See more website reviews

Psyclops (http://www.psyclopshq.com/)

common sense media says

Music-making meets social networking in iPod-enabled tool.

parents & educators say
See 2 reviews | Review it

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this site is part music-making tool and part promotion for iPod accessories. The site is tied to the Psyclops line of character iPod covers (compatible only with the Nano). Users who purchase a cover can unlock an interactive online world that allows for music and dance production and also social networking with friends. You don't have to buy the cover to put together tunes on the Web site.

Educational value: For kids who are just beginning to explore music making, this Web site offers the opportunity to compose simple tracks and play around with musical elements, like drum and bass lines and melodic effects.
Positive messages: Not applicable.
Violence: Not applicable.
Sex: Not applicable.
Language: Not applicable.
Consumerism: Although you can play for free, part of this Web site involves the purchase of iPod covers. These covers, which come in the shape of the Psyclops characters that play on the Web site, run from $14.99-$19.99 and can be purchased directly from the Web site. Users who purchase a cover can unlock special areas of the Web site.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not applicable.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on Psyclops

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about integrated media. Can you name an example of an item crossing over to different media? Do you think there will be other "virtual community" tie-ins with movies and video games in the near future? If you own an iPod, do you think this technology is something you'd be interesting in using?

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 
As far as online interactive "pets" go, Psyclops is not as multidimensional as some. Although the super-easy "Music Maker" feature is a highlight of the site, the "Dance Creator" isn't all that. What you will get from this site, if you buy the iPod cover that is, is an interactive Web site that links your electronic music player to the Web and a social site with lots of tween eye candy and music -- plus a protective iPod cover that can apparently keep that pricey piece of electronics safe from clumsy hands. Is it safe? Yes. Is it worth the money? That's up to you.
This review was written by Jacqueline Rupp
 
 

Review It

 

Review Psyclops

Hang on! You need to be a member to post your review.
A safe community is important to us. Please observe our guidelines.
 

Most useful reviews by all members

votemichelle
parent of 8 and 16 year old
8
 
A must-have for kids who have a knack for music and creativity~!
I loved this iphone app! I first read about it at Macworld 2009, and being a musician myself, I hoped to somehow get my kids into music. Since the website is free, I tested out my theory on my youngest child. She is almost 8, and I think it may of taken her all of 5 minutes to get goin on a song! she was so excited to make something all her own! I am so happy to be able to share the gift of music with my kids, without having to worry about their safety. thanks!!
Flag as inappropriate 
was this review useful?
helped me decide (5) | had useful details (5) | read my mind (4)
haddad fan
kid, 12 years old
13
 
for 13 and over
There is inappropriate Content, block Psyclops HQ younger than 13!
Flag as inappropriate 
was this review useful?
helped me decide (3) | had useful details (2) | read my mind (3)

More reviews ...

An independent voice for families
Age-appropriate reviews
Advice on the big issues
 

vote now

Will you visit Psyclops?

Absolutely
Maybe
No way

Already visited it? What do you think?

I recommend it
It's a pass
 

Great alternatives handpicked by our editors

Browse more websites
About our rating system
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
Our child development rating guidelines