LEGO Universe is a massively multiplayer online game (MMOG) that was released in October 2010 by Warner Brothers. Although the game is rated for players ages 10 and up, it also appeals to adult gamers who have grown up with LEGO. Players can play in two different worlds for free, though universal access to all features requires a $10 monthly subscription. Players download the game from the LEGO Universe website and then access the game on secure servers. The game is available in English and German.
LEGO’s popularity dates back to 1949, when interlocking plastic bricks were first produced in Denmark. Since then, the company has expanded into books, games, amusement parks, robotics, and video games. The appeal of LEGO is its simplistic block-by-block designs where kids (and adults) can build anything they want. The creation of LEGO Universe is not just an additional branch of LEGO, it is a marketing tool to further establish the LEGO brand.
About the virtual world
In LEGO Universe, players take on the role of LEGO minifigures in an ancient battle of good versus evil in an alternate universe. A maelstrom is the center of dark energy that threatens the universe. Players are divided into teams (or factions) to try to destroy the maelstrom and a beast called the Spider Queen on various worlds. Players collect battle gear on their journey to help them fight their enemies. Players also collect LEGO bricks along the way to build models on their personal property. Estates are like a base of operations where the player is safe and can allow other players access to their property.
What is good
LEGO Universe is an action-oriented game that will primarily appeal to pre-teen kids and older teens who are fascinated with futuristic worlds and fantasy. The graphics and overall game design are top notch. With LEGO and Warner Brothers partnering on this project, you wouldn’t expect anything more than rich colors, detailed visuals, and a solid platform. Parents can rest assured that there are no adult themes in the game. No drinking, smoking, drug use, sex, or offensive language. Words not found in the dictionary will not be displayed.
LEGO Universe offers an easy-to-navigate website for parents to get information about the game, registration, online safety and customer service. Players can easily connect with other players in an online community, share game plans and make friends anonymously. The LEGO brand is heavily promoted through the website and not through the game. Although tokens cannot be accumulated to purchase LEGO products, players can easily browse the entire LEGO catalog online to purchase LEGO products.
What is bad
Violence can be a problem with some parents. While there’s no blood or gore to be associated with adult video games, players are thrown into an intense battle of good versus evil that can be a bit extreme for younger gamers. Swords, knives, hammers and laser guns are used as weapons. Although the players are only made of LEGO, the characters get crushed, broken and die. The facial expressions of most of the evil characters can be quite obtuse and unsettling for younger players.
Parents may see an increase in requests for LEGO products just because the LEGO brand is associated with the game. Younger players may find the story tricky, but their familiarity with online games should make the story easier for them. Some themes may be too intense for younger players. Parents should explore the game with younger players and discuss these issues.
LEGO has traditionally been a popular children’s toy that has been successful due to its high quality and standards. LEGO has done an excellent job promoting safety online and has given parents many tools to share safety concerns or design issues with the LEGO Universe. LEGO’s online safety message is prominently displayed and explained in easy-to-understand language. A moderator has a prominent role within the game and online chat to ensure the safety of children.
Players and parents should be aware that the game is scheduled to shut down at the end of January 2012. Although the game is based on the popular LEGO bricks, the company is disappointed with the game’s online presence and has decided to shut down LEGO Universe. . Players with existing paid memberships will enjoy a month of free play in January. Refunds for any unused credit will be returned to the credit card holder effective February 1, 2012.
