In today’s digital world, mobile phones are widely used to access daily updates and information, even by children. Teachers often send messages and homework through WhatsApp, making devices like phones, tablets, and laptops essential in education.
As a result, children become comfortable using these devices from a very young age. While using them, they are often exposed to pop-up ads for games. Out of curiosity, they tap on these ads and start playing. Over time, they get attached to these games and even share them with friends at school, who also begin to play.
One such game that has recently become popular among school-aged children is called ‘Granny’. It is a mobile horror game developed by DVloper, meant for players aged 12 and above. However, many younger children have started playing it out of curiosity.
Granny is a first-person escape game where the player is trapped in a spooky house and must find a way out within five in-game days. The challenge is avoiding a scary “Granny” character, who hears every noise. If she catches the player, the game restarts from the next day. The gameplay involves solving puzzles, unlocking doors, and moving around quietly.
The game contains scary visuals, suspenseful music, and mild violence (no blood or gore). According to some parents, “The sound effects and tense atmosphere make kids scared at night or when they’re alone.”
Parents are also concerned that it’s not just one game like ‘Granny’ — there are many games that attract children through pop-up ads and easy downloads. Some of these games include adult characters using rude or inappropriate language.
When children hear these words repeatedly, they may start using them while talking to parents or playing with friends. This can affect how the child is seen by others and may reflect badly on the family as well.
What Parents Should Do:
It’s important for parents to:
- Make sure kids are playing age-appropriate games
- Check regularly what games they are downloading or playing