Fortnite Battle Royale has taken the world by storm, captivating millions of players worldwide, including a significant number of children and teenagers. This popular online video game, developed by Epic Games, is a survival game where players compete against each other to be the last one standing in a shrinking play area.
With its colorful graphics, engaging gameplay, and the ability to play with friends, it's no wonder that Fortnite has become a cultural phenomenon. However, as a parent, it's essential to be aware of the potential risks that come with playing Fortnite Battle Royale.
In this article, we will discuss seven key risks that parents need to know about Fortnite Battle Royale and provide recommendations on how to address them.
Fortnite Battle Royale Risks
1. Excessive Screen Time: Fortnite is incredibly addictive, and players often find themselves spending hours on end playing the game. Excessive screen time can lead to a range of health issues, including eye strain, sleep disturbances, and a sedentary lifestyle, which can contribute to obesity. Moreover, excessive gaming can also lead to addiction, affecting a child's academic performance and social interactions.
2. In-Game Purchases: Fortnite is free to play, but it offers in-game purchases that allow players to buy virtual items like skins, emotes, and other cosmetics. These purchases are made using the game's virtual currency, V-bucks, which can be bought with real money. Children may be tempted to spend large amounts of money on these virtual items, leading to unexpected expenses and potential conflicts with parents.
3. Exposure to Violence: Although Fortnite has a cartoonish style and does not depict blood or gore, it is still a game centered around combat and violence. Players use a variety of weapons to eliminate their opponents, and the objective is to be the last one standing. Parents should be aware that exposure to violent content, even in a cartoonish setting, can have an impact on a child's behavior and desensitisation to violence.
4. Online Interactions: Fortnite is an online multiplayer game, meaning that players can interact with others from around the world. While this can be a positive experience, it also opens up the possibility of negative interactions, such as bullying, offensive language, and exposure to inappropriate content. There is also the risk of encountering online predators who may seek to exploit children.
5. Privacy Concerns: Playing Fortnite requires creating an account with Epic Games, and players have the option to share personal information, such as their name, age, and location. Additionally, the game also tracks players' in-game activities and interactions. Parents should be aware of the privacy concerns associated with sharing personal information online and the potential risks of data breaches.
6. Impact on Social Skills: While playing Fortnite can provide an opportunity for social interaction with friends, excessive gaming can lead to social isolation. Spending too much time playing video games can limit a child's opportunities for real-world social interactions, leading to underdeveloped social skills and a lack of meaningful relationships.
7. Exposure to Dark Patterns: Dark patterns are design techniques used in video games and websites to manipulate users into making decisions that benefit the company, often at the expense of the user. In Fortnite, dark patterns can be seen in the way the game encourages players to make in-game purchases or play the game for extended periods. Parents should be aware of these manipulative techniques and educate their children on how to recognize and resist them.
As a parent, what should I do?
Now that we have discussed the risks associated with playing Fortnite Battle Royale, here are some recommendations for parents:
1. Set Limits: Establish clear boundaries for screen time and enforce them consistently. Encourage your child to take regular breaks from the screen and engage in other activities, such as physical exercise, reading, or spending time with family and friends.
2. Monitor In-Game Purchases: Be aware of the in-game purchases available in Fortnite and have a conversation with your child about the value of money and the importance of spending wisely. Consider setting up parental controls to limit or restrict in-game purchases.
3. Discuss the Content: Have a conversation with your child about the content of the game, including the violence and the interactions with other players. Make sure they understand the difference between the virtual world and the real world and the importance of treating others with respect.
4. Protect Privacy: Educate your child about the importance of protecting their personal information online and the potential risks associated with sharing personal details. Make sure they understand the privacy settings of the game and how to use them.
5. Encourage Healthy Social Interactions: Encourage your child to balance their online interactions with real-world social activities. Foster opportunities for them to develop meaningful relationships with friends and family outside of the gaming environment.
6. Educate About Dark Patterns: Explain to your child the concept of dark patterns and how they are used in video games and other online platforms. Teach them how to recognise and resist these manipulative techniques.
While Fortnite Battle Royale can be an enjoyable and engaging game for children and teenagers, it is important for parents to be aware of the potential risks associated with playing the game. By setting clear boundaries, monitoring in-game purchases, discussing the content, protecting privacy, encouraging healthy social interactions, and educating about dark patterns, parents can help ensure a safe and positive gaming experience for their children. Stay vigilant and stay informed.