Poptropica is an educational game for kids that was launched in September 2011 by the Family Education Network. Poptropica is aimed at children from age 6 to 15 and exists in an educational format where children play games, travel and communicate with each other only at a safe level. Though the game’s format remains the same, there is a new game (called an island) that changes every so often. Players are given advanced notice when an island will end and a new one is created.
Before 2010, membership fees did not exist. Memberships begin at $3.95 US per month for one month; $10.95 US for six months; and $19.95 US for an annual membership. Prices vary according to what country a player is from – simply click on the corresponding country and the price for that country will automatically be displayed. Paid members get free access to items in the Poptropica store (but do not own them). They also get early access to new islands. There is a free membership for children; however, their movement within the virtual world is limited. Players can also gain access to special costumes for their avatar and gain exclusive abilities by purchasing Poptropica credits. These credits can also be obtained by completing online games. Poptropica requires a broadband internet connection, at least 512MB of RAM and the installation of Adobe Flash Player. The game is played through Poptropica’s website.
Features
To begin play, new members create and customize an avatar to use as their virtual personality. The characteristics can be changed as the game is played. Avatar names can also be chosen but they are limited to filtered choices to keep them clean. Players begin to interact with one another through pre-scripted chat in multi-player rooms. Chat is safe-mode, meaning players cannot input their own chat – it must be chosen from words already created. Players acquire items for their avatar by visiting the Poptropica store. Most of these items are visual (costumes) but others are special powers (allowing the avatar to become smaller). Once an avatar successfully completes a game, they are awarded a special medal that can be used in the Poptropica store.
The main focus of Poptropica is the avatar’s travels through the islands that are released throughout the year. These are mini-adventures which follow a plot that usually involves players solving puzzles, riddles or clues from past historical events that are educational in some manner. Some of the plots may be too complex for younger players, but since there have been a myriad of islands created, there is no shortage of content from which to choose from. In July 2011, Poptropica made all older islands available to players to play again. There are now over 20 islands to choose from.
What’s Good
Poptropica is an educational website that will appeal mainly to children from age 7 to 15. The wide range of appeal is mainly due to two factors: the absence of graphic violence and non-safe chat; and the educational component and above-average plots of each island. Creating an educational MMORPG that is a success is a challenge because it must be able to hold the attention of older players who are more than used to adult-themed games. For Poptropica to be a success, the educational component must use humor, light-heartedness and a sophisticated but understandable plot. Poptropica has succeeded in these key areas.
The best part of Poptropica is that there is no online chat. When a virtual world says it moderates chat, they are never able to catch all the inappropriate behavior. Poptropica eliminates this sketchy area by only providing safe chat. The graphics and design of the website and the islands are excellent. The easy-going personalities of the avatars will be comfortable with all players. There are no adult themes in the games or on the website. There is no drinking, smoking, drug use, sex or offensive language. Violence is minimal to none and the scariest thing a child will encounter is a spider.
What’s Bad
Acquiring merchandise for their avatars and toys outside the game may be an issue, but the positives far outweigh this minor negative.
Online Safety
The part of all virtual worlds that get negative marks is online chat. The owners of Poptropica have wisely decided not to go down this path. The only chat available is safe, pre-scripted chat. No personal information about children is ever collected and since there is no chat, it is never shared. A parent is in control when paying and renewing a membership. The safety policy is prominently displayed and written plainly.
The Summary
Target Demography:
Poptropica has a wide age range.
Graphics: A
Age-appropriate and well-designed.
Educational Value: A+
Children learn cooperation and problem solving.
Entertainment Value: A
Excellent variety of games will keep players entertained.
Price:
$3.95 for one month; $10.95 for six months; and $19.95 for 12 months. Free membership with limited access to advanced features.
Visit Poptropica at www.poptropica.com.
The above Poptropica review was written by a responsible parent and media professional who believes that child safety on the internet must be observed as a top priority. Contact us if you would like your virtual world reviewed too.
Poptropica is definitely one of the top virtual worlds! Membership isn’t needed, as a non-member you can enjoy the site just fine, trust me! There’s another virtual world, webosaurs, you guys should review!
o my gosh love it but wish u didnt need a membership
i got poptropica membership and i compleated all the islands cant wait for sos island 2 come out lol
this game looks so fun even though i’ve been there only two days its so much fun,who ever doesnt have an account yet then MAKE ONE!bye
Poptropica is the best! I play it every day! I love Counterfeit, Wimpy Wonderland, Reality Tv, and 24 Carrot.
My name is Shiny Pear, Hyper Glove, and Red Fox. I know I made lots of characters. 
I love the Soda Pop shop. And the cheese touch game was a blast! I have lots of fun on Poptropica. I completed lots and lots of islands. 
dinosaur is the best