Play is important. Whether you're a kid or a grown-up, play has an important role in our lives, and video games are taking an increasingly large percentage of our playtime these days. But for kids' play in particular, there's always a question about the quality of video game time and whether or not it's actually just a waste of time.

Kid-friendly MMOs are a relatively new segment of the MMO industry, but it often feels like they're just grown-up MMOs with kid-friendly graphics. Sometimes, the games are even stripped of the grown-up features in an attempt to make them easier, but that often results in a less than compelling game. Here's a quest; do it. Here's a creature; zap it. Here's a pet; hug it. Here are some clothes and decorative items; buy them. I may sound a bit jaded, but that's only because I think kid-friendly MMOs can be so much better than they currently are.

To do that, we have to step back and examine how kids play, and studios must concentrate game design around that. In this week's MMO Family, I'll be looking at three areas of kids' play and exploring why games should look to Magic Markers, Jackpot, and Chutes and Ladders for inspiration.

Continue reading MMO Family: What kids MMOs can learn from markers, Jackpot, and Chutes and Ladders

MassivelyMMO Family: What kids MMOs can learn from markers, Jackpot, and Chutes and Ladders originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualchildrenchildrens-mmoschutes-and-laddersfamilyfamily-friendlyfamily-friendly-mmosfeaturedfree-realmsjackpotkaren-bryankid-friendlykidskids-gameskids-mmosmagic-markersminecraftmmo-and-imaginationmmo-familyopinionWed, 22 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do children have a place in MMOs?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/the-daily-grind-do-children-have-a-place-in-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/the-daily-grind-do-children-have-a-place-in-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/the-daily-grind-do-children-have-a-place-in-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

World of Warcraft
Today's discussion topic needs a smidge of clarification. I'm not asking you whether or not real-life kids should be playing MMOs, as plenty already do and it's great to be raising a future crop of gold farmers and extreme fashion designers.

What I am asking is whether child NPCs have a place in MMOs. When you think about it, most of our virtual worlds are nearly devoid of anyone under the age of 18 (except if you're in certain Asian titles where it seems like nobody, including yourself, has hit puberty yet). Whole cities are bustling with merchants and kings, yet not a single child is to be seen. If there are kids, they tend to be in place for a one-time unique quest or a special event, such as World of Warcraft's Children's Week.

But with all of the war, slaughter, and volatile situations, is it a good thing that someone has whisked these kids off to safety? Would MMOs be more questionable with their content if a kid was to come stumbling along while you were skinning a boar or decapitating an Orc leader? Or would these worlds be more believable and immersive if the whole range of ages was represented?

Every morning, the Massively bloggers probe the minds of their readers with deep, thought-provoking questions about that most serious of topics: massively online gaming. We crave your opinions, so grab your caffeinated beverage of choice and chime in on today's Daily Grind!

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Do children have a place in MMOs? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>childrenchildrens-weekfeaturedkidkidsopinionpubertytdgthe-daily-grindunderageworld-of-warcraftwowyouthyouthsWed, 08 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: LEGO Universe, autism, and heartbreak]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/mmo-family-lego-universe-autism-and-heartbreak/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/mmo-family-lego-universe-autism-and-heartbreak/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/mmo-family-lego-universe-autism-and-heartbreak/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Lego Universe
Often when the topic of video games comes up, it's followed by comments about the negatives, such as violence, antisocial behavior, or inappropriate content. But if they do have harmful effects (and it's arguable how many players really are affected in a negative way), they can also be helpful as well, yet you rarely hear a news story about the good. I've written before about how companies like IBM have studied MMO guilds in order to improve team-building and organization within their company. More recently, MMOWGLI focused on global issues, such as the future of piracy, to study what solutions players could cooperatively generate.

There are also positive benefits to children as well, and while we've touched on a few in recent columns, this week we'll focus on the impact LEGO Universe has had on autistic children. Sadly, the game will be shutting down in a few weeks, and while many parents are thankful for how much it's helped, they're also concerned about what will happen once the game is gone. Read on for a bittersweet look at how this LEGO-based game is leaving behind a legacy.

Continue reading MMO Family: LEGO Universe, autism, and heartbreak

MassivelyMMO Family: LEGO Universe, autism, and heartbreak originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aspergersautismcasualchildrenchildrens-mmosf2pfamilyfamily-friendlyfeaturedfree-to-playkaren-bryankid-friendlykidskids-gameslegolego+gameslego+universelego+universe+game+autismlego-universelegogameslegouniverselegouniversegameautismmmo-closingmmo-familymmo-kidsmmo-shut-downopinionstar-wars-galaxiessunsettabula-rasaWed, 28 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do you play your favorite MMO with your kids?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/the-daily-grind-do-you-play-your-favorite-mmo-with-your-kids/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/the-daily-grind-do-you-play-your-favorite-mmo-with-your-kids/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/the-daily-grind-do-you-play-your-favorite-mmo-with-your-kids/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Guild Wars
Today's Daily Grind is for the parents -- or those who plan to be parents one of these days. It's only natural for little ones to take an interest in what mom and dad spend their leisure time with, whether it be a sport, some sort of craft, or gaming.

MMO gaming in particular lends itself to being a family activity, where Mom, Dad, and the kiddos can team up and take on the Big Bad in their chosen game (provided there are enough computers around the house). Granted, not every MMO is suitable for the younger crowd, but plenty are.

As a parent, do you round up your child for some gaming time? If so, do they join you in your game of choice, or do the two of you spend quality time in a game that you set aside to play together, like Free Realms and Wizard101? Those of you who are looking at parenthood down the road, do you plan to introduce your kids to gaming as soon as possible? Click that handy little comment button and let us know what you think!

Every morning, the Massively bloggers probe the minds of their readers with deep, thought-provoking questions about that most serious of topics: massively online gaming. We crave your opinions, so grab your caffeinated beverage of choice and chime in on today's Daily Grind!

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Do you play your favorite MMO with your kids? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>childrenfamilyfamily-gaminggaming-with-kidskidsopinionparentingtdgthe-daily-grindTue, 15 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: First impressions of Little Space Heroes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/02/mmo-family-first-impressions-of-little-space-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/02/mmo-family-first-impressions-of-little-space-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/02/mmo-family-first-impressions-of-little-space-heroes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Little Space Heroes
In this week's MMO Family, I took a look at an adorable new game from Bubble Gum Interactive called Little Space Heroes. It's a free-to-play, animated, space-themed game aimed at children ages 6 to 12. The game is still in beta, but players can register and get a glimpse of this virtual universe right now.

At first glance, I wasn't sure whether I'd even be able to get my two young "testers" interested in the game. They've tried similar-looking games like Club Penguin but never seemed to stick with them for very long. Surprisingly, not only did they enjoy it, but they pretty much took over, and my little space alien hero was shoved aside as we spent most of our time playing their two characters. Read on for some first impressions!

Continue reading MMO Family: First impressions of Little Space Heroes

MassivelyMMO Family: First impressions of Little Space Heroes originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 Nov 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabrowser-basedbubble-gum-interactivechildrenchildrens-mmosfamily-mmosfeaturedfirst-impressionshands-onkaren-bryankidskids-gameskids-mmoslittle-space-heroesopinionpreviewpreviewsspaceWed, 02 Nov 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Hero Squad Online launches with a new trailer!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/29/super-hero-squad-online-launches-with-a-new-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/29/super-hero-squad-online-launches-with-a-new-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/29/super-hero-squad-online-launches-with-a-new-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Earlier today we reported about Marvel Universe Online, but there is more good news coming out of Marvel Studios and Gazillion Entertainment. Super Hero Squad Online has officially opened its doors to the public. It is time to hero up and start creating your own fabulous force of freedom fighters.

The kid-in-adult-size-shoes Jay Minn, creative director for SHSO, invites you to join in the fun. As he says in the launch press release, "Where else can you fight Doctor Doom, wall crawl up the Baxter Building, go flying with your friends, and collect a scratching post for Wolverine? We've built an awesome Super Hero theme park, so come and play!"

Grab your Captain America shield, your Iron Man suit, and Thor's hammer and watch this teaser video after the break. And if that inspires you to create your own team of Marvel superheroes, fly over to HeroUp.com to start playing! Nuff said!

Continue reading Super Hero Squad Online launches with a new trailer!

MassivelySuper Hero Squad Online launches with a new trailer! originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Apr 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>childrenf2pfamilyfree-to-playftpgazilliongazillion-entertainmentlaunchMarvelMarvel-StudiosSHSOsuper-hero-squadsuper-hero-squad-onlinesuperheroesthe-amazing-societytrailervideoFri, 29 Apr 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Soapbox: The raid can wait; your kids can't]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/18/the-soapbox-the-raid-can-wait-your-kids-cant/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/18/the-soapbox-the-raid-can-wait-your-kids-cant/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/18/the-soapbox-the-raid-can-wait-your-kids-cant/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Disclaimer: The Soapbox column is entirely the opinion of this week's writer and does not necessarily reflect the views of Massively as a whole. If you're afraid of opinions other than your own, you might want to skip this column. No, seriously.

When I'm on voice chat and I hear a child in the background asking for his mommy's or daddy's help with something, it breaks my heart when the parent responds with frustration.

"Not now, honey, Mommy's busy."
"Go ask your Mommy -- Daddy's very busy right now."
"Can it wait?!"

Sure, it can wait, but if you've ever found yourself saying something like that, look into that child's eyes next time. All a child wants is your guidance, attention and love. When you take any of those away from him for the sake of a potential loot drop, you might want to re-evaluate your priorities.

Continue reading The Soapbox: The raid can wait; your kids can't

MassivelyThe Soapbox: The raid can wait; your kids can't originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 18 Jan 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>childreneditorialfeaturedkidsneglectopinionparentingsoapboxthe-soapboxTue, 18 Jan 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: A parent's look at Club Penguin]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/21/mmo-family-a-parents-look-at-club-penguin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/21/mmo-family-a-parents-look-at-club-penguin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/21/mmo-family-a-parents-look-at-club-penguin/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

MMO Family is your resource for leveling a gaming-specced family, from tips on balancing gaming with family life to finding age-appropriate online games for everyone in the family.

Perhaps the leading name in virtual worlds aimed at the younger set, Club Penguin has taken its place as the starter game of choice for many a young online gamer. Ask around any elementary school, and you're bound to find kids who're playing this Flash-based browser game.

We'd heard of the game too, of course -- but we'd never played. So let's take a look at how this virtual world of waddling friendlies stacks up against the rest of the kids' games we've reviewed in our Parent's Guide to Kids & Family Gaming.

Continue reading MMO Family: A parent's look at Club Penguin

MassivelyMMO Family: A parent's look at Club Penguin originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 Dec 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedchild-friendlychildrenclub-penguinf2pfamilyfamily-friendlyfamily-gamingfree-to-playfreemiumkid-friendlykidsmmo-familyparents-guideparents-guide-to-kids-and-family-gamingvirtual-worldvirtual-worldsTue, 21 Dec 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: A parent's look at World of Warcraft]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/30/mmo-family-a-parents-look-at-world-of-warcraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/30/mmo-family-a-parents-look-at-world-of-warcraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/30/mmo-family-a-parents-look-at-world-of-warcraft/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

MMO Family is your resource for leveling a gaming-specced family, from tips on balancing gaming with family life to finding age-appropriate online games for everyone in the family.

World of Warcraft? Yeah, even folks who don't play video games at all have heard of this behemoth of MMO gaming. With 12 million subscribers worldwide, the WoW phenomenon has practically come to define an entire generation's worth of MMO gaming. While it's designed for teens and up, the game is so ubiquitous that you wouldn't have to dig far to find players of all ages, including many teens but also younger children as well.

With a new expansion, World of Warcraft: Cataclysm, due for release on December 7th, plenty of kids (and grownups) will be angling for WoW in their holiday stockings. The question is: Is WoW a good fit for your kids? With good preparation and consistent parent moderation, it can be -- but if you don't play the game yourself or you take a more hands-off approach to gaming, you may want to wait until your little goblin- or worgen-to-be is well into the teen years. Join us after the break for an insider's look at WoW for younger children and teens.

Continue reading MMO Family: A parent's look at World of Warcraft

MassivelyMMO Family: A parent's look at World of Warcraft originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 30 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cataclysmchild-friendlychildrenetiquettefamilyfamily-friendlyfamily-gamingfeaturedgroupinggroupsguildskid-friendlymmo-familynetiquetteparentsraidingsupervisionteenagersteensworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 30 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: Mind your massively multiplayer manners]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/16/mmo-family-mind-your-massively-multiplayer-manners/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/16/mmo-family-mind-your-massively-multiplayer-manners/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/16/mmo-family-mind-your-massively-multiplayer-manners/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

MMO Family is your resource for leveling a gaming-specced family, from tips on balancing gaming with family life to finding age-appropriate online games for everyone in the family.

Kids are like sponges, sure -- old saying is old. But are online manners something you really want to leave to chance? Are the interactions your kids so intently follow online the manners you want them soaking up and using themselves? As parents, we know that the habits and attitudes that kids pick up today are what we'll find coming right back at us tomorrow. Teens who are used to trolling in games and forums will have a hard time modulating to a less strident tone in a business meeting. Kids who excuse a lack of scruples with "whatever -- it's only the internet" are due for a big surprise when a thoughtless instant message or careless lack of response to an email slams doors in their faces later in life.

As parents who game, we all have hot buttons that set us off: the guy who always shows up late to raids, beggars, you name it. The point is: Have you talked to your kids yet about these behaviors? Are you explicitly (by both word and example) helping them not to grow up to be That Guy?

I'm pretty sure we don't need a primer in online etiquette here at Massively, but I don't think it would hurt to share some of the things we wish Those Other Parents had taught their kids before turning them loose in our games. I'll share my dirty dozen after the break -- won't you share your own in the comments?

Continue reading MMO Family: Mind your massively multiplayer manners

MassivelyMMO Family: Mind your massively multiplayer manners originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Nov 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beggingchildrenetiquettefamilyfamily-gamingfeaturedgroupinggroupsguildsinterruptionslollulzmannersmistakesnetiquetteninja-inviteninja-lootingparentsraidingsupervisionteenagersteenstime-managementventTue, 16 Nov 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: A parent's look at LEGO Universe]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/02/mmo-family-a-parents-look-at-lego-universe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/02/mmo-family-a-parents-look-at-lego-universe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/02/mmo-family-a-parents-look-at-lego-universe/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

MMO Family is your resource for leveling a gaming-specced family, from tips on balancing gaming with family life to finding age-appropriate online games for everyone in the family.

Most kids who play video games have at least seen one from the LEGO franchise. There are a ton of them -- enough, in fact, for a whole page listing them. They're fun games; I'll bet you've played at least one of them, at least in bits and pieces in a demo somewhere. After all, who doesn't love LEGOs?

Still, there was a decided "ho-hum" reaction among my team of young playtesters when I announced we were going to test the ropes of the brand new LEGO Universe MMO. Oh sure, they were willing enough, but it seemed there was always something shinier and more appealing to play on any given day than the game about good ol' LEGOs.

Until they played LEGO Universe -- and had a (brick-)smashing good time.

Gallery: First Impressions: LEGO Universe

Continue reading MMO Family: A parent's look at LEGO Universe

MassivelyMMO Family: A parent's look at LEGO Universe originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Nov 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>childrenfamilyfamily-gamingfeaturedkid-friendlykidslegolego-universelegosmmo-familynet-devilnetdevilparental-controlsparentsparents-guideparents-guide-to-kids-and-family-gamingryan-seaburysubscriptionwarner-brothers-interactiveTue, 02 Nov 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[First Impressions: LEGO Universe]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/21/first-impressions-lego-universe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/21/first-impressions-lego-universe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/21/first-impressions-lego-universe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Playing. It's one of our earliest lessons from childhood, and one that we as gamers hold on to with gusto. Let's face it -- in just about every gamer out there is a kid who, at least in some small way, refuses to grow up entirely. We love to play. It's that love, coupled with childhood memories of clicking tons of brightly colored LEGO blocks together, that has made the idea of LEGO videogames a huge hit. Now have a new contender to the LEGO gaming play-space: LEGO Universe. It's a game that has the potential to offer all the things we as MMO gamers would love: an open-ended world, a great known IP that reminds us of youthful days, and the social aspects many of us enjoy.

Aside from this, LEGO Universe also offers many things that parents of young gamers will value. As someone I spoke with recently asked: "What's stopping people from building offensive adult-themed content with LEGO bricks that my child might see?" The answer lies in LEGO Universe's moderation team, known as the Mythran (a shadowy group actually written into the lore of the game), which personally reviews personal free-build areas for compliance. The Mythrans also oversee character and pet names. When combined with a speedchat and whitelisted word chat system, it makes for a very workable solution to keeping kids safe online.

Curious about a look into LEGO Universe? Join me behind the break as I take a more detailed look at this colorful game, and be sure to check out the extensive gallery below!

Gallery: First Impressions: LEGO Universe

Continue reading First Impressions: LEGO Universe

MassivelyFirst Impressions: LEGO Universe originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Oct 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualchildrenfamiliesfamilyfamily-gamesfeaturedfirst-impressionsgame-mechanicsgazilliongazillion-entertainmentkidslegolego-universeLUmechanicsMinigamesnetdevilopinionopinion-pieceoverviewparentspreviewThu, 21 Oct 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: Parents as gaming gatekeepers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/19/mmo-family-parents-as-gaming-gatekeepers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/19/mmo-family-parents-as-gaming-gatekeepers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/19/mmo-family-parents-as-gaming-gatekeepers/#commentsFiled under: , ,

MMO Family is your resource for leveling a gaming-specced family, from tips on balancing gaming with family life to finding age-appropriate online games for everyone in the family.

Does your child have the emotional levels it takes to tackle certain MMOs? The idea of parents as gaming gatekeepers all too often comes down to simplistic, ESRB ratings-based rulings passed down from on high by relatively disengaged parents. Deciding what and how your child should play is far from a black-or-white decision. Last time in MMO Family, for instance, we looked at how to tell if your child is ready for MMO raiding -- yet far too many commenters missed the point, assuming (from the topic alone, we can only presume) that we advocate a laissez-faire attitude that allows kids to abandon their other activities and strands them in front of a keyboard during every free moment. Come on, folks, it's not a choice between letting kids play to the detriment of the rest of their lives vs. not playing at all. It's about gatekeeping -- and this is where you, the parent, come in.

The truth is, categorically forbidding kids who're interested in video games to play at all is no more thoughtful or balanced an approach than throwing up your hands and letting them log in during every waking moment. Your role is to help children learn to balance their interests and lives, with as light or heavy a hand as may be necessary for your kids. This week, we've brought you some thoughts from a mother and son who've been there, done that -- together.

Continue reading MMO Family: Parents as gaming gatekeepers

MassivelyMMO Family: Parents as gaming gatekeepers originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 19 Oct 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-appropriateage-limitschildrenESRBfamilyfamily-gamingfeaturedguildsparental-controlsparentsraidingsupervisionteenagersteenstime-managementTue, 19 Oct 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: Is your child ready for MMO raiding?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/mmo-family-is-your-child-ready-for-mmo-raiding/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/mmo-family-is-your-child-ready-for-mmo-raiding/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/mmo-family-is-your-child-ready-for-mmo-raiding/#commentsFiled under: , ,

MMO Family is your resource for leveling a gaming-specced family, from tips on balancing gaming with family life to finding age-appropriate online games for everyone in the family.

Does your youngster have ambitions to become an MMO raider? As a seasoned gamer yourself, you may find it hard to believe that your kids are already old enough to be chomping at the bit to battle the same bosses, to pore over the same strategies, to put themselves through the same scheduling wringer that you do. That's the thing about kids, though -- they want to tackle the cool stuff just like you do, especially if that's what they've grown up watching you raid.

Is MMO raiding appropriate for your older child or teen? That's a matter only a parent can decide. The answer will be different from child to child, age to age and family to family. The best analogy I can offer is to treat this like a virtual team sport. Make sure your youngster has the bandwidth to support adding another focused activity to his schedule; from there, you'll want to help him choose the right team with a solid coach and assistants, supportive teammates and an age-appropriate challenge rating and social environment. A little direction from a tuned-in, gaming-savvy parent can help many young wannabe raiders realize their ambitions in an age-appropriate, balanced and enjoyable way.

Continue reading MMO Family: Is your child ready for MMO raiding?

MassivelyMMO Family: Is your child ready for MMO raiding? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 05 Oct 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-appropriateage-limitschildrenfamilyfamily-funfamily-gamingfeaturedguildsparental-controlsparentsraidingsupervisionteenagersteenstime-managementTue, 05 Oct 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: A parent's look at World of Cars Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/07/mmo-family-a-parents-look-at-world-of-cars-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/07/mmo-family-a-parents-look-at-world-of-cars-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/07/mmo-family-a-parents-look-at-world-of-cars-online/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


MMO Family is your resource for leveling a gaming-specced family, from tips on balancing gaming with family life to finding age-appropriate online games for everyone in the family.

How could you not fall in love with a Disney/Pixar movie? I'm not sure that's even possible. Cars revved up belly laughs in the theater back in 2006, earning two Oscar nominations and raking in more than a dozen other industry awards. Kids were captivated by the feisty little car characters, and grownups chuckled at voicing from such high-octane stars as Owen Wilson, Paul Newman and even Cheech Marin.

The MMO version of the franchise, which officially launched last month, pulls away from the starting line without this full tank of charisma. World of Cars Online hits on all cylinders yet somehow fails to throttle up into the type of completely engaging world we've come to expect from a Disney/Pixar creation. It's a 2-D, minigame-centric experience with lots (and we do mean lots) of point-and-click racing. Still, if you've got a young boy around the house who's hankering to burn a little online rubber, World of Cars is an inexpensive, kid-friendly way to do it.

Continue reading MMO Family: A parent's look at World of Cars Online

MassivelyMMO Family: A parent's look at World of Cars Online originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Sep 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carschat-filterchildchildrendisneydisney-interactive-media-groupfamilyfamily-friendlyfamily-funfamily-gamingfeaturedflashfree-to-playfreemiumkid-friendlykidsminigamesparental-controlsparentspixarpoint-and-clicksafe-chatspeed-chatweb-basedworld-of-carsworld-of-cars-onlineTue, 07 Sep 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: The 10-step back-to-school gaming tuneup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/24/mmo-family-the-10-step-back-to-school-gaming-tuneup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/24/mmo-family-the-10-step-back-to-school-gaming-tuneup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/24/mmo-family-the-10-step-back-to-school-gaming-tuneup/#commentsFiled under: , ,

MMO Family is your resource for leveling a gaming-specced family, from tips on balancing gaming with family life to finding age-appropriate online games for everyone in the family.

We're going to make this short and sweet, parents: You probably shouldn't try to dodge a back-to-school gaming tuneup. Sure, talking about responsibilities and setting screen time limits is no fun. Kids hate rules, and parents hate having to play traffic cop. But back-to-school time means rebalancing languid, lazy summer schedules -- and if you're going to help your kids develop time management skills and a head for how to balance their own activities and schedules, this is the perfect teaching moment.

Before we go any further, let's make it clear that hard-and-fast time limits aren't the answer for all or even many gaming families. What's important is to help young gaming devotees step back periodically for a checkup of how this compelling, sometimes time-consuming hobby is balancing out against the rest of their lives. Your goal is not to legislate from above but rather to help your kids regulate from below -- so let's take a look at 10 steps that can help them do exactly that.

Continue reading MMO Family: The 10-step back-to-school gaming tuneup

MassivelyMMO Family: The 10-step back-to-school gaming tuneup originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Aug 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>childchildrenfamilyfamily-friendlyfamily-gamingfeaturedkid-friendlykidsparentsschoolscreen-timeTue, 24 Aug 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: Long-distance gaming with Grandma and Grandpa]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/10/mmo-family-long-distance-gaming-with-grandma-and-grandpa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/10/mmo-family-long-distance-gaming-with-grandma-and-grandpa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/10/mmo-family-long-distance-gaming-with-grandma-and-grandpa/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

MMO Family is your resource for leveling a gaming-specced family, from tips on balancing gaming with family life to finding age-appropriate online games for everyone in the family.

Back in my day (eons before even that prehistoric era when we trudged five miles uphill through the lava to kill Lord Nagafen, after sitting in the server's text chat room so our buff timers wouldn't tick down while the rest of the group was getting prepped), kids wrote letters to keep in touch with long-distance grandparents. We struggled almost as hard to read our elders' spidery, old-fashioned cursive as we did to figure out something relevant to say to these relative strangers. Then once a month, we'd be herded into the kitchen or hall (where most people's phones were back then) for the Dreaded Phone Call of Doom, during which we'd self-consciously mumble responses to people who couldn't remember which grade we were in or which of us kids was the swimmer and which was the ballet dancer. Talk about awkward...

Today, cell phones and email make it much easier to keep a family in touch when its members are separated by miles. Still, it's hard for kids to develop a relationship of any depth with people they meet infrequently at best and with whom they share nothing in common beyond a few genetic jots and tittles.

Until gaming came along.

Continue reading MMO Family: Long-distance gaming with Grandma and Grandpa

MassivelyMMO Family: Long-distance gaming with Grandma and Grandpa originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 10 Aug 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>childchildrenfamilyfamily-friendlyfamily-funfamily-gamingfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumgaming-across-the-milesgrandmagrandpagrandparentskid-friendlykidslong-distancelong-distance-gamingparentsTue, 10 Aug 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: A parent's look at Fantage]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/27/mmo-family-a-parents-look-at-fantage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/27/mmo-family-a-parents-look-at-fantage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/27/mmo-family-a-parents-look-at-fantage/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

MMO Family is your resource for leveling a gaming-specced family, from tips on balancing gaming with family life to finding age-appropriate online games for everyone in the family.

Now that we've established that kids aren't gaming snobs and will dig into a good Flash game with as much relish as we grownups attack any top-rung MMO title, let's look at another up-and-coming Flash title for kids. Fantage (short for "Fantastic Age") has attracted nearly 7 million users since April 2008 almost entirely by word of mouth -- how's that for kid power?

I suspect the reason Fantage tickles my 9-year-old playtester's fancy is tied to the advancements she's been making with her real-life character this summer. The achievements are flowing: she's figured out how to use the Page Up and Page Down buttons to snag [Swimming in the Deep End], she's acquired her first epic mount [Big Brother's Hand-Me-Down Bike] and she's become fascinated with the possibilities of /dance... We're even breaking away from class-specific gear sets to farm all the mats for her [Tier 4 School Supplies] individually via hotly contested minigames all over town. So while she's still utterly captivated by the sparkling magic of a game like Pixie Hollow, this evolving little personality is hooked on Fantage's opportunities to show off her own style and personality via her avatar and accessories. Different game, different flavor -- so let's investigate the attractions.

Continue reading MMO Family: A parent's look at Fantage

MassivelyMMO Family: A parent's look at Fantage originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Jul 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chat-filterchildchildrenESRBESRB-ratingfamilyfamily-friendlyfamily-funfamily-gamingfantagefeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumkid-friendlykidsparental-controlsparentspixie-hollowsafe-chatTue, 27 Jul 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: Parents Guide helps you choose games for the family]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/13/mmo-family-parents-guide-helps-you-choose-games-for-the-family/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/13/mmo-family-parents-guide-helps-you-choose-games-for-the-family/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/13/mmo-family-parents-guide-helps-you-choose-games-for-the-family/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

MMO Family is your resource for leveling a gaming-specced family. From tips on balancing gaming with family life to finding age-appropriate niches for every family member, MMO Family offers you advice on MMO gaming of the family, by the family and for the family.

When it's time to find just the right game for your family, turn to our growing Parents Guide to Kids & Family Gaming.You know what you like in an MMO -- but what about your kids? And what if you're looking for something the whole family can play together? We ask the basic questions for all the online games you may be considering for your family.

  • What computer systems will it run on?
  • How much does it cost?
  • What does the game look and feel like?
  • Who's the target audience?
You'll find answers to these questions and more for every game in our ongoing series. What's more, we'll be updating the Parents Guide every time we run a new "A parent's look at" article.

Continue reading MMO Family: Parents Guide helps you choose games for the family

MassivelyMMO Family: Parents Guide helps you choose games for the family originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>childrenfamilyfamily-friendlyfamily-gamingfeaturedkidsparentsparents-guide-to-kids-and-family-gamingTue, 13 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: Podcasts for gaming kids]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/29/mmo-family-podcasts-for-gaming-kids/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/29/mmo-family-podcasts-for-gaming-kids/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/29/mmo-family-podcasts-for-gaming-kids/#commentsFiled under: , ,

MMO Family is your resource for leveling a gaming-specced family. From tips on balancing gaming with family life to finding age-appropriate niches for every family member, MMO Family offers you advice on MMO gaming of the family, by the family and for the family.

Here's an offbeat idea for the kids on one of those endless hot summer days: Track down -- or better yet, try your hand at creating -- a podcast for their favorite MMO. Kids love to hear what other kids are playing, yet there aren't many kid-friendly gaming podcasts out there. "The thing about podcasts for kid's MMOs is that most kids don't really know much about what a podcast is," says Leesha Darkheart of Ravenwood Radio, a podcast about Wizard101.

Do we smell a hero's title for the mom or dad who comes up with an idea for creating some of the coolest summer fun on the block? We just might -- plus a seal of approval for discovering yet another way to enjoy gaming as a family.

Continue reading MMO Family: Podcasts for gaming kids

MassivelyMMO Family: Podcasts for gaming kids originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 29 Jun 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>childchildrenfamily-friendlyfamily-gamingfree-realmsfree-realms-soehello-kitty-onlinekid-fridaykid-friendlylego-universepodcastravenwood-radiospiralcastvideo-games-for-kidswebcastwebkinz-webcastwizard101Tue, 29 Jun 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: Video game violence provokes aggression in some kids but not others]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/15/mmo-family-video-game-violence-provokes-aggression-in-some-kids/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/15/mmo-family-video-game-violence-provokes-aggression-in-some-kids/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/15/mmo-family-video-game-violence-provokes-aggression-in-some-kids/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

MMO Family is your resource for leveling a gaming-specced family ... From tips on balancing gaming with family life to finding age-appropriate niches for every family member, MMO Family offers you advice on MMO gaming of the family, by the family and for the family.

Sensible parents have long recognized that the way kids react to video game violence varies according to their personalities. A recent post at Bitmob illustrated one parent's recognition of the innocence with which his four-year-old son approached an opportunity to play Grand Theft Auto. "I understand not every kid is like mine, so I wouldn't recommend that every parent allow their child to play Grand Theft Auto," he wrote. "But I would recommend that you listen and pay attention to your little ones to determine what they are capable of handling and what they are not ready for yet."

Now, new research tells us how to determine exactly that. A report in the June issue of Review of General Psychology has pinpointed the factors that determine why violent video games provoke hostile behavior in some teens but not in others.

Continue reading MMO Family: Video game violence provokes aggression in some kids but not others

MassivelyMMO Family: Video game violence provokes aggression in some kids but not others originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Jun 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aggressionchildchild-friendlychildrenfamilyfamily-friendlyfamily-gamingfeaturedgrand-theft-autointernetkid-friendlykidsparentsresearchvideo-games-liveviolenceviolentTue, 15 Jun 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: Screening "screen time"]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/01/mmo-family-screening-screen-time/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/01/mmo-family-screening-screen-time/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/01/mmo-family-screening-screen-time/#commentsFiled under: , ,

MMO Family is your resource for leveling a gaming-specced family ... From tips on balancing gaming with family life to finding age-appropriate niches for every family member, MMO Family offers you advice on MMO gaming of the family, by the family and for the family.

One of the first topics we tackled here at MMO Family is how to tell when kids have had enough gaming time. As parents who game, we should be in a unique position to appreciate, respect and guide our children's attraction to games. But in the crush of day-to-day living, it's all too easy to let a few extra gaming minutes slip into half an hour ... past an hour ... into the evening ... into a habit that's begun eating away at family balance.

Some families keep a rein on gaming overdoses by instituting strict limits on screen time. What's considered part of the screen time quota varies from family to family; TV time is the bottom line, with movies, internet use and gaming time lumped in or added on top according to each family's habits and needs. We talked to Dr. Kourosh Dini, author of Video Game Play and Addiction: A Guide for Parents (now available completely online) and himself a gamer, for some professional perspectives on how to keep things in balance.

Continue reading MMO Family: Screening "screen time"

MassivelyMMO Family: Screening "screen time" originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 Jun 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>childchild-friendlychildrenfamilyfamily-friendlyfamily-gamingfeaturedinternetkid-friendlykidsparentsscreen-timetelevisiontime-managementTVTue, 01 Jun 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: A parent's look at Pixie Hollow]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/14/mmo-family-a-parents-look-at-pixie-hollow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/14/mmo-family-a-parents-look-at-pixie-hollow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/14/mmo-family-a-parents-look-at-pixie-hollow/#commentsFiled under: , ,

MMO Family is your resource for leveling a gaming-specced family ... From tips on balancing gaming with family life to finding age-appropriate niches for every family member, MMO Family offers you advice on MMO gaming of the family, by the family and for the family.

I wasn't planning to include a 2-D Flash game in MMO Family's initial sweep of children's games -- but then my daughter tried Disney's Pixie Hollow. Initially dismissive of the idea of slumming it in 2-D, she found herself utterly captivated by its magpie collection quests and friendly community of players. In the eyes of this 8-year-old road tester, Pixie Hollow delivers an enjoyable, social experience in an online world ... And I was forced to admit that this world suits her own interests as well as deeply immersive MMO worlds hold mine.

We're not going to get into gender wars here. Obviously, some girls won't like the fairies theme, and we're sure grownups will continue their snarky debates over the game's recently added male characters ("sparrow men"). Beyond that, what's most apparent is that Pixie Hollow successfully snares both kids who are enthralled with the Disney Fairies franchise and those who simply enjoy a glittery, web-based spot to flutter and chatter.

Continue reading MMO Family: A parent's look at Pixie Hollow

MassivelyMMO Family: A parent's look at Pixie Hollow originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 14 May 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chat-filterchildchildrenDisneyDisney-FairiesDisney-InteractiveESRBESRB-ratingfairiesfamilyfamily-friendlyfamily-funfamily-gamingfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumkid-friendlykidsparental-controlsparentsPixie-Hollowsparrow-manFri, 14 May 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: A parent's look at Toontown Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/16/mmo-family-a-parents-look-at-toontown-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/16/mmo-family-a-parents-look-at-toontown-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/16/mmo-family-a-parents-look-at-toontown-online/#commentsFiled under: , ,

MMO Family is your resource for leveling a gaming-specced family ... From tips on balancing gaming with family life to finding age-appropriate niches for every family member, MMO Family offers you advice on MMO gaming of the family, by the family and for the family.

Kids may not even realize they're playing an MMO (you know, one of those games that Mom and Dad talk about all the time and play after bedtime) when they log in to Toontown Online. All the traditional elements are there -- missions, combat, grouping, pets -- but they're all couched in the incomparable cartoon stylings of Disney. In fact, "couched" is probably the most apt descriptor possible, because Toontown is familiar and welcoming, just like that cozy couch you've been nestling into to watch Saturday morning cartoons for ... well, your whole life.

That's not to say that the action in Toontown is laid back. It's anything but. Kids gobble up the zany, cartoon slapstick approach to "combat" (think cream pies and banana peels) and mini-games. In fact, they'll be so busy squirting the boss in the face with their lapel flowers that they won't even realize they're "working" on levels. This is kid-flavored MMO gaming at its candy-coated best.

Continue reading MMO Family: A parent's look at Toontown Online

MassivelyMMO Family: A parent's look at Toontown Online originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Apr 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chat-filterchildchildrenESRBESRB-ratingfamilyfamily-friendlyfamily-funfamily-gamingfeaturedkid-friendlykidsparental-controlsparentspay-as-you-goFri, 16 Apr 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: The advantages of a family-friendly guild]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/02/mmo-family-the-advantages-of-a-family-friendly-guild/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/02/mmo-family-the-advantages-of-a-family-friendly-guild/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/02/mmo-family-the-advantages-of-a-family-friendly-guild/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

tostadophoto.com, flickr
MMO Family is your resource for leveling a gaming-specced family ... From tips on balancing gaming with family life to finding age-appropriate niches for every family member, MMO Family offers you advice on MMO gaming of the family, by the family and for the family.

The benefits of so-called "family-friendly" guilds go far beyond the flexibility for an occasional (or perhaps not-so-occasional) "AFK, baby woke up" during raids. Having started out as a launch-era, Drelzna-camping EverQuest player, I now appreciate the evolution to a kinder, gentler schedule. When my guild finally made a conscious switch to a more forgiving schedule and philosophy, the relief in guild chat was palpable. It's not necessarily about the specific hours or the number of nights per week -- the family-friendly approach is more of a mindset that gives members room to breathe.

Continue reading MMO Family: The advantages of a family-friendly guild

MassivelyMMO Family: The advantages of a family-friendly guild originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 Apr 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>childchildrenfamilyfamily-friendlyfamily-guildfeaturedguildskidsparentsscheduleFri, 02 Apr 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Anti-Aliased: Even virtual relationships are hot button issues]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/02/anti-aliased-even-virtual-relationships-are-hot-button-issues/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/02/anti-aliased-even-virtual-relationships-are-hot-button-issues/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/02/anti-aliased-even-virtual-relationships-are-hot-button-issues/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Before I even begin this column, I need to give a shout out to Interitus. This week's topic was inspired by an e-mail he recently sent me, regarding the ongoing debate on the Star Wars: The Old Republic forums with their "romance" story arcs. So, thanks Interitus for the idea!

So, to recap for everyone before we dive into the discussion for the week, here's the deal -- Star Wars: The Old Republic will let you romance your companion NPCs much like Mass Effect. Using dialogue options, you can form a romantic relationship with your chosen follower. However, BioWare has neglected to state how far this system will extend. All we know is that only you'll be able to see your romance storylines and there won't be any explicit sex. Star Wars is all about understated sexual tension, AKA Han Solo and Princess Leia.

So what about romances between two characters of the same-sex, like Mass Effect? Well, we're not too sure about that at the moment. BioWare has said nothing confirming or denying their existence. And, because gay romance is a huge hot button issue, the SWTOR forums are aflame regarding the addition of same-sex romances.

Should we include same-sex romances? Are they appropriate for the Star Wars universe? Are they appropriate for the target audience? Well come along everyone, and let's discuss.

Continue reading Anti-Aliased: Even virtual relationships are hot button issues

MassivelyAnti-Aliased: Even virtual relationships are hot button issues originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 Apr 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anti-aliasedbiowarebisexualchildrencontentgaykidslesbianmoralsograopinionopposite-gender-romance-arcsoptional-contentromanceromance-arcssame-gender-romance-arcssgrastar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstar-wars-torswtortortransgenderedFri, 02 Apr 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: Finding time to game during the family years]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/19/mmo-family-finding-time-to-game-during-the-family-years/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/19/mmo-family-finding-time-to-game-during-the-family-years/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/19/mmo-family-finding-time-to-game-during-the-family-years/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

★Debs★, flickr
MMO Family is your resource for leveling a gaming-specced family ... From tips on balancing gaming with family life to finding age-appropriate niches for every family member, MMO Family offers you advice on MMO gaming of the family, by the family and for the family.

Believe it or not, the childhood years can be a golden era for your gaming. It's all about availability -- and let's face it, staying home to game gives you a big edge. The trick is making sure you actually are available to your children and partner while you're gaming. (After all, isolating yourself in the back room mumbling, "Just six more kills ... Just six more kills ..." isn't exactly helping anyone find a juice box or get a fresh diaper.) Still, once you stop to consider the ways that gaming can fit into your daily schedule, we think you'll find that gaming is a great fit for a young family.

Continue reading MMO Family: Finding time to game during the family years

MassivelyMMO Family: Finding time to game during the family years originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Mar 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>childchildrenfamilyfeaturedkidsparentsscheduleteenagersteenstweensFri, 19 Mar 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: How to lobby your parents for more gaming time]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/05/mmo-family-how-to-lobby-your-parents-for-more-gaming-time/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/05/mmo-family-how-to-lobby-your-parents-for-more-gaming-time/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/05/mmo-family-how-to-lobby-your-parents-for-more-gaming-time/#commentsFiled under: , ,

MMO Family is your resource for leveling a gaming-specced family. From tips on balancing gaming with family life to finding age-appropriate niches for every family member, MMO Family offers you advice on MMO gaming of the family, by the family and for the family.

Today's MMO Family is for all the MMO-playing teens out there who'd like more time to game. Parents, you're most welcome to stay and read along (and hand this to your own teen afterwards), but we've covered your perspective before. (Refer back to our tips on how to balance gaming with the rest of your life, or check the signs that your teen may be over-indulging in too much gaming.) What we haven't covered yet explicitly are strategies for responsible teens to earn permission for more gaming time. If you're jonesing for more time in game and online, there are things that you should and shouldn't do before you even make your case with your parents.

Here's our game plan.

Continue reading MMO Family: How to lobby your parents for more gaming time

MassivelyMMO Family: How to lobby your parents for more gaming time originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Mar 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>childrenfamilyfeaturedhomeworkkidsparentsscheduleschoolteenagersteensFri, 05 Mar 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Parents can breathe a bit easier thanks to Crisp Thinking's NetModerator]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/24/parents-can-breathe-a-bit-easier-thanks-to-crisp-thinking-s-netm/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/24/parents-can-breathe-a-bit-easier-thanks-to-crisp-thinking-s-netm/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/24/parents-can-breathe-a-bit-easier-thanks-to-crisp-thinking-s-netm/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Letting your children play MMOs can be a tricky balancing act for gamer parents. On the one hand, you want your children to have fun playing games online while gaining socialization and computer skills. On the other, you're a protective parent who wants to make sure your kids are safe -- without making them live in a bubble. You can teach them about online safety and how to protect themselves, but there's always the possibility that something will take a wrong turn.

Thankfully, it seems that a company called Crisp Thinking have developed a tool to help parents in their fight for online safety. Their system, called NetModerator, has been put into place in kid-friendly MMOs like Free Realms and FusionFall to combat against predators, bullies, and the like. It watches for certain keywords and phrases during online interactions. When detected, the system will step in and moderate the conversations -- allowing for real-time changes in potentially dangerous situations, as opposed to a reactionary method of dealing with abusive or predatory accounts after the conversations have taken place.

The entire concept is fascinating, so we're sure parents will want to pop over to VentureBeat's Games Beat and check out Dean Takahashi's great write up about this new technology. With an accuracy rate of 98.4% in terms of flagging dangerous and harmful conversations, and the ability to learn cloaked phrases, we're sure parents will be glad to hear that there's another layer protecting their kids from online danger. It's no replacement for the first line of defense -- good parenting -- but it certainly doesn't hurt.

[Thanks, Pete!]

MassivelyParents can breathe a bit easier thanks to Crisp Thinking's NetModerator originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 24 Feb 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cartoon-networkcartoon-network-digitalchat-moderationchildrencrisp-thinkingcyber-bullyingfree-realmsfusionfallkidsnetmoderatoronline-safetyparentparentingparentsperv-blockingpredatorreal-timesoesony-online-entertainmentWed, 24 Feb 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: A parent's look at Wizard101]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/19/mmo-family-a-parents-look-at-wizard101/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/19/mmo-family-a-parents-look-at-wizard101/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/19/mmo-family-a-parents-look-at-wizard101/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

MMO Family is your resource for leveling a gaming-specced family ... From tips on balancing gaming with family life to finding age-appropriate niches for every family member, MMO Family offers you advice on MMO gaming of the family, by the family and for the family.

Wizard101 is the game your youngest gamers have been begging for. With stringent chat filters atop relaxed, turn-based game play, Wizard101 looks almost unbeatable for young players seeking an MMO with traditional fantasy appeal. It plays like a collectible card game with all the MMO trimmings: housing, armor and clothing, player houses, pets, mini-games ... Family subscription plans plus the most complete, well presented web documentation that we've found keep parents as happy as the kids. (And they just might find themselves tempted to start a character and build their own spell decks, too!)

Continue reading MMO Family: A parent's look at Wizard101

MassivelyMMO Family: A parent's look at Wizard101 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Feb 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chat-filterchildrenESRBESRB-ratingfamilyfamily-friendlyfamily-funfamily-gamingfeaturedkid-friendlykidsparental-controlsparentspay-as-you-gowizard101Fri, 19 Feb 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: A parent's look at Ether Saga Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/mmo-family-a-parents-look-at-ether-saga-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/mmo-family-a-parents-look-at-ether-saga-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/mmo-family-a-parents-look-at-ether-saga-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

MMO Family is your resource for leveling a gaming-specced family ... From tips on balancing gaming with family life to finding age-appropriate niches for every family member, MMO Family offers you advice on MMO gaming of the family, by the family and for the family.

Next in our look at kids' MMOs is Ether Saga Online, winner of a 2009 National Parenting Publications Award for tweens and teens video games. Compared with the freewheeling, open-ended approach of Free Realms, ESO presents a more traditional MMO face. Even so, you probably weren't expecting a work of classic literature -- but that's in fact what you'll get. ESO, which was first developed for Chinese players, is based on Journey to the West (often known in the West as Monkey), considered one of the four great classical novels of Chinese literature. All that, and it's free to play, too.

Continue reading MMO Family: A parent's look at Ether Saga Online

MassivelyMMO Family: A parent's look at Ether Saga Online originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Jan 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animechat-filterchildrenESRBESRB-ratingfamilyfamily-friendlyfamily-funfamily-gamingfeaturedJourney-to-the-Westkid-friendlykidsMonkeyparental-controlsparentsPerfect-WorldPerfect-World-EntertainmentFri, 29 Jan 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: A parent's look at Free Realms]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/15/mmo-family-a-parents-look-at-free-realms/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/15/mmo-family-a-parents-look-at-free-realms/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/15/mmo-family-a-parents-look-at-free-realms/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

MMO Family is your resource for leveling a gaming-specced family ... From tips on balancing gaming with family life to finding age-appropriate niches for every family member, MMO Family offers you advice on MMO gaming of the family, by the family and for the family.

This week, MMO Family begins a gaming-savvy look at some of the most popular kid MMOs. You know what you like in an MMO - but what about your kids? And what if you're looking for something the whole family could play together? Today's gaming family can nibble from a whole feast of MMOs: games for grownups (we can help you fence off areas for kids who want to play what Mom and Dad do), games for the little ones, games for tweens and teens, and games for everyone to play together. When it's time to find just the right selection for the kids, we'll help you reticle over the most likely targets.

First up: Free Realms from Sony Online Entertainment.

Continue reading MMO Family: A parent's look at Free Realms

MassivelyMMO Family: A parent's look at Free Realms originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chat-filterchildrenESRBESRB-ratingfamilyfamily-friendlyfamily-funfamily-gamingfeaturedFree-Realmskid-friendlykidsparental-controlsparentsSony-Online-EntertainmentStation-CashFri, 15 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: Kidproofing your favorite MMO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/01/mmo-family-kidproofing-your-favorite-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/01/mmo-family-kidproofing-your-favorite-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/01/mmo-family-kidproofing-your-favorite-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

MMO Family is your resource for leveling a gaming-specced family ... From tips on balancing gaming with family life to finding age-appropriate niches for every family member, MMO Family offers you advice on MMO gaming of the family, by the family and for the family.

It's inevitable: whatever bright, shiny game you are playing, the kids will want in on the action, too. Granted, some games just aren't made for sharing with kids. (This mom saw her Age of Conan debauchery relegated to late-night sessions after the kids had gone to bed.) But most MMOs make perfectly fine sandboxes for the kids, once you've helped shape a kid-sized mini-world within.

The thing is, young children enjoy MMOs differently than older kids and adults. The things that float their little boats are likely to seem completely pedestrian to you. Kids devour character creation. They enjoy exploring starting zones and picking "their" own houses, inns and shops. They like to dress up (you did take Tailoring, didn't you?). They think killing 10 rats is grand fun -- and just as fun the next time, and the next, and the next ...

Part of the reason that these things are so enticing to them is because they're part of the game that you play. Just because your youngster isn't quite ready for the main course of your favorite game doesn't mean the game is completely unsuitable for kids. We'd never recommend buying an MMO specifically for a child who's not ready to tackle its main content. But if you're already playing a game that your kids think looks fun, why not let them join in at their level? It's not necessary to hand-hold them through every moment. Keep reading for simple ways to help younger children enjoy big MMOs in a smaller, more kid-friendly way.

Continue reading MMO Family: Kidproofing your favorite MMO

MassivelyMMO Family: Kidproofing your favorite MMO originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 01 Jan 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>childrenfamilyfamily-funfeaturedkidsparentsFri, 01 Jan 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: Hey, this looks like a kids' game]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/18/mmo-family-hey-this-looks-like-a-kids-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/18/mmo-family-hey-this-looks-like-a-kids-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/18/mmo-family-hey-this-looks-like-a-kids-game/#commentsFiled under: ,

MMO Family is your resource for leveling a gaming-specced family ... From tips on balancing gaming with family life to finding age-appropriate niches for every family member, MMO Family offers you advice on MMO gaming of the family, by the family and for the family.

We've talked before about different ways to sniff out if an MMO is a good choice for your kids. What we haven't covered yet are the indicators that a game may not be a good fit for your family. In light of the long hours of freedom stretching before our kids when school's out (and the fact that parental oversight is more likely to be lenient, if not downright indulgent, during the holidays), we decided some yellow-light signals might be in order.

Being a gaming parent sometimes makes it tougher, not simpler, to choose the right games for kids. Constant exposure to gaming news and game names can give us a false sense of familiarity. We build assumptions about games based on what we know about the companies that produce them. What we think we know actually makes it harder to spot what we're not clued into at all.

Continue reading MMO Family: Hey, this looks like a kids' game

MassivelyMMO Family: Hey, this looks like a kids' game originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Dec 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>childrenESRBfamilyfeaturedfree-to-playkidsparentsratingratingsFri, 18 Dec 2009 16:00:00 EST