Why Does Rocket League Need Parental Permission?

The requirement for parental permission in Rocket League stems from the game’s connection to the Epic Games ecosystem and the need to comply with child online privacy laws. Essentially, if a player indicates they are under the age of 13, or their country’s age of digital consent, whichever is higher, their Epic Games account becomes what is known as a Cabined Account. These accounts have restrictions on certain features and content until a parent or guardian provides consent and completes the necessary setup process. This is to safeguard younger players and ensure their online experience is managed responsibly by a responsible adult.

The core reason for this requirement lies in the fact that Rocket League, while rated suitable for all age groups (PEGI 3/E for Everyone), is accessed through the Epic Games platform. This platform collects certain data and enables online interactions such as in-game purchases, chatting with other players, and trading items. These interactions, and the data collection they entail, require parental consent under regulations like the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) in the United States and similar legislation in other regions. This ensures that children’s information is not collected or utilized without the express permission of a responsible adult, giving parents a chance to control their child’s experience on the platform.

In short, Rocket League needs parental permission when a user registers with an age below the required threshold because it’s tied to an Epic Games account that is subject to privacy laws. This verification process ensures the game complies with these legal requirements, creating a safe and transparent environment for all players, especially the younger ones. This verification allows Epic Games to provide age-appropriate experiences and controls within the game environment.

Understanding Cabined Accounts

What is a Cabined Account?

A Cabined Account is a type of Epic Games account that is automatically created when a user indicates that their age is below the age of digital consent in their country. This means that many features are limited until a parent or guardian grants consent. Cabined Accounts cannot, for example, access chat features, trade items with other players, or make in-game purchases. The idea behind a cabined account is to prevent potential harm and ensure the safety of young players until explicit consent is granted.

Features Restricted in a Cabined Account

As mentioned earlier, a Cabined Account has significant limitations. These limitations include but are not limited to:

• Access to Chat: Chatting with other players is usually disabled to prevent exposure to potentially harmful conversations.
• Trading Items: The ability to trade items is also turned off to protect younger players from scams and exploitative practices.
• In-game Purchases: In-game purchases can not be made until parental consent is provided.
• Social Features: Some social aspects like adding new friends might be restricted.

These restrictions remain in place until a parent or guardian completes the parental consent and verification process, essentially “uncabinning” the account and providing access to the full suite of features.

The Parental Verification Process

Why does Epic Games ask for Verification?

Epic Games asks for verification as part of their commitment to compliance with global privacy laws. When a player indicates they are a child, privacy laws require a parent or guardian to provide permission for them to access an online game or service that collects personal information. This process is not unique to Epic Games but is a common practice among online platforms and services that cater to children. The verification ensures the platform is operating responsibly and protecting its younger users.

How does Epic Games Verify Age?

Epic Games has partnered with SuperAwesome, a leading parental consent and verification platform. SuperAwesome offers several methods for adults to confirm their age, including using credit cards, photo IDs or other relevant documents. This verification ensures that a real adult is providing the consent and not another minor trying to bypass the system. The specific methods available can vary based on your country. This thorough method is essential for the platform to ensure that parental consent is legitimate.

What Happens After Verification?

Once an account has been approved through the parental verification process, it is treated much like any other Epic account. This unlocks the restricted features of Rocket League, including chat, trading, and purchasing. The verified account then has access to other Epic-approved games, communication features, and the Epic Games Store. This means that while parental control is initially needed, the player’s account becomes fully functional within the platform’s rules and guidelines once approved.

Managing Parental Controls

How to Access and Change Parental Controls

Parents can modify any Parental Control settings by logging into the Epic Account Portal. Alternatively, these settings can also be accessed through the Fortnite Parental Control menu. Accessing parental settings requires a six-digit PIN. Once you input your PIN, you can then customize various settings such as in-game spending limits and chat privileges. This flexibility empowers parents to oversee their child’s online experiences effectively and to tailor the game to their specific needs.

Why is This Important?

Parental controls are crucial because they allow parents to actively manage their child’s online experience. They offer a layer of protection, allowing parents to choose what their children can access and communicate with. This helps them create a positive and safer environment for their child while they are engaging with the game, and the wider Epic ecosystem. Ultimately, it’s about providing a safe environment without hindering gameplay.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is Rocket League really OK for young kids?

Rocket League has a PEGI rating of 3, and is rated E for Everyone by Google Play. This makes it suitable for all age groups. The game itself does not feature violence or inappropriate content. However, parents should be aware that the chat features, even with parental controls, may occasionally include minor language issues. Overall, it’s a supportive environment for most children.

2. Can an 8-year-old play Rocket League?

Yes, Rocket League is generally considered appropriate for 8-year-olds and above. While the gameplay is friendly, parental supervision is recommended for younger children. This allows parents to monitor their child’s online interactions.

3. Does Rocket League have in-game chat features?

Yes, Rocket League features both text and voice chat, but these can be controlled through parental control settings. These chat features can be beneficial for communication but might also be a potential risk if not properly managed. Parental controls can be used to restrict these features, and are highly recommended for younger players.

4. Why does Rocket League ask for my age?

The age verification is done to determine if the player is below the age of digital consent. If below this threshold, their account will be a Cabined Account, which requires parental consent to access certain features and content. This system is in place to comply with privacy regulations and to provide necessary protections for young players.

5. Is Epic Games’ parent verification process secure?

Yes, Epic Games has partnered with SuperAwesome, a leading provider of parental verification services. This partnership ensures that verification is secure and adheres to the highest standards of data protection and privacy. The aim is to protect children’s personal information, therefore verification is treated with the upmost care and seriousness.

6. How do I give parental permission to Epic Games?

You can provide parental permission through the Epic Account Portal or via the Fortnite Parental Controls menu. Follow the prompts to verify your age through SuperAwesome, and to then customize various options in relation to parental control.

7. Can my child still play Rocket League if I don’t complete the verification process?

Yes, they can still play, but their account will be a Cabined Account, limiting access to certain features. Unrestricted access can be gained when parental verification is completed. This ensures your child still has some experience of playing the game, but ensures they are protected in the process.

8. Can my child trade items in Rocket League?

Trading is disabled for Cabined Accounts. Trading is allowed after successful parental verification and if the correct controls are toggled on. Both players must have Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) enabled on their Epic Games accounts for trading.

9. What is the minimum age to play Rocket League without verification?

The minimum age to play Rocket League without needing parental consent depends on the age of digital consent in your country. In the United States, this is 13 years old. If you are under that age your account will become a Cabined Account.

10. How do I turn off parental controls on Epic Games?

You can modify any Parental Control settings by logging into the Epic Account Portal or going through the Fortnite Parental Controls menu. You will need to enter your six-digit PIN to change the settings.

11. Is it mandatory to have a linked Epic Games Account?

To access and fully enjoy Rocket League, a linked Epic Games account is required. Without it, your progress and purchases are not stored on their servers. The linked account allows players to access all the features the game has to offer.

12. What happens if I do not link an Epic Games account?

Without an Epic Games account, your progress and purchases are not saved. If you unlink an account, you will lose access to any data tied to that account. This is particularly relevant for those switching between different gaming consoles.

13. Do I still need 2FA to trade in Rocket League?

Yes, Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) is required to trade with other players. Both trading players must have 2FA enabled on their Epic Games accounts. The need for 2FA adds a layer of security to prevent unauthorized trades and ensures fair gameplay.

14. Why does Epic Games need my SSN?

According to Epic Games, the Social Security Number (SSN) or equivalent number is requested in some circumstances to help confirm you are indeed an adult. This method is not always required, however it is sometimes needed as another form of age and identity verification.

15. Can a 6-year-old play Rocket League?

Yes, a 6-year-old can play Rocket League as it is rated for all age groups. However, parental supervision is strongly recommended to monitor their gameplay, chat interactions, and to control spending if they have full access. With parental control on, younger players can enjoy the game safely.