NFL Rush Zone (http://nflrz.nflrush.com/)

common sense media says

Sporty virtual world scores with fun, goofy games.


parents & educators say

What parents need to know

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.

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.
Positive 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 applicable.
Sex: Not applicable.
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 applicable.

More on NFL Rush Zone

What to talk about

Talk to your kids

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.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 

NFLRZ scores with its lively animation and creative concept, although diehard fans looking for info on teams, players, and stats -- or chat about sports -- won't find much of that here. But kids who are mostly interested in game play should enjoy the site's dozens of simple but addictive arcade-style offerings, like the goofy Haunted Ghoulpost and Blitz Bot Conga Chaos, which don't require a premium membership. One caveat: The site can be extremely slow to load at times.

Website themes & details


This review was written by Susan Yudt
 
 

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Most useful reviews by all members

michellenumbers
parent of 8 and 10 year old
 
Perfect for 10 year olds.
Love this site, so do my boys!

jwatwin
kid, 9 years old
 
Perfect for 6-12
I use it all the time! NFL Rush Zone is a great place for kids. I can spend all day on it.

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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