Runescape

AAAHHH the wonderful world of online gaming and MMORPG's. I almost divorced my husband over these games. Have you ever seen the South Park episode about online gaming? Find it and watch it before you decide...it was so right on the moneyh I laughed so hard. It totally reminded me of my hubby...slightly exaggerated, but really similar none-the-less. I've played Runescape, as well as other online games and Runescape is more of a social networking game than a violent one. For a MMORPG this one is a really good one for kids as their behavior throughout the game is monitored and reports are taken seriously. If you choose to let him play it would be best if you had him play near you so you can read what is happening just in case you need to report an action, however he will most likely only be playing with his friends from school, but may meet other players along the way. Social interraction between tweens and teens seems to be moving towards type only. It's easier to be yourself and say what they would not otherwise say in person. Also be sure to limit play time. Getting on the game for 15 min is not at all worth it so only allow it when he has a while, but limit the hours. My husband will sit down and play MMORPG for an entire day if I allow it.

My 12 year old son was spending a lot of time on Runscape which caused a lot of suspicion. After asking him loads of questions and watching him play, I learned this game actually teaches one how to live in the real world. First off, I must tell you the program managers do not allow swear words, negative talking or threats, actions as such will cause immediate suspension of their access to the game. My child stopped playing this for a few years due to other activities but has just recently started again. He is now 15. His PC is in our family room and I watch play from where I am sitting and constantly ask him questions because we find it facinating. It has taught him how to manage money by having a bank account. He was chopping down trees to sell the wood for money and to begin to build his own house. He had to go fishing to have something to eat and had to learn how to build a fire to cook his fish. It even teaches the child how not to burn his fish to enjoy a good tasting meal. I could go on and on but I believe you would gain more by asking your child for the interesting specifics. I know you have to pass each level to advance or better said you have to learn at your speed before you can advance to the next level. I hope this helped and just know your child is playing a positive mind challenging game. Happy Mother's Day to you! :9

J.,

I think I would try to discourage Runescape. The violent gaming that can go one is not a good thing for any child or young adult. What does you husband think? I just believe that sight such as these and My Space or Face Book can lead to problems. But that is just my personal opinion.
My son is 17 and does not get involved with these on-line activities. He would rather get together with some one and play basketball, work out at the gym or play a little play station.
I asked him one day why he has never had any interest in on-line gaming or My Space/Face Book. He said, First of all if I want to talk to someone I will call their cell phone and talk to them. I don't need to waste my time reading what they have to say. When I can listen and respond quickly and be done. As for on-line gaming you don't know who you are playing with and there is no one really to talk to while you are playing. It's kind of boring.
One policy our family has is no computer with on-line capabilities in our sons bedroom and we have stood by that.

Good Luck,

Both my sons have played this game off and on for a while now. I do not have any problems with it. They monitor it well and do not tolerate bad behavior. My sons play when their friends are online and it is not bad or anything. Our computer is out in the open, so there is nothing to hide and I have never witnessed anything I object to. It is easy to get caught up in the game and all the activity, so just make sure your child has a time limit if needed. My sons are both active with friends and sports, but this is a great activity for evenings or rainy days and they can be on with their friends.