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Urbaniacs (http://www.urbaniacs.com)

common sense media says

Smashing social superhero game for teens and up.

parents & educators say
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What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this sophisticated social gaming site allows users 13 and up to chat and post in forums. There's no language filter, but the site's administrators and community members are very committed to keeping things family friendly. (Both adults and teens participate.) We didn't come across any strong language, sexual content, or hating. Although there are "assaults" and "battles," they're of the Dungeons and Dragons variety -- they don't actually depict violence. The site is very complex, and some teens may get frustrated trying to figure out what to do. There's some rudeness and scatological humor.

Educational value: The game requires teens to think and strategize to some extent.
Positive messages: The community is friendly and helpful. You can give people props to increase their respectability. You can also dis people, but that's usually reserved for users who aren't playing nice. There are some rude phrases like, "[Name] challenged you to a battle because you're ugly."
Violence: Battles are mild and cartoon-like.
Sex: No sexy avatars.
Language: Nothing stronger than "WTF" and "pimp" (as in "pimped out").
Consumerism: Banner ads. Users can buy things with virtual currency and place wagers on battles.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not applicable.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on Urbaniacs

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about joining established online communities. In addition to the site's official rules, there are some unwritten expectations about etiquette. For instance, if someone gives you props, it's nice to return the favor. How do you pick up on these social cues? In real life, how do you act if you're joining a new group or club? Families can also talk about setting appropriate time limits for game play, since this site can be very absorbing.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 
Urbaniacs.com has all the typical features of a virtual world, like games, chatting, and shopping. But it also has a complex -- and friendly -- community with a rich back story. Plus, there are creative touches like a virtual savings account, a citywide lottery, and a studio for mixing your own four-track superhero theme song. (You can put it on your UrboPod and embed it on your MySpace profile.) Teens who enjoy the challenge of learning sophisticated social games will feel right at home in Urbanville. Yes, there are games about farts and wedgies, but even superheroes can't be serious all the time.
This review was written by Susan Yudt
 
 

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Most useful reviews by all members


kid, 12 years old
11
 
the "your b*tt" is very inappropriate
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teen, 14 years old
11
 
the "your b*tt" is very inappropriate
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helped me decide (2) | had useful details (2) | read my mind (3)

kid, 11 years old
11
 
the "your b*tt" is very inappropriate
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helped me decide (2) | had useful details (2) | read my mind (3)
Pure bad
teen, 13 years old
10
 
l liked it!
i love it and i play it every day and there is nothing bad
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helped me decide (3) | had useful details (1) | read my mind (2)
skater922
kid, 13 years old
10
 
idk....
i think this is not so bad
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helped me decide (2) | had useful details (1) | read my mind (1)

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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
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