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LEGO Universe is a massively multiplayer online game (MMOG) that was launched in October
2010 by Warner Brothers. Although the game is rated for players age 10 and up, it also appeals to
adults who are gamers and who have grown up with LEGO. Players are able to play in two
different worlds for free, though universal access to all features requires a monthly $10
subscription. Players download the game from the LEGO Universe website and then access the
game on secure servers. The game is available in English and German.
The popularity of LEGO extends back to 1949 when the interlocking plastic bricks were first
produced in Denmark. Since that time, the company has expanded into books, games,
amusement parks, robotics and video games. The attraction to LEGO is its simplistic block-by-
block designs whereby children (and adults) can build anything they desire. The creation of LEGO
Universe is not only an additional branch of LEGO - it is a marketing tool to further establish the
LEGO brand.
About the Virtual World
In LEGO Universe, players take the role of LEGO minifigures in an age-old battle of good versus
evil in an alternate universe. A maelstrom is the center of the dark energy that threatens the
universe. Players split up into teams (or factions) to try and destroy the maelstrom and a beast
called a Spider Queen in various worlds. Players collect battle gear on their journey to help them
fight their foes. Players also collect LEGO bricks along the way to build models on their personal
property. Properties are like a home base where the player is safe and is able to allow fellow
players access to their property.
What's Good
LEGO Universe is an action-oriented game that will appeal mainly to tween boys and older teens
who are fascinated with futuristic worlds and fantasy. The graphics and overall design of the game
are top-notch. With LEGO and Warner Brothers partnering on this project, you would expect
nothing but rich colors, detailed images and a solid platform. Parents can be reassured that there
are no adult themes in the game. There is no drinking, smoking, drug use, sex or offensive
language. Words that are not found in the dictionary will not be shown.
LEGO Universe offers an easy-to-navigate website for parents to find out information about the
game, registration, online safety and customer service. Players can easily connect with fellow
players in an online community, share game plans and become friends anonymously. The LEGO
brand is heavily promoted through the website and not through the game. Although tokens cannot
be accumulated to buy LEGO merchandise, players can easily browse the entire LEGO catalogue
online to purchase LEGO products.
What's Bad
Violence may be an issue with some parents. Although there is no blood or gore that can be
associated with adult video games, players are involved in an intense battle of good versus evil
that may be a bit extreme for younger players. Swords, knives, hammers and laser guns are used
as weapons. Although the players are only made of LEGO, characters do get smashed, broken
and die. The facial expressions on most of the evil characters can be quite obtuse and unsettling
for younger players.
Parents may see an increase of requests for LEGO products just because the LEGO brand is
associated with the game. Younger players may find the storyline complicated, but their familiarity
with online gaming should ease them into the story. Some themes may be too intense for younger
players. Parents should browse the game with younger players and discuss these themes.
LEGO has traditionally been a popular children's toy that has succeeded because of high quality
and standards. LEGO has done an excellent job of promoting online safety and has provided
parents with many tools to share concerns about safety or design issues with LEGO Universe.
LEGO's online safety message is prominently displayed and spelled out in easy-to-understand
language. A moderator is a prominent role within the game and in online chatting to ensure a
child's safety.
Players and parents should be aware that the game is scheduled to be shut down at the end of
January 2012. Though the game is based on the popular LEGO blocks, the company is
disappointed with the game's online presence and has decided to shut LEGO Universe down.
Players with existing paid memberships will enjoy one free month of play in January. Refunds for
any unused credit will be paid back to the credit card holder beginning February 1, 2012.
This review was written by a responsible parent and media professional who runs a children's
games review website. Click on the links for more useful reviews on cool kids games and fun
websites for kids.
Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Aldric_Chang
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