Many of us still remember life before computers and smartphones, but nowadays you’re more likely to come across the generation that’s grown up already hooked to the internet. In fact, they might be walking around your house at this very moment. Parents will surely relate to the reality of raising children in a connected world where - let’s face it - a tablet loaded with a Disney movie or an online game can prove to be a welcomed helping hand during trying times. But a big part of parenting has also become living in a constant state of alertness over their kids’ screen time and making sure they’re not exposed to the most unsavory corners of the internet. Fortunately, there are plenty of family-friendly online platforms where the younger ones can enjoy themselves, learn and make friends, and virtual worlds are quickly-becoming a favorite. With that in mind, here are the best (and safest) virtual worlds that you kid can start having fun with today.
Minecraft is a cult favorite for kids and adults alike. And it’s easy to understand why. This ‘sandbox game’ doubles as a sprawling virtual world that is ideal for adventure, learning and creative exploration as users have total control over every aspect of their digital environments. Better yet, Minecraft has no rules which means that imagination is really just the limit when it comes to creating new worlds, no matter how big, eccentric or fantastical they might be. Naturally then, this virtual world is the perfect playground for children. Each user is given building blocks to create new digital infrastructures, characters, items or simply keep adding to what already exists inside the Minecraft universe. The younger ones will particularly enjoy playing along with their friends and they’re also unlikely to get easily bored or frustrated since Minecraft has four different game modes: adventure, creative, survival and hardcore. Because of this flexibility, kids can have plenty of fun while developing core skills like problem-solving, mathematical and spatial awareness, teamwork, collaboration and basic programming. Parents can also easily jump in and join their child in Minecraft, helping them unlock new levels of experience and push the boundaries of this virtual world. Minecraft can be played across computers, tablets, phones and consoles. The age rating of this virtual world depends on where it’s being played, but it’s rated 7+ across the EU and 10+ in the U.S. and Canada.
Minecraft is a cult favorite for kids and adults alike. And it’s easy to understand why. This ‘sandbox game’ doubles as a sprawling virtual world that is ideal for adventure, learning and creative exploration as users have total control over every aspect of their digital environments. Better yet, Minecraft has no rules which means that imagination is really just the limit when it comes to creating new worlds, no matter how big, eccentric or fantastical they might be. Naturally then, this virtual world is the perfect playground for children. Each user is given building blocks to create new digital infrastructures, characters, items or simply keep adding to what already exists inside the Minecraft universe. The younger ones will particularly enjoy playing along with their friends and they’re also unlikely to get easily bored or frustrated since Minecraft has four different game modes: adventure, creative, survival and hardcore. Because of this flexibility, kids can have plenty of fun while developing core skills like problem-solving, mathematical and spatial awareness, teamwork, collaboration and basic programming. Parents can also easily jump in and join their child in Minecraft, helping them unlock new levels of experience and push the boundaries of this virtual world. Minecraft can be played across computers, tablets, phones and consoles. The age rating of this virtual world depends on where it’s being played, but it’s rated 7+ across the EU and 10+ in the U.S. and Canada.
The much-loved Nintendo game "Animal Crossing” has gotten several updates over the years and New Horizons is just the latest version to capture the hearts of kids of all ages. The simulation game is set on a deserted island where players can customize their own personal paradise and craft a number of digital objects from tools to creature comforts. There are also a number of other attractions that are sure to fascinate any child like the possibility of experiencing the time of day and seasons that match real life no matter their hemisphere, fossil hunting explorations, fishing expeditions and the opportunity to experience all of this with family members and friends. This virtual world is ideal to help younger players explore their creativity and problem-solving skills that will no doubt also be useful in daily life. Parents can be assured that Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a secure environment as personal islands can only be “visited” if the player shares their code, making it difficult for strangers to interact with someone they don’t know. Animal Crossing: New Horizons received an "E" (Everyone") rating, making it one one of the best virtual worlds for children.
Let’s face it, anything Super Mario will be a game for the young and the young-at-heart. A longtime classic, Super Mario 3D World was first released back in 2013 but has recently been given a major boost with a new mode called “Bowser’s Fury.” In this virtual world, players must come to the rescue of friendly fairy-looking creatures known as Sprixies and similarly to Super Mario Bros., levels in Super Mario 3D World are split into multiple worlds where different tasks must be completed. Players can choose to be different characters like Mario, Luigi, Peach, Toad and Rosalina, with each having different abilities in running and jumping. Collecting power-ups along the game and keeping up with the bouncy energy of Super Mario makes this game a truly addictive experience that will keep your kid thoroughly entertained. With its excellent parental controls, Super Mario 3D World Bowser’s Fury is a safe virtual world that will make the whole family happy.
Lego’s building blocks are the ultimate childhood staple. And the good news is that the fun doesn’t stop in the real world. The company has a wide collection of online games where your child can freely explore the Lego universe across different online worlds, playing with favorite characters like Batman, Super Mario, Luke Skywalker or the Little Mermaid. Just like the physical Legos, the online games are a great opportunity for your kid to enhance spatial skills and let their imagination run wild. All games are specifically geared towards different levels of capabilities and tastes of children, catering to those with ages between 6 and 12. And given how many different titles Lego has on offer, kids are sure to be able to play without getting bored or too frustrated, and parents might even feel tempted to join in on the fun. And of course, parents need not worry as Lego games are, as always, very much age-appropriate.
