Poptropica is a fun website for kids that was launched in September 2011 by the Family Education Network. Poptropica is aimed at children from age 6 to 15 and exists in an educational format where children play games, travel and communicate with each other only at a safe level. Though the game's format remains the same, there is a new game (called an island) that changes every so often. Players are given advanced notice when an island will end and a new one is created.
Before 2010, membership fees did not exist. Memberships begin at $ 3.95 per month for US one month; $ 10.95 US for six months; and $ 19.95 US for an annual membership. Prices vary according to what country a player is from-simply click on the corresponding country and the price for that country willautomatically be displayed. Paid members get free access to items in the Poptropica store (but do not own them). They also get early access to new islands. There is a free membership for children; however, their movement within the virtual world is limited. Players can also gain access to special costumes for their avatar and gain exclusive abilities by purchasing Poptropica credits. These credits can also be obtained by completing online games. Poptropica requires a broadband internet connection, at least 512 MB of RAM and the installation of Adobe Flash Player. The game is played through Poptropica's website.
Features
The main focus of Poptropica is the avatar's travels through the islands that are released throughout the year. These are mini-adventures which follow a plotthat usually involves players solving puzzles, riddles or clues from past historical events that are educational in some manner. Some of the plots may be too complex for younger players, but since there have been a myriad of islands created, there is no shortage of content from which to choose from. In July 2011, made all Poptropica islands available to older players to play again. There are now over 20 islands to choose from.
What's Good
Poptropica is an educational website that will appeal mainly to children from age 7 to 15. The wide range of appeal is mainly due to two factors: the absence of graphic violence and non-safe chat; and the educational component and above-average plots of each island. Creating an educational MMORPG that is a success is a challenge because itmust be able to hold the attention of older players who are more than used to adult-themed games. For Poptropica to be a success, the educational component must use humor, light-heartedness and a sophisticated but understandable plot. Poptropica has succeeded in these key areas.
What's Bad
Acquiring merchandise for their avatars and toys outside the game may be an issue, but the positives far outweigh this minor negative.
Online Safety
The part of all virtual worlds that get negative marks is online chat. The owners of Poptropica have wisely decided not to go down this path. The only chat available is safe, pre-scripted chat. No personal information about children is ever collected and since there is no chat, it is never shared. A parent is in control when payingand renewing a membership. The safety policy is prominently displayed and written plainly.
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