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  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 6, age appropriate for kids over 8; suggested age 8.
  • Is it any good?

    3.0
  • Common Sense says

    Sporty virtual world scores with fun, goofy games.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 8 and Up

The good stuff

  • Educational value:

    The game encourages kids to exercise and make healthy food choices. Most games are just for fun, although some involve a bit of strategy and critical thinking.
 

What to watch out for

  • Messages:

    As in most virtual worlds, some users are friendly, and others are (mildly) rude. Kids could feel rejected if other users ignore them.
  • Violence:

    Not an issue.
  • Sex:

    Not an issue.
  • Language:

    Safe chat only -- players are limited to pre-approved words and phrases.
  • Consumerism:

    Some content is restricted to players with a premium membership, which costs $4.95 per month (users are prompted to upgrade). There's a tie-in with Upper Deck sports trading cards.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Not an issue.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About NFL Rush Zone

Parents need to know that this NFL virtual world and gaming site charges $4.95 a month for a premium membership. Kids can access most of the site for free but are encouraged to upgrade. Registration requires a user name, password, email address, and birth date; kids who are under 13 must provide a parent's email address. Chat is only available in safe mode, which prevents kids from entering personal information or using profanity. Kids could feel rejected or frustrated if their attempts to chat or play games are ignored. There's no "friending" feature right now, but the site plans to add one in the future.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about what's reasonable and what's excessive when it comes to playing games online (watch our video about online gaming). Since the game rewards players for eating well, parents can also talk about the media's mixed messages on nutrition. Diet is a key part of success in athletics, so why are sports stars often seen promoting soda and fast food? For tips, check out Talking to Your Kids About Junk Food and Fast Food Advertising.

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