Parents' Guide to Gameboys Level-Up Edition

TV Netflix Drama 2020
Gameboys Level-Up-Edition TV Poster: Elijah Canlas and Kokoy De Santos lean their heads against each other, smiling.

Common Sense Media Review

By Ty'Kira Smalls , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 13+

Sweet series follows online romance during a pandemic.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 13+?

Any Positive Content?

Parent and Kid Reviews

What's the Story?

GAMEBOYS LEVEL-UP EDITION follows the blooming online romance between two gamers during the pandemic. After Cairo (Elijah Canlas) is defeated during his gaming livestream by Gavreel (Kokoy De Santos,) all Cairo wants is a rematch. To his surprise, all Gavreel wants is a date with him! Through video calls, the playful and confident Gavreel melts Cairo's serious and skeptical core. But offline, COVID-19, crossed wires, and family drama threaten their virtual bond.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say : Not yet rated
Kids say : Not yet rated

This series plays a sugary-sweet game with romance against the backdrop of current, real-world problems. Gameboys Level-Up Edition is innovative, charming, and layered. The usage of social media and visual effects in the narrative is very clever and makes for a modern/relatable romance. The chemistry between De Santos and Canlas is enticing and emotional (though those who are easily embarrassed might cringe at the intense flirting.) For parents, there's a lot of conversation potential with their kids about the pandemic, grief, social media, and sexuality.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how the pandemic is portrayed in Gameboys Level-Up Edition. How do the characters address the pandemic and current events? Why do you think the creators did this? How does it affect you as a viewer? Can you think of other TV shows or movies that address the pandemic?

  • How do characters demonstrate compassion? How do they demonstrate empathy? Why are these important character traits?

  • How does this series utilize digital media and visual effects? What does this do for the story? How does it affect you as a viewer?

TV Details

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Gameboys Level-Up-Edition TV Poster: Elijah Canlas and Kokoy De Santos lean their heads against each other, smiling.

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