GardenParty, a virtual world targeted at kids aged 5-11, has been launched as a public beta after three months as an invitation-only product. GardenParty allows users to 'grow their own fun' by planting seeds to grow plants, as well as collecting 'orbs' – an in world currency which can be used to make purchases at the market. There are also a series of casual games, including a dancing game and a fishing game, in which success earns orbs. The developer's description:
Gardeners buy seeds, then plant and tend to them in their private garden by watering them till they are fully grown. GardenParty promotes collaboration and community, based round a stunning natural looking space. 'Gardeners' can explore, discover and take part in various activities throughout the world as well as buy and grow seeds in their own garden. Each seed may produce an exciting new toy they can play with along with the other kids in the world!
As ever with virtual worlds aimed at young children, safety is crucial. Asylum Entertainment, the developers of the game, have tested it in a school. They also implement a combination of automated filters and human moderation to try to ensure safety. In common with other similar virtual worlds, they also offer a 'very safe' option to parents with which the children can be restricted to sending and receiving restricted preset messages.
Asylum Entertainment anticipates that this public beta period will last about a month before the game is officially released.
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