Selling virtual Webkinz objects

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Jan Smith on June 17, 2008 at 3:59pm

Kelly,
I have watched the proliferation of Webkinz-type sites (Neopets, Barbie Girls, etc.) with interest. I think there are other issues besides the exchange of money, like marketing to and surveillance of children, that should also set off alarm bells. A presentation on the blog of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada is quite eye-opening. See the summary notes here.

▶ Reply to This

Permalink Reply by indigo196 on June 17, 2008 at 4:41pm

I find the study, at least from the summary, interesting,... but seriously flawed. I have no concern with these sites existing because I believe they are no more threatening than television or Dungeons and Dragons. In the past people have flipped out about television and gone balistic in response to Dungeons and Dragons.

No matter the source of the advertising kids and adults will find a way to ignore it.

▶ Reply to This

Permalink Reply by indigo196 on June 17, 2008 at 4:36pm

This type of 'economy' has been going on for quite a long time with games like Everquest, World of Warcraft and Lord of the Rings Online. It is even part of the 'game' in Second Life. There are a great many things in the 'real' world that really did not have value beyond the fact that someone wanted it (baseball cards) and that is the dynamic going on in the virtual world.

▶ Reply to This

Permalink Reply by Kelley Irish on July 1, 2008 at 7:05pm

Both excellent points of view. I guess if an adult sees a virtual object as worthy of real cash I can accept that. I am however still thinking about webkinz estore where you get an adult to purchase a virtual item. I believe $9.00 for a virtual bed.

So for now I am going to continue to monitor all computer time. I have also introduced my son to My cbbc- it allows kids to decorate a webkiz style room and all the games are subject oriented, and you don't have to buy a stuffed animal in order to get access.

▶ Reply to This