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Fortnite & Minecraft: the parent’s guide

Two of the three biggest games on Earth for kids. Here’s every setting that matters.

Topic guide·Last reviewed 2026-04-22·1 min read·by Lexeprint Inc.

Fortnite

Free-to-play on every platform. Rated 12+ by most rating boards. Primary concerns for parents:

  • Voice chat with strangers in squad modes.
  • V-Bucks scams via fake “generator” sites.
  • Battle Pass FOMO — time-limited unlocks that pressure kids to play daily.
  • Cross-play with older players unless you limit it.

Settings that matter

  • Epic Games account › Parental Controls — set PIN.
  • Voice chat: friends only, or off.
  • Text chat: nearby only, or off.
  • Purchase restrictions: require PIN for every purchase.
  • Friend requests: default to nobody (approve individually).

Minecraft

Comes in two flavors: Java (PC, more technical, free of in-app purchases once bought) and Bedrock (consoles, mobile, the Microsoft ecosystem). Both are broadly safe if you configure the multiplayer side.

Settings that matter

  • Realms are private servers you pay for — safest for friend groups.
  • Featured servers on Bedrock (Hypixel, CubeCraft, Mineplex) are generally moderated but allow public chat and friend requests — grooming has happened here.
  • Third-party Java servers vary wildly in moderation. For young kids, restrict to whitelisted servers or Realms only.
  • Xbox Family Group controls apply on Bedrock. Set “Multiplayer in Minecraft” based on age.

Roblox

See our dedicated Roblox guide.

Common scams across all three

  • “Free V-Bucks / Robux / skins” links — always a scam.
  • Fake giveaways in in-game chat.
  • Phishing Discord servers linked from in-game whispers.
  • Trade scams: show a valuable item, then swap at the last second.