Is Angry Birds 2 Good for Kids? A Parent’s Guide

The question of whether Angry Birds 2 is suitable for children is complex, and the answer isn’t a simple yes or no. It depends largely on the child’s age, maturity, and your family’s values. While the game itself is rated for all ages and is free to download, several factors need consideration. Let’s break down what makes the game both appealing and potentially concerning for younger audiences.

Overall, Angry Birds 2 can be enjoyable for kids if approached with moderation and parental guidance. It offers engaging gameplay and promotes problem-solving skills, but it also includes elements that may be inappropriate for very young children or those sensitive to certain themes. This article will explore the various aspects of the game, helping parents make informed decisions.

The Appeal of Angry Birds 2

Engaging Gameplay

At its core, Angry Birds 2 is a physics-based puzzle game. Players launch birds from a slingshot at structures occupied by green pigs. It’s simple enough for young children to grasp, but offers increasing complexity and challenges as players progress. This addictive gameplay loop can be very entertaining for kids, providing a sense of accomplishment when completing levels.

STEM Concepts

The game inadvertently introduces basic STEM concepts like trajectory, force, and angles. While not overtly educational, children learn through trial and error, subtly improving their problem-solving skills and spatial reasoning. It’s a fun way for them to engage with physics in a playful environment.

Free to Play

The fact that Angry Birds 2 is free to download is a major draw for many families. This allows kids to experience the game without a financial commitment. However, it’s vital to be aware of the in-app purchases that are readily available.

Potential Concerns for Kids

In-App Purchases and Advertisements

The game features in-app purchases, offering various boosts and items for real money. This can be problematic if children don’t understand the difference between virtual and real-world currency. Additionally, advertisements are present throughout the game, which can be distracting and sometimes inappropriate for very young viewers.

Slapstick Violence

While cartoonish, the game involves a lot of slapstick violence, as birds crash into and destroy structures. While presented in a comedic manner, this violence may not be suitable for all children, especially those who are sensitive or prone to imitating what they see.

Time Sink

Like many engaging video games, Angry Birds 2 can be a time sink. Children can easily get caught up in the gameplay, which could potentially lead to excessive screen time if not monitored carefully. This should be a key consideration for parents when deciding on its appropriateness.

Parental Guidance Needed

The game itself doesn’t have an age rating, but some aspects of the franchise, like The Angry Birds Movie, have cautioned for parental guidance for children aged 5-7, due to crude humor and references not appropriate for young ones. While the game might be more toned down, it is still important to consider the potential for inappropriate material.

Making an Informed Decision

Ultimately, deciding if Angry Birds 2 is good for your child involves carefully weighing the game’s benefits against its potential drawbacks.

Here are some suggestions:

• Preview the game yourself: Play the game for a while to understand its mechanics and content.
• Set time limits: Decide on reasonable screen time and stick to it.
• Discuss in-app purchases: Explain to your children what real money means and why they can’t spend it on in-game items without your permission.
• Monitor play: Observe your child while they play and be ready to address any concerns or questions they might have.
• Communicate with your child: Ask them what they like about the game and if anything bothers them.

By being informed and proactive, you can create a positive gaming experience for your child.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 frequently asked questions about Angry Birds 2 that will help you understand more about the game and its suitability for kids:

1. What is the age restriction for playing Angry Birds 2?

While the game is rated for all ages, to access certain features or create a player account, you may need to meet the minimum age requirement as specified by the app store or platform, which in some cases may be 13 years old. However, general gameplay is not restricted based on age alone.

2. Is the Angry Birds Movie appropriate for young children?

No. The Angry Birds Movie is not recommended for children under six years old due to animated violence, crude humor, and some sexual references. Parental guidance is also advised for children aged 6-8 years.

3. Is Angry Birds 2 a safe game for kids?

Yes, the app itself is generally safe for kids. It is available for download from reputable app stores and doesn’t contain malicious content. However, the in-app purchases and advertisements require parental oversight.

4. What does the MPAA rating for The Angry Birds Movie mean?

The Angry Birds Movie is rated PG by the MPAA for rude humor and action. The frequent slapstick antics are presented in a comedic context. Other non-graphic violent depictions include explosions, law-breaking, lying, betrayal, robbery, acts of revenge, and self-defense.

5. Is the violence in Angry Birds 2 too much for young kids?

The violence in the game is cartoonish and slapstick. However, very young children or those sensitive to violence might be affected. Parents should consider their child’s individual sensitivities.

6. Why does Angry Birds 2 need access to photos?

Angry Birds 2 may request permission to access your device’s storage for downloading the game to overcome application size limitations. This is primarily for file storage and is not necessarily for accessing personal photos.

7. Is Angry Birds 2 educational?

While not primarily designed as an educational game, it can subtly help kids learn important STEM concepts, like physics principles and problem-solving skills.

8. Does Angry Birds 2 cost money?

No, Angry Birds 2 is free to download and play. However, there are optional in-app purchases available.

9. What happens if you don’t feed your hatchlings in Angry Birds 2?

If you don’t feed the hatchling, it will eventually leave to find food elsewhere. If it leaves, your hatchling boost multiplier will reset. You’ll get a new egg to start over.

10. Can you play Angry Birds 2 without an internet connection?

Yes, you can play the campaign mode offline. However, accessing features like clan battles and arena will require an internet connection.

11. Is Angry Birds 2 a virus?

There was a news story about a Chinese version of Angry Birds 2 having malware. The version available outside of China is safe.

12. Does Angry Birds 2 have bad language?

The Angry Birds Movie 2 contains some mild coarse language, such as “oh poop”, “freaking”, “total loser”, and “oh my gosh”. These terms are generally considered tame but may still be a concern for some parents. The game itself contains little or no verbal language beyond cartoon sound effects.

13. What is the age rating for the Angry Birds 2 movie?

The Angry Birds 2 movie is not suitable for children under 6 due to animated violence, crude humour and sexual references. Parental guidance is recommended for children 6-8 years old.

14. Has Angry Birds 1 been deleted?

Yes, the original Angry Birds game was delisted from app stores. It was later renamed ‘Red’s First Flight’ on some platforms.

15. Who is the strongest bird in Angry Birds 2?

In the Angry Birds series, Terence, also known as the Big Bird, is considered the most powerful in the main flock.

By carefully considering these factors, parents can make the right decision about whether Angry Birds 2 is a good fit for their children. Remember that each child is different, and what works for one family may not be suitable for another. With mindful engagement, Angry Birds 2 can be a fun and entertaining experience for kids.