Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

Where to Play

Screenwise Verdict

Dreams is that rare game that's actually more tool than toy—think Minecraft's creative mode on steroids, but with the ability to make literally anything: platformers, racing games, music videos, short films, interactive art.

The good news: no predatory monetization, genuine skill-building, and the kind of deep engagement that feels productive rather than numbing. Kids who click with it can spend hundreds of hours learning real creative skills.

The reality check: this isn't for every kid. The learning curve is real, and kids who just want to jump in and play will bounce off hard. It requires patience, creativity, and self-direction. Also, user-generated content means you can't fully control what they'll encounter while browsing the 'dreamiverse,' though Media Molecule does moderate.

If your kid is the type who watches YouTube tutorials about Blender or talks about wanting to make games someday, this is gold. If they just want to shoot things and level up, they'll be bored in twenty minutes.

Age Fit

Best for ages 10-17, particularly kids who already show interest in creating rather than just consuming. Younger kids will struggle with the complexity; older teens might find it limiting compared to professional tools, though some will appreciate the accessibility.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

82

Dreams is fundamentally a creative sandbox that encourages experimentation and sharing without competitive pressure or violence as a core mechanic. The collaborative nature and focus on creation rather than destruction models positive engagement. However, user-generated content means tone can vary wildly depending on what players choose to explore or create.

Imaginative

96

This is essentially pure imagination in digital form. Players can create games, music, animation, films, and art from scratch using intuitive tools. The 'dreamiverse' concept and ability to remix and build on others' creations makes this one of the most imaginative gaming experiences available. The IGDB rating of 89.6 suggests strong critical reception for its creative vision.

Safe

68

No in-game purchases or loot boxes, and online chat is disabled, which are strong positives. Users can interact and share creations, but the open nature of user-generated content means kids could encounter inappropriate creations despite moderation efforts. The lack of specified content rating (ESRB/PEGI) in our data is concerning. No kids mode available. The platform allows commercial use of creations, which adds complexity.

Enriching

88

Dreams teaches genuine creative skills including game design, 3D modeling, animation, music composition, and logic programming. Creations can be used commercially, making this a legitimate entry point into digital arts careers. The learning curve is real but rewarding. Players develop problem-solving, spatial reasoning, and artistic expression. However, entertainment value depends heavily on the player's creative drive.

Parent Info

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Why It Might Be Great

Teaches legitimate creative skills (game design, 3D modeling, music composition, animation) that could actually lead somewhere
Zero predatory monetization—no loot boxes, no battle passes, no microtransactions trying to drain your wallet
The ability to use creations commercially means kids are learning tools with real-world applications
Encourages deep focus and problem-solving rather than mindless button-mashing
Massive library of community creations to explore when they need a break from building

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What to Watch For

User-generated content means you can't control everything they'll encounter—moderation exists but isn't perfect
Steep learning curve means some kids will bounce off it hard if they're not willing to invest time
Requires genuine creative drive—kids expecting instant gratification will be frustrated
Can be a time sink when kids get deep into a project (which is both good and potentially problematic)

Conversation Starters

"What's the coolest thing you've made so far? Can you show me how you built it?"
"Have you found any games or experiences other people made that blew your mind?"
"If you could create any kind of game or world, what would it be?"
"Are you learning any skills that you think you might want to use when you're older?"
"What's been the most frustrating part of creating something? How did you figure it out?"

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