Epic Games introduces a new type of account, specifically made for kids who are playing online multiplayer games. This will include several restrictions to make online play a safer space for children.
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 20: Attendees walk by the Epic Games booth at the 2019 GDC Game Developers Conference on March 20, 2019 in San Francisco, California. The GDC runs through March 22. by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images
(Photo : Justin Sullivan/Getty Images) SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 20: Attendees walk by the Epic Games booth at the 2019 GDC Game Developers Conference on March 20, 2019 in San Francisco, California. The GDC runs through March 22.
Cabined Accounts for Kids
Epic Games will be offering 'Cabined Accounts' that are specifically made for kids playing online multiplayer games. The Verge reported that this will have restrictions to some of the features until a parent or guardian gives their approval. This provides a tailored experience that is both safe and inclusive for younger players.
"We believe that creating a rich experience within the same overall game or product is the best way to empower younger players to meaningfully participate without compromising on safety or privacy," as stated by Epic Games in its press release.
This will start rolling out in Fortnite, Rocket League, and Fall Guys today. Some of the features that will be disabled are text and voice chats, purchasing items with money, and title downloads from developers outside Epic.
Procedure of Cabined Accounts
All players will be asked to provide their date of birth during log in to activate Cabined Accounts. Once Epic detects that the player is under 13 years old or below the age of digital consent for their country, it will automatically become a Cabined Account.
As per PC Gamer, the player will be asked to provide a parent or guardian's email address to begin the process of parental consent. While waiting for this, a certain player can still access and play the games Fortnite, Rocket League, and Fall Guys with full access, based on their previously purchased or earned content in the game.
The email indicates information of the child's Epic account, where parents and guardians can review information about the privacy practices of Epic Games. The consent for additional features like Parental Controls will also be included in the email where they will be asked to verify that they are an adult via SuperAwesome's Kids Web Services.
Once the consent is approved, Cabined Accounts will be disabling the mentioned features above.
"The Lego Group and Epic Games will combine their extensive experience to ensure that this next iteration of the internet is designed from the outset with the wellbeing of kids in mind," the press release stated. Chief Executive Officer Tim Sweeney was also excited during the announcement to build a space in the metaverse for kids and families.
