In kids' avatar games, children assume a character that represents them in the game. Avatars are typically used in virtual communities, multiplayer, role-playing games and Internet forums. In some games, a child can customize his avatar to such a degree that his online persona is highly distinct. Avatar games have been tailored to certain age groups, such as young children or teenagers, and are either action-oriented vehicles or community-builders.
Young Children's Games
Designed for young girls, Pixie Hollow enables users to create fairy-like avatars and experience the enchantment of Tinker Bell's universe. Wander through meadows, meet and chat with fellow fairies, decorate your home with fairy furniture, play talent games and gather flowers. Boys can create a Sparrow Man avatar and also participate in this game, according to Disney. Club Penguin has ramped up its game with the Elite Penguin Force, which allows children to become secret agents on missions and uncover mysteries. New devices, locations and vehicles have been introduced to the game, says the Disney Club.
Pre-teen and Teen Games
A multiplayer card game, Ren offers a two-dimensional (2-D) virtual world for children age 13 to 21. Although you can customize your avatar, your persona must fall within one of three races, which include the frightening Nuvas, cryptic Yaos or sphinx-like Shens. Engage in battles to increase your power, accumulate objects and win prizes, according to Play BBG. Prepare for tournaments by playing games with online friends. Designed for 'tweens, SuperSecret is a virtual world that enables children to play games, adopt pets, purchase new clothes, go on quests and decorate their apartments. It aims to recreate an environment where 'tweens can spontaneously roam around and meet new friends online, says "Wired." In contrast to fantastical avatars, SuperSecret avatars appear realistic and engage in real-world types of activities.
Massive Multiplayer Online Games
A massive, multiplayer online game (MMOG) that can accommodate thousands of players, Gaia Online has created an extension of its game, known as zOMG!. While players can use the same avatars from Gaia's traditional forum structure, they can now engage in battles, collect rings and gain powers, such as healing faster, moving faster and even creating a sword that will do the fighting for you, according to Gaia. SocioTown is a three-dimensional (3-D) social MMOG that involves players in an intricate storyline. Users can take on jobs and missions, and earn experience points.
3-D Chat Communities
Two avatar games that provide a chance to socialize and chat in virtual communities are Habbo and sMeet. Set in an expansive hotel, Habbo's virtual environment includes clubs, parks and cafes. Players can populate chat rooms that are rich in graphics. New players begin with an empty room they can decorate with free furniture or objects bought from a catalog. sMeet provides a 3-D world where you can garden, care for a pet and collect items. If you take on the challenge of an sMeet mission and manage to open a safe, you earn points, according to game's publisher.
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