Parents need to know that this is a massively multiplayer online game (MMOG) where combat is an integral part of gameplay. Some costumes can be mildly racy, and while there is a profanity filter, open chat can have its own interaction issues, especially for younger children. Making friends is encouraged and some of the quests can only be completed with a group. Role-playing is also encouraged and there is a "Marriage Counselor" in game that will perform "in-game marriages." The game is free to play, however some coveted items cost real money. The content is broad and deep, making this MMO easily comparable to a popular paid games such as World of Warcraft and EverQuest.
Educational value:Players will learn teamwork and Internet etiquette when playing MMOGs, and often improve their typing skills and spelling or language as well. Players participating in the in-game economy will also learn the entrepreneurial skills of buying low and selling high, and learn the value of reputation.
Positive messages:Group play is highly encouraged in the game and quests are often for the purpose of protecting the townfolk or assisting them in some way. A "Friends" lists is available for players to enter the names of their friends and find them easily if they are online. In-game marriages are possible.
Violence:No blood and gore but you are required to kill creatures to advance your character in this game.
Sex:Some female avatars start off with old school, Vallejo-isc metal panties and there is a "boobie" slider in avatar creation that can give your female characters covered, but bombastic breasts. The "housekeeper" who assists you with your housing wears a "French maid" costume and male avatars can take off their shirts to reveal their upper bodies.
Language:A naughty word filter is "on" but this game has an open chat system which carries its own dangers. A system is available for players to place other players in Coventry, that is to say, you will no longer see their speech or text.
Consumerism:Free to play. but vanity items such as pets and convenience items such as mounts (horses to ride on) will cost real world money and expire after some time. Other items for sale include furniture for players' houses and some high-end recipes and armor.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking:No drugs or tobacco use is game, but in a medievalistic fantasy world, various brews such as ale and beer can be brewed or bought in a tavern.
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My husband and I play this game with our 11 year old and a couple of other friends. We play on a PvE server, avoiding PvP activity. There is a lot of combat, but it's not gruesome. Teamwork is very necessary. There is a language filter, though the F word gets through sometimes in world chat. Players can't take their underwear off, so no one's ever completely naked. Some very helpful items, like permanent riding mounts, cost real money. Overall we've found it an acceptable world to explore as a family.
Perfect for those 13 and over. Great for teamwork building.
It's absolutely my favorite game ever! The profanity filter doesn't always work... but you've probably heard all the words that could be said anyway. If you haven't, you're not old enough to be playing this game. 13+ is what i would suggest, because you CAN take off your clothes. Though Females keep on a bra and panties and males some shorts.
It definitely encourages teamwork. You will HAVE to at some point work together with someone else to complete your quests. The dungeon quests specifically, like those for the Top Secret Spy set, require you to join a group and go through Forsaken Abbey and Bloody Gallery.
Overall, i love this game and would rate it 10 stars if i could!!