Free Realms

Let the Kids Game

by Mike Smith

Looking to get up to speed on best-practice tips for being a good gaming parent? Free Realms publisher Sony Online Entertainment and family gaming specialists WhatTheyPlay.com have teamed up to bring you this booklet that'll give you all the info you need to ensure your kids have a healthy, happy experience playing Free Realms -- or any other game, online or off. Here's what What They Play's president John Davidson has to say in its foreword.

"Video games are currently an $18 billion business worldwide, and their impact on our popular culture becomes more significant each year. Most kids are perfectly comfortable with game consoles and computers, both online and off, but the whole video gaming concept can be a little intimidating for parents.

"Thousands of titles are released annually; trying to keep up with them can be a challenge, even for those who write and talk about video games for a living. That’s why I’m so pleased to be part of this initiative to educate parents about video games. The more we can inform and empower moms and dads, the better. Ultimately, the best (and only) judge of what’s appropriate for your family is you.

"Video games are similar to movies and television shows that vary widely in theme and execution, from lighthearted and cartoonlike to complex and adult oriented. The truth is that they’re just as capable of making us think, laugh and enjoy positive interactions as they are of providing us with visceral thrills. The more we know, the more positive the gaming experience can be for our families – and the more opportunities we’ll have to embarrass our children by appearing to know what we’re talking about." -- John Davidson, President and Co-founder, What They Like, Inc.

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