Is LEGO Fortnite ok for 7 year olds?

LEGO Fortnite is generally considered to be age-appropriate for 7-year-olds, but there are a few important considerations to keep in mind regarding its content and the general nature of the Fortnite franchise.

Why LEGO Fortnite is OK for 7-Year-Olds:

1. LEGO’s Kid-Friendly Nature:

   • LEGO sets are designed to be child-friendly, with a focus on creativity, problem-solving, and building. LEGO has a long-standing reputation for creating toys that are safe and engaging for children of various age groups.
   • The LEGO Fortnite sets follow this tradition and maintain the same level of safety and quality control that LEGO is known for, with no small parts that could be a choking hazard for young children.

2. Less Violent and More Creative:

   • Unlike the Fortnite video game, which is known for its battle royale mechanics and combat-focused gameplay, LEGO Fortnite takes a more family-friendly, creative approach. The emphasis is on building structures, setting up scenes, and constructing action-filled environments using LEGO bricks.
   • Although the Fortnite video game includes guns and combat, LEGO Fortnite takes a step back from these violent elements, offering more a building experience rather than fighting and shooting. The focus is more on constructing and displaying.

3. Building and Imagination:

   • LEGO sets encourage children to use their imagination and develop fine motor skills through building. The LEGO Fortnite sets allow kids to engage with some of the familiar aspects of the Fortnite world (like characters, buildings, and battle scenarios) while still focusing on constructing and creating rather than the violent aspects of the game.
   • For a 7-year-old, these sets offer a chance to engage with Fortnite in a creative way without the exposure to violence or mature content.

Potential Concerns:

1. Familiarity with Fortnite:

   • While the LEGO version is safe, children may have seen the Fortnite video game played by older siblings, friends, or online influencers. The game's violence and mature content (such as shooting and fighting) might be something to consider when introducing the LEGO sets.
   • If your child is familiar with the Fortnite game, they may have already been exposed to the competitive nature and fighting elements, but the LEGO sets themselves are very much family-friendly.

2. Violence in the Game:

   • Although LEGO Fortnite is not violent, it’s important to note that it is based on a game that centers around combat. The video game version has gunplay, building during fights, and elimination of opponents. While the LEGO sets avoid these themes, the branding and association with Fortnite could still potentially make the game’s violent themes present in your child’s mind.
   • If your child is very young or sensitive to violent content, it might be helpful to talk with them about the difference between the video game and the LEGO set.

How to Ensure a Positive Experience:

1. Supervised Play:

   • Supervise or participate in playtime with the LEGO Fortnite sets. This can help you ensure the experience remains positive and age-appropriate while also giving you a chance to address any questions or concerns your child may have.

2. Discuss the Difference Between LEGO and Video Game:

   • If your child is familiar with Fortnite as a video game, you may want to talk about the differences between the LEGO set and the actual Fortnite video game, explaining that the LEGO set is more about building and creativity than fighting.

3. Set Limits on Fortnite Gaming:

   • If your child is interested in playing the Fortnite video game, consider setting limits on gameplay. The game has a PEGI 12 rating, meaning it's generally intended for players ages 12 and up due to violence and competitive elements.

Conclusion:

LEGO Fortnite is appropriate for 7-year-olds, as it focuses on creativity, building, and imagination rather than violence. The LEGO version is a great way for younger children to engage with the Fortnite universe in a safe, family-friendly manner. However, if your child is familiar with the video game, it's important to be mindful of the violent content and have discussions about what’s appropriate.