Minecraft
Low riskCreative sandbox with multiplayer; monitor server interactions and in-app purchases for younger players.
Ages 6–9Ages 10–12Ages 13–15Ages 16+
| Minimum age | 6 |
|---|---|
| Strangers can contact | Yes |
| Location sharing | No |
| Disappearing messages | |
| Parental visibility | Good |
Minecraft is an open-world building and survival game where players gather resources, craft tools, and construct structures in a blocky, randomly generated environment. It offers both creative (unlimited resources) and survival modes, with optional multiplayer gameplay on servers or private Realms. The game includes in-app cosmetics and add-ons available through the Minecraft Marketplace.
Parental Controls & Safety Tips:
- Microsoft Account & Family Settings: Link a Microsoft account and use Xbox Family Settings to restrict multiplayer access, content filters, and screen time limits.
- Realms & Private Servers: Use Realms Plus for controlled multiplayer with known friends (up to 10) rather than public servers, which expose children to unknown players.
- In-App Purchases: Disable or monitor Marketplace purchases (cosmetics and add-ons). These are optional but can accumulate.
- Chat & Communication: Disable chat or use safe-chat modes if using public servers. Realms servers limit chat to invited players only.
- Local Network: Ensure "Local Network" permission is only granted if your child plays on home Wi-Fi multiplayer. This is safe in a home setting.
- App Tracking: You can disable "App Tracking" consent to reduce targeted ads without losing core gameplay.
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