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What is online gaming?
Online gaming refers to any video game that allows players to connect with others over the internet. Games used to have a special label to show if they were online games but now almost all games let players connect and interact online.
What varies between games is the level of interaction:
- Information sharing: How much personal information players can share with others.
- Number of players: Whether they interact with a small group of friends or a large, global audience.
For parents, staying up-to-date on these changes can feel a bit overwhelming. This page breaks down some of the basics to help you understand what’s going on in your child’s online world—and how you can support them.
Why online gaming can benefit children
When done right, gaming offers loads of positives:
- Fun and excitement: It’s a great way for kids to relax and enjoy themselves.
- Teamwork and bonding: Many games involve working together, which teaches collaboration.
- Creativity and imagination: Some games encourage problem-solving and thinking outside the box.
- Making friends: Online games can help kids build social skills and connect with others who share their interests.
With a bit of balance and guidance, online games can actually help kids grow and learn in fun ways.
Why it’s important to get involved in children’s gameplay
Getting to grips with online gaming helps you:
- Keep things safe: Show children how to avoid oversharing personal information and steer clear of inappropriate behaviour online.
- Set healthy limits: Help children strike a balance between gaming, homework, family time, and being active.
- Teach good habits early: Use parental controls and privacy settings to make sure they’re gaming in a safe and secure way.
The more you understand online gaming, the better you can support children to enjoy it safely and make the most of the positive things it has to offer.
Online gaming: What’s new, what’s changing, and what parents need to know
Online gaming is a big part of kids’ lives these days. It’s not just about having fun—it’s also a way for them to socialise and even pick up new skills. But to keep their gaming safe and positive, it’s important to know what’s trending and be aware of any risks. Here’s a summary of things you need to know to support children’s gaming journey.
Key online gaming trends
What it is: Games like Roblox and platforms like the Metaverse enable players to create, interact, and socialise in shared virtual spaces.
For dedicated gamers, multiplayer games provide deeper social interactions, allowing players to collaborate, compete, and build communities in real time, enhancing the overall gaming experience.
Platforms like Steam and Twitch take this a step further, letting gamers share tips, stream their gameplay (known as “Let’s Play” videos), and connect with others.
Why it matters: While social gaming can strengthen friendships, it also exposes children to risks like stranger contact and in-game bullying. Understanding how children interact with others in these games and setting boundaries can help them enjoy gaming more safely.
What it is: Games like Fortnite and World of Warcraft have made Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games (MMORPGs) the most popular genre, offering immersive experiences where players interact in expansive virtual worlds with others from around the globe.
Fortnite’s rise to cultural phenomenon highlights how MMORPGs captivate players with evolving, shared experiences that keep them engaged and coming back for more.
Why it matters: These games can also expose children to risks, such as online bullying or inappropriate content, especially when they interact with strangers. It’s important to guide children on how to stay safe, set boundaries, and foster positive online behaviours while gaming.
What it is: Gamers broadcast their gameplay on platforms like Twitch or YouTube, while eSports events feature professional players competing in tournaments.
Why it matters: Watching these can be entertaining, but children may be exposed to inappropriate content or behaviour.
What it is: Popular games like Fortnite or Minecraft allow players on different devices (PC, console, or mobile) to play together.
Why it matters: It’s great for inclusivity, but parents should monitor interactions across platforms, as voice chats and messages may introduce risks.
What it is: Many games offer paid content, such as skins, power-ups, or loot boxes.
Why it matters: Microtransactions can add up quickly, and loot boxes resemble gambling, raising concerns about spending and addiction.
What it is: AR (Augmented Reality) and VR (Virtual Reality) games immerse players in interactive experiences—AR blends virtual elements with the real world, while VR transports players into fully 3D virtual environments using headsets.
Pokémon GO introduced many to Augmented Reality (AR), blending real-world exploration with virtual gameplay. Since then, new AR games have emerged, boosting its popularity. AR encourages outdoor activity and social interaction but, as seen during the Pokémon GO craze, it can lead to problems when used at inappropriate times or places.
Virtual Reality (VR), while slower to gain traction, continues to grow by offering immersive, 3D gaming experiences. As technology improves and affordable options like Google Cardboard or advanced devices like Oculus VR become available, VR is becoming more accessible to gamers.
Why it matters: These games are engaging but can cause motion sickness and limit awareness of surroundings, posing safety risks.
What it is: Cryptocurrency is a digital currency that uses encryption to regulate the creation of units and verify transactions, independent of a central bank. In gaming, it’s used for in-game purchases, offering a secure, fast, and global way for players to make payments. Popular cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum are increasingly being integrated into games.
Why it matters: Cryptocurrency is changing the way players buy in-game items, making it easier and faster to access content, especially for international audiences. For game developers, it’s a way to generate more revenue, while offering players a secure and convenient method of payment. As more games adopt cryptocurrency, it’s important for players to understand the benefits and risks, including price volatility and security concerns.
What are children doing while online gaming?
BBC Own it video showing young teen explaining his love for gaming
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Online gaming lets players connect with others worldwide, regardless of location, device, or age, creating a shared experience—often in open-world games.
This is a big part of Fortnite’s popularity. While it’s a typical shooting game, it lets players compete with 99 others to be the last one standing. Kids often play with friends, but they’re also playing with strangers.
It’s important to be aware of this and use settings on consoles and devices to help keep their children safe from unknown players.
Online games like Rocket League allow players to trade items, such as special paint colours and decorations, earned through gameplay or purchased passes. While trading isn’t always a major feature in the game itself, third-party apps often facilitate these exchanges.
Parents need to be aware that trading can lead children to connect with strangers, including adults, in search of rare items. This can also encourage kids to spend more money on in-game purchases.
By using console and device settings, parents can help keep their child’s trading experience safe and limit interactions with strangers.
A growing part of online gaming is watching videos or live streams of other players, often by popular YouTubers or to learn about games.
It’s important to watch these videos together to ensure your child is viewing appropriate content. Some videos may include inappropriate material, such as challenges or bad language, even if it’s edited into the content.
When children play online games, they’ll usually need to set up an account. Parents should handle this to control privacy settings and ensure everything’s set up safely. Adding a parent email to the account also helps keep track of any online messages or notifications.
How popular is gaming?
As of 2024, there are an estimated 1.1 billion online gamers worldwide. In the UK, 38% of adults and 57% of children aged 3-15 are gamers
Gaming plays a huge role in children’s digital lives, with many spending hours online daily. Ofcom reports that 20% of children game for over three hours each day, raising concerns about screen time’s impact on health and family life.
However, gaming isn’t all negative. About two-thirds of children report feeling happy while online, often finding a sense of belonging and independence. While gaming fosters social connections, it also introduces risks like excessive screen time and exposure to online harms.
Setting boundaries, using parental controls, and having open conversations about gaming habits are a great way to balance the benefits and risks effectively.
Gaming on the go: Web browser games
Beyond traditional gaming consoles, smartphones and tablets have become go-to devices for gaming. Through web browsers and apps, young people can access a variety of games tailored to different ages and interests. Here’s a breakdown of common types of games and examples:
These simple games are played via a web browser, often free to access and requiring no additional software. While some games include social chat features, others may offer in-game purchases for extra functionality.
- Examples: Websites like CBBC, Nickelodeon, MiniClip, and Kongregate host a variety of these games.
- Audience: Typically designed for preschoolers and pre-teens.
- Risks: Be cautious of ads on less reputable sites, as they can carry malware or spyware.
RPGs allow players to create characters and immerse themselves in vast, interactive worlds.
- Examples: From simple virtual settings like Minecraft to complex universes like World of Warcraft.
- Features: Many RPGs are ongoing, rather than games with a set endpoint. Players interact via voice or text, often requiring a higher level of social engagement.
- Audience: Generally targeted at teens aged 13+, with some games offering in-game purchases. Popular examples include Fortnite and World of Warcraft.
Tips to keep online gaming healthy
Here are some excellent steps you can take as a parent to guide your child to safe and healthy online gaming.
- Get involved by finding out what type of games your child enjoys and making sure they’re appropriate for their age.
- Play games together with your child and keep the technology in shared family spaces rather than bedrooms.
- Talk to them about who they are playing with and what information they are sharing.
- Talk about what information is and isn’t appropriate to share, particularly personal details that could identify them or their location.
- Talk about the financial costs of games and agree on how children will spend their money online.
- Discuss what they would do if they were bullied online, and what the appropriate steps to take are.
- Ensure you have set up accounts yourself on regularly checked email addresses and with appropriate settings for your child’s age.
- Agree how long is appropriate to play in one session and how many sessions in a day. Then set these restrictions in parental settings with your child.
Watch to learn more about PEGI games ratings and how they can help
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Online gaming FAQ
Studies show that moderate screen time can benefit children when managed appropriately. The UK Government and the RCPCH recommend setting screen time limits tailored to each child’s needs, emphasising the importance of discussing and agreeing on boundaries together.
The UKIE trade body suggests incorporating gaming into a balanced lifestyle, with players taking 5-minute breaks every 45–60 minutes. According to Ofcom, children aged 3–15 spend 6–13 hours a week gaming, with time increasing as they get older.
To help children respect boundaries, work with them to establish limits on what games they play and when. Regularly review these limits to ensure they fit with their offline commitments, such as homework. Alongside time management, focus on the type of games they play. Opt for games that encourage positive skills like problem-solving and strategy, which can benefit their digital wellbeing and personal growth.
Children often feel pressured to play games that might not be suitable for them, simply because “everyone else” is playing, and they don’t want to feel left out.
To address this, have an open conversation about why certain games aren’t appropriate, while also listening to their perspective. This helps them understand your reasoning and feel heard.
If they encounter these games at a friend’s house, staying in control can be tricky. A good approach is to speak with the friend’s parents, explaining the boundaries you’ve set and why. This encourages mutual respect for your rules.
Finally, introduce your child to exciting, age-appropriate games that capture their interest. This not only keeps them engaged but also broadens their gaming horizons.
According to our research 86% of parents with children under 11 use at least one parental control setting, but this drops to 72% for parents of 15-16-year-olds.
Parental Controls on Consoles
Consoles come with tools to manage game access, online interactions, and playtime, often with password protection. Many also offer companion apps for real-time monitoring via your smartphone.
Mobile Devices and Apps
Smartphones and tablets let you restrict downloads, block in-app purchases, and set usage limits. These features vary by operating system, so check your device settings.
Game Privacy Settings
Most games have privacy options to keep profiles private and manage online interactions.
While these tools are useful, they’re not foolproof, so talk to your child regularly about risks and safe gaming habits.
Yes, most online games and platforms have reporting tools to flag inappropriate behaviour, such as bullying, harassment, or cheating. Here’s how you can guide your child to report issues:
- In-Game Reporting: Many games, like Fortnite or Roblox, have in-game reporting systems to flag players or content. Look for options in the game menu or player profile.
- Game Platform Tools: Consoles like Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo have built-in systems to report inappropriate behaviour or content directly through the platform.
- Third-Party Moderation: Some games, especially multiplayer ones, use third-party tools for reporting, which may provide faster responses.
- Parental Guidance: Encourage your child to tell you about any issues so you can support them in reporting and blocking users if needed.
Choosing the right games for your child depends on their age, interests, and the device they’ll be using. Whether they love dinosaurs, outer space, or sports, there’s a game out there for them. Here are some tips to help you decide if a game is suitable:
- Check Parent Reviews: See what other parents say about the game to get an idea of its content and any potential concerns.
- PEGI Rating: Always check the PEGI rating to ensure the game is age-appropriate and free from content that may not be suitable for your child.
- Try Free Games: Start with free games on sites like CBBC or Nickelodeon that don’t require downloads or extra software.
- Match Their Interests: Look for games that align with what your child enjoys offline, whether it’s sports, animals, or exploring new worlds.
- Play Together: Make gaming a family activity to stay engaged with what they’re playing and ensure it’s appropriate.
- Balance Game Types: Mix in educational games with fun ones to provide a well-rounded gaming experience.
Popular gaming slang and terms
Acronyms used in-game:
AFK – Away from keyboard
GLHF – Good luck have fun
n00b / Newbie – This is slang for a somebody with little experience or a beginner in the game
RTS – Real-time strategy
GTG – Good to go
PUG – Pick-up group (used in MMORPGs) – means a group that isn’t formed by people you know
OOC – Out of character – used when a character wants to break character
TLDR – Too long, didn’t read
IGM – name in-game
BBIAB – Be back in a bit
Beast mode – dominating the game
dl – download
Fail – Failure
FUBAR -Fouled up beyond recognition
PK – Player Kill
MOD – modified game by changing characters, introducing custom levels etc.
IRL – In real life
IDK – I don’t know
FTW – For the Win
PWN – owned / to gain ownership
IAP – in-app purchase
Gosu – someone who dominates that game (Korean term)
HF – Have fun
WOOT – used to show excitement
Types of gamers to watch out for
Campers – players who attack other players to gain an advantage
Cheaters – exploit the games bugs or errors in the code to gain an advantage in the game
Griefers – deliberately bully and harasses other players
Hackers – players who hack the game to find ways to cheat in the game
Trolls – Like Griefers these are players who incite hate in forums or in-game by targeting other people with abuse.
SMURF – This is an experienced player who pretends to be a new player to the game by creating a new account.
SCRUB – someone who does not play well or relatively new to the game (newbie)
Common acronyms and types of games
DLC – Downloadable content – additional downloadable content for a game distributed online
MMOPRG – Massive multiplayer online game – where a large number of players play together in real-time
RPG – Role-playing game (player controls an avatar in the game to play)
FTP – Free to play video games also known as free to start that have in-game purchases to access premium parts of the game
Sandbox – gives the player more freedom to roam and change the virtual world they are in (Minecraft is an example of such a game)
PvP – Player versus player – this is a type of gameplay in a multiplayer game
NPC – Non-player character – this is any game where you are not in control of the character (they might be controlled by the computer)
Grinding – time spent doing repetitive tasks in the game to unlock a piece of the game
Lag – when a computer game is responding slower than expected
Level up – where you move to the next stage of the game
