Parents gain control over Fortnite playtime limits
2024-10-01 00:00- Epic Games has introduced parental controls for Fortnite, allowing parents to set daily playtime limits and specific gaming windows.
- The system includes notifications for children when they have limited time left to play and a dashboard for parents to monitor usage.
- These new controls aim to help manage gaming time and address concerns about gaming addiction among youth.
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Insights
In October 2024, Epic Games introduced new parental controls for Fortnite, allowing parents to set daily time limits for their children. This feature can be accessed through the Fortnite main menu or the Epic Account Portal online. Parents can specify how long their child can play each day, select specific time windows for gameplay, and even allow children to request additional playtime as they approach their limit. The system also includes a notification feature that alerts children when they have 30 minutes left to play. Additionally, parents can monitor their child's gaming habits through a Time Reports dashboard, which provides insights into playtime and any extra time granted. These measures aim to help parents manage their children's gaming time effectively, reflecting a growing concern over gaming addiction among youth. The introduction of these controls parallels similar regulations seen in other countries, such as China, where strict limits on gaming for minors have been implemented. While these tools are designed to promote healthier gaming habits, it is anticipated that children may attempt to circumvent these restrictions, highlighting the ongoing challenge of balancing gaming enjoyment with responsible usage.
Contexts
In today's digital age, the landscape of childhood play has transformed dramatically. With over 90% of children aged two and older engaging in video games, and three-quarters of American households owning a console, gaming has become a staple of modern childhood. However, as the popularity of video games surges, so do concerns about gaming addiction, particularly with the recent classification of gaming disorder in the International Classification of Diseases. This shift has prompted a closer examination of the impact of excessive gaming on children and adolescents. Research indicates that while gaming can offer cognitive benefits, such as improved attention control and spatial reasoning, it also poses significant health risks. Children aged 8 to 17 typically spend 1.5 to 2 hours daily gaming, and those who exceed three hours may experience detrimental effects. Overuse injuries, like carpal tunnel syndrome and 'gamer's thumb,' are becoming increasingly common among young gamers. These physical ailments serve as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of prolonged gaming sessions. A recent study involving nearly 2,000 children revealed that those who played video games for three hours or more daily performed better on cognitive skills tests than their non-gaming peers. However, researchers caution that this correlation does not imply causation, as children with strong cognitive abilities may be more inclined to engage in gaming. The findings highlight the complex relationship between gaming and brain development, necessitating further investigation. As the dialogue around video game addiction continues, it is crucial for parents and caregivers to monitor gaming habits. Signs of addiction, such as poor academic performance and withdrawal symptoms when gaming is restricted, should not be overlooked. By fostering a balanced approach to gaming, families can help children enjoy the benefits of video games while mitigating the risks associated with excessive play.
