My son is six, and his classmates are always asking him to play fortnite, but I feel like it’s not an appropriate game for someone so young, am I right? Or should I let him play it?

You are right to question whether Fortnite is suitable for a six-year-old. Fortnite is rated PEGI 12 (ESRB Teen in the US), indicating it is intended for children aged 12 and above due to elements of violence, even though it is cartoonish and lacks realistic blood or gore15. While some parents might allow younger children to play with supervision, it's generally recommended to follow the age guidelines set by rating boards.

Here are some points to consider:

1. Age Rating: The PEGI 12 rating suggests that the game is suitable for children aged 12 and above. This is due to the presence of moderate violence, although it is not realistic15.

2. Parental Guidance: Fortnite now carries a "Parental Guidance" label in some regions, indicating that while some content may be suitable for younger children, other parts may not be1.

3. Content and Impact: Fortnite involves action violence and open chat, which can be challenging for young children to navigate, especially those under 123.

4. Social Pressure: It's understandable that your son might feel pressure from classmates, but it's important to set boundaries and explain why certain games are not suitable for his age23.

5. Alternatives and Supervision: If you decide to allow him to play, ensure you supervise closely and consider using parental controls to limit access to certain features or content8.

Ultimately, the decision should be based on your assessment of your child's maturity and ability to understand the game's context. It might be helpful to discuss the game with your child and explain why it's not suitable for him at this age.