MMO BinA Geek's Look at Massively Multiplayer Online Games

Free Realms has finally started sending out beta invites to those who have signed up via the web site. With so many new games being developed it’s nice to hear about some that are releasing specifically for younger children, in the case of Free Realms it’s aimed at kids ages 9-14 although there are certainly parts of the game that will interest those of all ages. 

If you’re not familiar with the game it’s an MMORPG developed by Sony Online Entertainment set in a fantasy themed world with bright bold colours and cartoon like characters. 

The game is host to a number of things for your character can do as opposed to most MMORPG’s that offer a hack and slash main focus. These include things like  mini-games, housing, combat, pet-raising, exploration and building. 

Free Realms is available to download and play free of charge (it’s also coming to the PS3 as well as the PC) but you can also snag yourself a subscription for $5/m or a family plan of $10/m which allows you to log in up to five characters at the same time, great for those with families who are looking for a kid-safe game for their children to play.

This certainly isn’t the first MMO aimed at a younger audience and for those parents who may be gamers themselves, it’s a nice way to introduce your children to gaming. There’s also FusionFall which is the Cartoon Networks universe and has a huge following of players not to mention my personal favorite Wizard 101 where people of all ages can enjoy Wizard City and its card based combat as well as unique pets and outfits. KingsIsle has also just recently announced that player housing will be incorporated into the game in late spring allowing wizards to purchase and customize their own spaces, something a lot of the player base has been looking forward to.

It’s great to see so many options opening up in regards to gaming. One could argue that there is perhaps too much choice now and the decision on what to play is more complicated then it ever was in the past - but personally speaking I love it. Whether you’re young or old, have children or not, the games certainly warrant a look if for no other reason to suggest to a friend who may be searching for a family friendly MMORPG. 

Are there other family-friendly MMO’s out there that you’re currently playing or want to suggest people check out? Feel free to leave a comment below!

Playing online games is like entering a different world, where people are the same as you, but different. You take on a persona, someone who you’d like to be, and that heightens your interactions with the game. Players create their own history, their own future, and true fans, extend the universe beyond the original creators intent.

Below is a fan made video that proves to me how powerful fans can be in marketing, and building an MMO’s culture.

This film covers a bit from the Caldari-Gallente war. It’s set 200 years ago, before any of the 4 races had pod technology. I tried to use ships that may have been around back then, though sadly there’s not a huge amount of information that I could find.

HD VERSION

Doesn’t that video make you want to play EVE Online?