FORTNITE
FORTNITE
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MINIMUM AGE: 12+
WHAT IS IT? Fortnite is a fast-paced, online multiplayer game where players collaborate to survive by battling other characters controlled by the game itself or other players. WHAT WE SAY: Treat with caution. Access to Inappropriate Content: While Fortnite’s cartoony style minimises graphic content, the core gameplay still revolves around combat, which some players (especially younger ones) may find extreme. In open lobbies and voice chats, players may encounter profanity, bullying, or harassment from others. This can also include players encouraging risky or harmful behaviours, like gambling on in-game items. Direct Messaging Fortnite allows direct communication through in-game chat and voice, as well as linking with external platforms (e.g., Discord, Xbox, PlayStation Network). Players, especially younger ones, can easily be contacted by strangers by DM. Direct messaging opens up risks for sharing personal details that can be misused. Financial Risks Fortnite uses microtransactions for items like skins, emotes, and other cosmetic features. Players can spend significant amounts of money on in-game purchases. Players may encounter scams, especially around trading in-game items or buying rare skins. |
TIPS TO CONSIDER:
Ensure you take advantage of Fortnite's parental controls, which offer valuable features to help manage your child's gaming experience. They provide an instructional video provided to learn how to set up these controls effectively. Online multiplayer games like Fortnite don’t have a pause option. While setting clear screen time limits is important, asking kids to stop mid-battle can feel frustrating for them. Instead, have a conversation about how much time you both feel comfortable with them playing and agree on consistent expectations. This way, they can enjoy the game responsibly, with less stress for everyone involved. To prevent accidental or unauthorised spending, we strongly recommend not saving card details to the account. By doing so, you can ensure that your child does not spend money without your knowledge or permission. Fortnite has voice and text chat features that allow players to communicate, but they can also be a source of negative interactions. If young players are using chat, ensure they understand never to share personal information and report any concerns. Scammers may attempt to lure players with free V-Bucks, skins, or other in-game items. Always use official platforms for purchases and never click on suspicious links. Encourage players to be wary of messages from people asking for personal information or login details. Have open discussions with children and young people about the topics associated with online use - bullying, grooming, sexual and criminal exploitation, body image, as well as accessing support and how to report. 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. |
