Is League of Legends Kid-Friendly?
League of Legends (LoL) is one of the most popular online multiplayer games in the world. With its fast-paced battles, deep strategy, and global tournaments, it’s no surprise that even kids are curious to play. But is it really suitable for them?
If you're a parent wondering whether League of Legends is appropriate for your child, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know: age ratings, safety features, pros and cons, and how to decide if your child is ready.
What Is League of Legends? (Explained Simply for Parents)
League of Legends is a team-based strategy game where two squads of five players battle to destroy each other’s base. It’s classified as a MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena) game. Players pick from a roster of over 160 champions, each with unique abilities, and work together to outsmart and outfight the opposing team.
Games last 20–40 minutes and require quick thinking, coordination, and communication. It’s exciting but also intense.
What’s the Official Age Rating for League of Legends?
Here’s what the global authorities say:
ESRB (U.S.): T for Teen (13+), due to fantasy violence, use of alcohol, and mild language.
PEGI (Europe): PEGI 12, for similar reasons.
Riot Games (the developer) requires players to be at least 13 years old, although age verification is not strongly enforced.
These ratings are based on content, not necessarily on emotional readiness, something parents should evaluate personally.
Is League of Legends Safe for Kids?
Pros of Playing League of Legends
Strategic Thinking Kids learn map awareness, team roles, and decision-making under pressure.
Teamwork Success depends on collaboration and timing.
Replayability No two matches are the same, so it keeps them engaged.
Cons Parents Should Know
Toxic Chat and Behavior The competitive environment can lead to frustration and negative interactions.
Online Strangers Most matches pair players with random teammates.
Microtransactions Real money can be spent on cosmetic skins and battle passes.
Addictive Gameplay The ranked system can create pressure and binge play sessions.
If your child is younger or new to online gaming, these cons should be taken seriously.
Are There Parental Controls in League of Legends?
While not as robust as other games, here are a few tools parents can use:
Disable Chat: You can mute all chat from strangers (and even teammates).
Block Messages or Friend Requests: Useful to prevent harassment.
No Voice Chat: Surprisingly, LoL has no built-in voice system, just text chat.
External Parental Controls: Use tools like Apple Screen Time, Family Link, or Circle to manage screen time and access.
Make sure to talk with your child about online safety before letting them dive into competitive matchmaking.
Can Younger Kids Play With Supervision?
Technically yes but it depends on your child. Many younger siblings play casually with older brothers or sisters in safer, private matches. If you or a trusted older teen co-play with them, it becomes a shared, teachable experience.
Some LoL game modes are more relaxed
ARAM (All Random All Mid): A fun, fast-paced version of the game.
Co-op vs Bots: Great for practice and low-stress matches.
Signs Your Child Might Be Ready (or Not)
Ready If They
Show emotional maturity when losing or under pressure.
Understand online safety rules (never share personal info).
Can limit screen time and follow agreements.
Not Ready If They
Struggle with frustration or anger.
Can’t disengage easily from games.
Are easily upset by negative comments or competition.
Kid-Friendly Alternatives to League of Legends
If you're unsure about LoL, try one of these more age-appropriate options
Pokémon Unite – A colorful, simplified MOBA.
Brawl Stars – Team-based action with short rounds.
Plants vs. Zombies: Battle for Neighborville – Fun, silly, and full of character.
Want more safe, creative games for your child? Check out this list of parent-approved video games on DIY.
Pair Gaming With Offline Activities
Encourage your child to balance their screen time with hands-on, educational fun. Try these activities for kids that boost creativity and learning when they're not gaming.
Should You Let Your Kid Play League of Legends?
League of Legends can offer valuable learning opportunities but only if your child is mature enough to handle the pressure and the online environment. If your child is 13+ and you set clear boundaries, monitor behavior, and talk openly about challenges, LoL can be a fun and rewarding experience.
But if your child is younger or struggles with self-regulation, you’re better off exploring gentler alternatives until they’re ready.
FAQs on What Parents Often Ask About League of Legends
Can you turn off chat?
Yes. You can mute team/opponent chat and turn off “all-chat” in settings to limit exposure to negative messages.
Is it too violent for kids?
Combat is cartoon-style with no blood or gore, but it’s fast-paced and may be intense for some younger players.
Are there kid-friendly alternatives?
Try Pokémon Unite, Brawl Stars, or Plants vs. Zombies: Battle for Neighborville for similar gameplay in a lighter style.
How much screen time is okay?
Experts recommend 1–2 hours of recreational gaming per day, with breaks and a mix of offline activities.
