As Web3 and the metaverse explode into the mainstream, creating spaces safe for all its varied visitors is a key principle needed in the burgeoning virtual reality landscape. Two titans in kid-friendly entertainment have together formed a bond to forge this very necessity. Fortnite maker Epic Games and the highly nostalgic building blocks of Lego will in tandem create spaces based throughout the metaverse with an emphasis on child-friendly gaming and content.
Announced on Lego's own blog late Wednesday, Apr. 6, the long-term partnership will see the duo setting out "to make [the metaverse] safe and fun for children and families." The space itself is thus far being touted as but a singular "digital experience," which will "give kids access to tools that will empower them to become confident creators and deliver play opportunities in a safe and positive space."
It's an interesting combination, as Lego itself isn't necessarily new to video games despite its more physical proponents. The Lego series of video games, which only recently saw the debut of the entire Star Wars: Skywalker Saga, prove to be a delight for gamers of all ages while blending already well-known IP into the guise of digital buildable blocks.
Looking at it from the outside in, the Lego Epic Games collaboration could be only one of many forthcoming combinations and partnerships that will help to grow and enhance the validity of digital spaces. Think of any ordinary or traditional playroom wherein fun of all kinds can be had through varied activities - only then take that concept and mold it into the virtual world. Even adults could find it enlightening in the right setting.
Related Article: NES 'Legend of Zelda' Fan Recreates its Map into Lego Blocks
The only downside is the horrors inherent in virtual reality and digital space, i.e. the internet writ large. Lego and Epic will have to work hard to iron out specifics behind who can enter into this kid-friendly digital world, especially given that the metaverse is built upon the principle of decentralization and anonymity. Look no further than Worlds.com to see how digital spaces like a kid-friendly entertainment section can be abused incorrectly.
Epic Games and Lego have already cemented three basic principles behind the collaboration and its forthcoming digital metaverse space:
- "Protect children's right to play by making safety and wellbeing a priority.
- Safeguard children's privacy by putting their best interests first.
- Empower children and adults with tools that give them control over their digital experience."
It does sound intriguing, but it also has the potential of being abused if not protected in the right way. But, the foundational concepts are there, and two of the biggest family-friendly entertainment businesses behind the push prove that maybe it will be a worthwhile investment for the future of digital 3D interactivity.
Little else is known about what specifically fans can expect of the collaboration, such as an official debut date or what it will look like. Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeny relays:
"The LEGO Group has captivated the imagination of children and adults through creative play for nearly a century, and we are excited to come together to build a space in the metaverse that's fun, entertaining, and made for kids and families."
With Lego onboard, children may well be in good hands when pitted in the digital metaverse space, given the company's long history in building "safe digital play experiences for children," which it lists as the UNICEF collab Digital Child Safety Policy and the Lego Life child-focused social application. Hopefully, Lego and Epic can ensure a safe and worthwhile world for children to explore their creativity virtually in the safest and wholesome environment.
