Graphic depictions of violence are only one aspect of MMOs that may concern parents, while others may be far more worried about language and predatory adults with too much time on their hands. What you will find below is a list of current MMOs that are kid-friendly. In all cases, these games were built for kids and will offer as safe a gaming environment as you can hope to have on the Internet. Nothing is perfect and no system is fool-proof, so active parental monitoring is always a good thing. Games appear in order of popularity.

Poptropica

The most popular MMO with kids is Poptropica. Best of all, its free, though you can buy your child credits for the purchasing of special items. Kids can create their own character, known as a Poptropican, and travel across islands. Players will use problem-solving skills as they uncover various mysteries, explore new areas, acquire digital comic books, watch movies and even compete in head-to-head competitions with other kids.

Visit Poptropica Website

Webkinz

For kids between the ages of 6-13+, Webkinz is a commercial venture that ties into an existing toy-line, so know going in that you’re dealing with a gateway drug, i.e., play the game and find your kid asking for a real-life Webkinz toy. Commercialism aside, kids really enjoy Webkinz, a virtual world where they can adopt and care for pets, take part in fun activities and even decorate their own home.

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RuneScape

RuneScape has been around for what seems like forever, boasting a mammoth player base and huge game world for kids to explore. RuneScape is more like a traditional MMO, presented from a top-down perspective. While kids under 9 may be in over their heads, older kids will find Runescape to be a great bridge to more difficult games like World of Warcraft. RuneScape is highly addictive and has a sizable adult player base.  Fortunately, you can have the chat feature of RuneScape disabled until you child turns 13 years of age.

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Club Penguin

Club Penguin is published by Disney, so you know you’re in good hands right from the start.  Kids will find a wide-range of activities in Club Penguin and parents can set chat limitation and amount of play time per day, ensuring your kid gets the old homework done.

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Moshi Monsters

Moshi Monsters is a free online game for kids, where they may adopt a monster and look after it. Kids whose parents give us their approval can become ‘users’ on our site, and can adopt a Moshi Monster. Kids care for their monster by solving puzzle games, which earn their monster virtual rewards called Rox. Kids can spend Rox on virtual items like food, furniture and other treats and toys for their monster. Over time their monster will increase in level, be able to visit new locations in Monstro City, and earn all kinds of in-game rewards for playing. Monster owners will also be able to make friends with other owners and leave messages on their pages.

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NeoPets

NeoPets is a virtual pet MMO, allowing kids to care for up to 4 animals. Gamers can buy food for their pets, toys, clothes and many other items. The world of NeoPets is choked with various games, performing quests and battling other NeoPets. Parental toggles give you full control over your child’s activity, making it a very safe environment.

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Wizard 101

Winner of the Best Family Game of 2009, Wizard 101 involves collectible cards like Magic The Gathering. There is a nifty spell and combat system that will ease children into more complicated MMOs.  Kids can earn their own player housing and parents will enjoy the many online safety features that keeps Wizard 101 a safe-haven for children.

Visit the Wizard 101 Website