Storypanda

Stories move us to act. Action requires risk and our willingness to take risks is rooted in our emotions, themselves rooted in our values. One way we can translate our values into the emotions that can inspire action is by telling a story. ~ Marshall Ganz

Because I worked in the video game industry, in my neighborhood I’m the go to person when it comes to picking games for their kids. The problem many parents have is that their kids under 10 years old often pressure them about certain games. The parent reads the back, checks out the rating and gets confused. Some games say Teen but they really are safe for younger kids. Some say E for Everyone, but they might be frightening. Adding to the parent’s concern is their kids begging for a game because their friends play it. To help out, here is my quick run down of popular 2011 games that I wouldn’t let a 10 year play, and those that I would:

Don’t Touch:

• Call of Duty. There is material in there that even made me uncomfortable, like a certain level where you go on a massacare as a terrorist.
• Gears of War. I would say this is ok since it’s like an 80’s action movie, but it’s got some foul language throughout.
• LA Noire. Really mature stuff here.
• Resistance. Another gory shooter. 

If your kid is pressing for a shooter, go for any of the Metroid Prime games. They are older now, but still are fun.

Play on:

• Portal 2. Rating is for Everyone over 10, but this is a fun and challenging puzzler for all. It will really make your kid think.
• Batman: Arkham City. If you are ok with your kid reading Batman comics then you won’t have any problems here. But if your kid gets frightened by the darker tone of Batman, then you should avoid it.
• Uncharted 3. This is a modern day Indiana Jones. And every kid I knew growing up loved Indy. 
• Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword. Zelda is great for everyone. Every age group has a blast with this series.