APEX LEGENDS
APEX LEGENDS
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MINIMUM AGE: 16+
WHAT IS IT? Apex Legends is a free-to-play online multiplayer battle-royale shooter where players compete in teams to be the last squad standing. Matches usually involve 60 players divided into squads, who explore a large map, collect weapons and equipment, and work together to defeat other teams. Players choose from a roster of characters called “Legends,” each with unique abilities that encourage teamwork and strategy. WHAT WE SAY? Treat with extreme caution. ✅ POSITIVE THEMES
⚠️ KEY CONCERNS 🔞 Exposure to Inappropriate Content Apex Legends is an online multiplayer game where players compete against others in real time. During matches, players may hear strong language, trash talk, or offensive behaviour from teammates or opponents through voice or text chat. 🔐 Privacy Concerns Players use usernames and linked gaming accounts (PlayStation, Xbox, PC, or EA accounts). As with any online multiplayer game, children should avoid sharing personal information such as their real name, age, location, or social media accounts while playing. 📱 Cyberbullying & Harassment Competitive gameplay can sometimes lead to toxic behaviour, including insults, blaming teammates, discrimination, or deliberately sabotaging matches (often called “griefing”). Repeated harassment or targeting players can create a hostile gaming environment. 💬 Voice Chat & Communication Apex Legends includes in-game voice chat and text communication so teammates can coordinate during matches. While this can support teamwork, it can also expose players to toxic language, harassment, or inappropriate conversations from strangers. 👤 Character Skins & Mature Themes Players can unlock or purchase character skins, cosmetic outfits, and themed items. Some designs may appear stylised, mature, or revealing, although they remain within the game’s PEGI 16 / Teen rating guidelines. 🧑💻 Online Predators & Grooming Although Apex Legends is less socially focused than some other games, players can still communicate through voice chat, messaging, or external platforms like Discord. In rare cases, individuals may attempt to build trust with younger players and encourage conversations outside the game. 📢 Moderation & Reporting Apex Legends uses reporting systems and moderation tools, but enforcement often relies on players reporting harmful behaviour. This means toxic behaviour may sometimes occur before action is taken. 💸 In-Game Purchases The game is free to play but includes optional purchases such as battle passes, character skins, and cosmetic items. While these do not affect gameplay advantage, regular releases and seasonal events may encourage players to spend money to unlock new content. 🔓 Scams & Account Theft Most scams related to Apex Legends happen outside the game, such as fake giveaways, phishing messages, or websites promising free in-game items. Sharing login details or clicking suspicious links can lead to account theft or loss of purchased items. |
🛡️SAFETY TIPS:
📲 Understand the Game Take time to learn how Apex Legends works, including its gameplay, communication features, and in-game purchases. Understanding the platform will help you guide your child and recognise potential risks. 👨👧 Use Parental Controls & Supervision Check your child’s gaming interactions and review console, PC, or platform parental controls (such as Xbox, PlayStation, or EA settings). These controls can help manage chat features, spending, and playtime. 📢 Be Aware of Age Restrictions Apex Legends is rated PEGI 16 / Teen due to violence and online interaction. However, there is no strict age verification during account creation, meaning some users may misrepresent their age online. 👥 Monitor Communication Apex Legends includes voice chat with teammates, which may expose players to strong language or toxic behaviour. Consider limiting chat to friends only where possible. 🧠 Encourage Children to Trust Their Instincts Teach your child that if something online makes them uncomfortable, they should leave the match or chat, block the player if possible, and tell a trusted adult. 🖥️ Keep Gaming in Shared Spaces Encourage children to play games in shared areas of the home, such as the living room, rather than bedrooms. This allows for more natural supervision. 💸 Talk About In-Game Spending Apex Legends includes battle passes and cosmetic purchases. Setting spending limits or requiring passwords for purchases can help prevent accidental or excessive spending. 💬 Keep Conversations Open Regularly talk with your child about online safety, bullying, scams, and strangers online. Encourage them to come to you if something happens while gaming. 🚨 Know the Warning Signs Watch for behaviour changes such as secrecy, anxiety after gaming, mood swings, or sudden spending requests, which may indicate a negative online experience. FURTHER SUPPORT: For parents/ carers If you're worried about your child or need support call NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000. If you see suspected child sexual abuse content online, report it to the police or the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF), which helps remove illegal images from the internet. If you’re worried about online sexual exploitation or abuse, you can make a report to Child Exploitation and Online Protection Command (CEOP) - a UK law enforcement team dedicated to protecting children and young people online. 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 Factsheets for further information and useful online safety tips. 
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