Games

Games come in all sorts of shapes and sizes

Short and simple like Poppit to MASSIVE MULTIPLAYER ones like Runescape and WOW (World of Warcraft).

They’re all very different but, whatever the game and whatever the device – laptop, phone, games console, the rules are the same.

Read on to learn about how to be a SMART gamer....

Top Tips

  • Study the rating of an online game carefully, often they will let you know if it suitable for someone your age.
  • Read the terms and conditions of the sites that you use and check if there are special safety features for kids.
  • Set-up your user profile to include appropriate language and game content for someone your age.
  • Make sure your parents or carers know your gamertag and how to access your online account so they can help you if something goes wrong.
  • Set time limits for yourself – you could use a mobile phone to set an alarm to keep to your limit.
Print Top Tips HERE »

Nasty Gamers

Some users of games are just on the look out to spoil other gamers’ days. Visit the Net Nasties area to learn more about troubleshooting.

Jamster from GB:

"If you play games on the internet never tell people your password!"

HOW SMART ARE YOU?

 

Games consoles

Your Xbox 360, PS3, or Wii could be subject to online invaders! Make sure your parent or carer checks security settings on your console before you go online.

Wireless access

Before you jump on just any wireless connection with your PSP or DS, make sure you know the network is safe and you’ve checked with an adult. The same goes for games on your mobile. When in doubt, check it out.

Screenshots

Ever been playing an online game when suddenly someone starts saying bad things? Use the ‘print screen’ button on your keyboard to take a screen shot of the foul language and report it to the website. Use your shot as evidence.

Netiquette Keep it positive!

Online games sites and forums are not the place to hassle other people. ‘Flaming’ or ‘trolling’ others is irresponsible and wastes people’s time. Keep your conversations and posts positive.

Undercover!

What does your gamertag or username reveal about your true identity? Make sure it doesn’t give away any personal information such as your name or location. Go undercover and use a nickname instead!

 

Staying smart online

Do you know what to do if a griefer starts hassling you online? Who do you tell? Where can you turn? Check out the report abuse section of the games website you’re on or, if you’re on your console playing, make sure you know how to block a user and save the evidence of their abuse. Always let an adult know if you think you are being cyberbullied.

 

Games available from our site to play

Screen shot: Join Hands

Join Hands Screen shot: Digizen

Digizen

Find Out More…

  • On our great sites section where you can find more games to play and cool activities to do.
  • ON these KidSMART pages:
  • Chat
  • On these websites:
  • www.chatdanger.com A website about staying safe when chatting on the internet