Notes

Why is it so Well-known?

So how does Minecraft work and is it safe to use it for children? Here's everything you need.
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Minecraft is a virtual 'sandbox' game. Players build their own virtual worlds and experiences by using resources or building blocks. While you'll need start with the basics before moving on to more complex resources, you will eventually be able to create your world in any way you like.



While the price range is variable little depending on the game's platform, Minecraft is never going cost more than PS25 and this higher price includes all mods (community made developments to the game) and skins (aesthetic additions to the character). You can play Minecraft on your tablet, smartphone, or computer.



You can choose to play in a single player or multiplayer mode. Multiplayer mode allows players to work together to create their Minecraft world.



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Why is it so popular?



Minecraft is a very free-form game. There aren't any rules or goals. Players can design and explore as they please. It's often described as a virtual Lego.



This means that Minecraft players have plenty of freedom in how they play. They can create their own fantasy world or create the whole thing from scratch, they can battle villains and pursue adventure, and they can play alone or with friends.



It is also played at any level. You'll require an aforementioned level of expertise to move up to the next level in a variety of popular games. This is a problem for kids just five years old who may not have the time or skills to advance in the game. In Minecraft, children can create their own adventures at any level of play.



What do parents need to be aware of?



Age restrictions



Different Minecraft versions have different age restrictions. Certain mods could have more violence than others. Remember that Minecraft provides in-game chat. Age ratings range from 7+ to 13+.



The standard version of Minecraft's terms and conditions specify that children aged 13 and under require parental consent to play. In the UK, if children under the age of 13 play Minecraft without parental consent it is a violation of the terms and conditions of the site however it isn't illegal.



Despite the age limit, Minecraft is very popular with primary school children. The game isn't inappropriate for children.



Chat functions



There are two types of chat in Minecraft: Realms and Server chats. Mojang, the game developers, hosts realm chat and moderators it. Server chat is created by individual players. Usually players will invite friends to join their Minecraft server and use the chat however, some players provide an open invitation that allows anyone to join.



Inform children about the dangers associated with talking to people they don't know online.



Remember that players might also be chatting via Discord, a different chat platform with different safety settings. Make sure children are not using other platforms to communicate.



Chat features allow children to communicate with others who share similar passions for gaming. However, there is no way to know who these people might be. Recommend that young children don't talk with other players through in-game chat unless they know them.



It is also essential that children don't give away any personal information about themselves, or transfer their conversations into other online areas that could be considered private.



Minecraft YouTube videos



Many Minecraft users are fans of fan-created YouTube videos to enhance their skills and learn new techniques.



A lot of them are appropriate for children. Minecraft does not contain any graphic content. However, some videos include spiders, monsters, and zombies that some children might find scary. Some of the videos have commentary with profanity or sexual references, while others discuss or even encourage bullying. These videos may be suitable for you.



You can search for 'profanity-free Minecraft servers'. Even then it might be worthwhile to check the videos prior to young children watch them.



YouTube's Safety Mode can be turned on to block content that is inappropriate.



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Reporting functions



Minecraft currently does not offer an instant "report" function. Your child should be careful when joining an online server. Your child might be exposed to offensive language and rude comments if they are gaming with someone older than them. Minecraft reserves the right to suspend any player who violates the terms and conditions.



You can report individual players by visiting Minecraft's help desk, and submitting complaints. This could be something an adult should do instead of a child as it is a little complicated.



With certain plugins (add-on software that allows you to customize or extend the game), you can report players who violate the rules of the server to a moderator who will expel anyone who is offensive or disruptive.



Do you have something you do not like? You can email [email protected] to submit comments and feedback.


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