Brawl Stars
PEGI RATING: 7+
WHAT IS IT? Brawl Stars is a aerial view gaming app created by Finnish mobile game development company Supercell, the makers of Clash of Clans and Clash Royale. In this multiplayer shooter game, “Brawlers” attack other brawlers in three-on-three, duo, solo, special and competitive events or battles. Players can select their Brawler’s distinctive attack, super (special attack), and health. WHAT WE SAY: Treat with caution. Access to Inappropriate Content: Brawl Stars is a combat-based multiplayer game that is rated for ages 7 and up. While it doesn’t contain explicit content like nudity or sexual material, there are still potential concerns, especially when players are exposed to inappropriate in-game behaviour or content shared through the game's community aspects. Direct Messaging:Brawl Stars has limited direct messaging, but there are still ways for players to communicate indirectly, particularly in team-based modes or through clans, where players can chat with others. Online Predators and Grooming:The risk of online predators is a concern for any game that includes social interaction features. While Brawl Stars doesn't have open messaging between all players, there’s still a possibility for grooming if children are allowed to communicate freely with strangers. Cyberbullying: Players can be exposed to negative or harmful behaviour, such as harassment, teasing, or exclusion by other players. Privacy Risks: Brawl Stars collects certain personal information (like device data and potentially location information, depending on permissions granted). If a child’s account is not properly protected, they may be at risk of having their data exposed. |
SAFETY TIPS:
In-Game Chat: While the chat feature is censored, it can still lead to exposure to profanity and expose your children to strangers with ill intentions. In App purchases: Brawl Stars has tempting in-app purchases that are pushed to players encouraging them to spend real world money for in-game items. Reporting tools: Brawl Stars offers a reportig feature that allows players to report inappropriate behaviour or content. Parents Guide: Check out the Parent's Guide for further support and guidance. Disable chat: Parents can turn off chat features in the settings or restrict communication to friends only. Parental supervision: Check their interactions and adjust privacy settings accordingly. FURTHER SUPPORT: For parents/ carers If you're worried about your child or need support call NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000. If you discover criminal content when online then report it directly to the police or the Internet Watch Foundation. If you're worried about online grooming or sexual behaviour online then report directly to the police or contact CEOP. For Children & young people if they're worried or want to talk, encourage them to contact Childline Online or call 0800 1111. Check out our Resource Centre for further information and useful online safety tips. |