When it comes to video games and parenting I’m a little torn. I was a gamer myself when I was little so I can completely understand the appeal of playing video games. On the other hand, I worry that letting my five year old play too much probably isn’t a good thing. He does well at school and we have him in sports so I figure screen time in moderation (a term I’ll admit is sometimes used loosely) won’t cause any harm. In fact, there are actually many positives that go along with gaming including better problem solving skills, learning teamwork and using creativity.
My husband and I also aren’t very conservative on game choices. We don’t restrict the kids to Sesame Street games and although you won’t see them playing any violent or 1st person shooting games, we will occasionally let them play games outside their recommended rating. For example, Transformers Prime: The Game has an ESRB rating of 10+ but we let him play it. The ESRP has a website that can help you make informed decisions on what’s appropriate for your family’s regulations.
This is the Rating summary from ESRP.org for Transformers Prime: The Game: “This is an action game in which players assume the role of robot-like aliens (Autobots) from the Transformers franchise. As players explore urban and terrestrial environments (in robot/vehicle form), they use lasers, energy swords, and rockets to dispatch enemy robots. When in robot form, players’ character can also punch and kick robots in closer hand-to-hand combat. Skirmishes are accompanied by battle cries, gunfire/crashing sounds, and colorful sparks; enemies fall to the ground and disappear amid small explosions.”
No blood and guts here. Boys will be boys whether they play these types of games or not in my opinion. Yes, my son will probably use some of these moves on his sisters and yes, we’ll talk to him about appropriate behavior. His DS will be the first thing taken away if he can’t follow the rules. But I for one, can’t help but smile when I see him dressed in one of his Transformers costumes and a look of concentration on his face as he maneuvers his way through the game.
Here’s a little more about Transformers Prime: The Game:
Help Optimus Prime and the Autobots keep the planet safe from the Decepticons in Transformers Prime: The Game. Megatron has returned with a secret new weapon and will need all the help he can get to stop his plan to destroy the earth. Play as your favorite Autobots characters including Bumblebee and Bulkhead as you explore unique vistas on your quest to save the human race. You might find this game is “more than meets the eye”. Rated E 10+, Transformers Prime: The Game is available in Wii, 3Ds and DS formats and ranges in price from $25-$40 depending on your video game console. This new game is sure to be a hit this holiday season.
A complimentary product/service was provided for this review, however, all opinions expressed are my own. I was not compensated in any other way. See Mommies With Cents disclosure policy for more details.