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ESPN Arcade (http://arcade.espn.go.com)

common sense media says

Tame gaming site has a few gambling options.

parents & educators say
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What parents need to know

Parents need to know that among the fun, free, and innocuous sports and puzzle games on this site there are also a few adult-themed games that have bar settings and gambling scenarios. Banner ads are almost exclusively dedicated to the promotion of casinos and gambling sites. By registering, members can safely chat and use the message boards on ESPN.com's main site, which is linked to from ESPN Arcade.

Educational value: Not much. Some games (Sudoku) require kids to use some brain cells.
Positive messages: Online games in nature do suck kids in so parents might want to set time limits. Games are pretty simple, but their settings can sometimes be adult in nature, like the "Bar Bowling" and card games. Card games encourage betting.
Violence: Not applicable.
Sex: Even the tackle sports games don't have any violence.
Language: Language can be mildly abrasive in some games.
Consumerism: There is little commercialism in the games except for the promotion of the ESPN network. In addition to the virtual betting games, banner ads for casinos and online gaming sites appear on almost every page.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Several traditional bar games, such as darts and bar bowling are available, and most have a bar setting, complete with full mugs of beer.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

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What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about gambling and online gaming issues. Why do people risk their money to play at casinos and online? How does this type of entertainment affect people? Sportsmanship can also be discussed. What is the difference between friendly competition and aggressive behavior? What are the qualities of a good sport? Finally, physical fitness can be explored. Is there a sport you would like to try in real life?

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 
The graphics are clean and simple, but realistic, and the games lack complexity: There's usually one stated goal for each game, such as make as many baskets as possible or be the first car to cross the finish line. Several traditional bar games, such as darts and bar bowling are available, and most have a bar setting, complete with full mugs of beer. Also, card games such as Texas Hold 'em poker are available and players use betting chips to wager against other players (both real and virtual).

For the most part, the games are simple, nonviolent, and not as competitive as most console sports programs.

This review was written by Jacqueline Rupp
 
 

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Most useful reviews by all members

Mschevious20
parent of 12 year old
13
 
I think espn arcade is sooo much better then newgrounds or armour games I say it is good for kids who like sports or just like to have fun.
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ON: Content is appropriate for kids this age.
PAUSE: Know your child, some content may not be right for some kids
OFF: Not age appropriate for kids this age
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