• Play games online with friends.Video Game Gear image by Alhazm Salemi from Fotolia.com
  
  Playing video games with friends is a lot of fun. These days, players can play games in different houses, states and even countries using the internet. Many video games aren't appropriate for children, but luckily there are fun, online multiplayer games that your kids can play for free.
  
  

Fusion Fall

• "Fusion Fall" is a game based on Cartoon Network characters, where players try to stop Fuse from taking over the world. After you create your character, you are sent on your first mission into the future. Here you finish a tutorial before choosing to continue as Mojo Jojo, Eddy, Dexter or Ben Tennyson. Choose wisely, as each character gives you different missions and equipment. This is a role playing game, meaning you will have win experience points. Experience points can be used to improve your character's abilities. You can also collect 36 "Nanos" which are small Cartoon Network characters that help you during battle. Players can join their friends on missions and help each other defeat tough enemies. They can also chat and enjoy each other's company. The game is free to play.
  
  

Disney Toontown Online

• "Disney Toontown Online" is Disney's attempt to create a multiplayer game for younger children. Children will interact with their favorite Disney characters after creating their own animal toon. Toontown has been invaded by the humorless robot Cogs and you and your friends must defeat them using jokes. These jokes include cream pies, seltzer bottles, rubber chickens and other hilarious options. This emphasis on non-violence makes it perfect for younger children. The game world is 3D, meaning that players can explore a wide area. Control is simple; use the arrow keys on the keyboard to move and the mouse to do anything else. Some actions are initiated automatically, such as opening doors. General chatting is done by "SpeedChat" which is a simple collection of set messages. However, players can also chat with their friends by entering a shared password. Basic game play is free, but players must pay a $9.95 subscription fee to get access to all of the game's features.
  
  

Wizard101

• "Wizard101" is a fantasy magic game that trains young players in the art of computerized magic. You are a young wizard trying to save the school from Malistaire Drake. The story is pretty close to Harry Potter, so it should appeal to many children. Players can interact with friends, go on quests, increase levels, play mini-games and even fight against friends. Combat is decided by using card decks, meaning that "fighting" in this game is not violent. They must play their cards quickly, to avoid players starting a battle and then leaving the computer. The colorful graphics can be viewed by an automatically moving camera. Players can also play "mini-games" to help regain their health and magic. Basic game play is free but players must pay to open new areas. They can pay as they play, meaning they can purchase individual areas and weapons without subscribing. They can also subscribe at $9.95 a month, $49.95 for six months or $60.00 a year.