Pixel Gun 3D is a Minecraft-looking online shooting game. It's been around since 2014 and has grown in popularity for its quick action and less violent version of games like Call of Duty and Fortnite. You can play on a smartphone, it's bright and fun, but parents should keep an eye on purchases and in-game chat.

Play involves traversing the world and shooting other players with the weapons you find. There are a range of different modes that change the rules and challenge, but they all focus on shooting. Battle Royale, Raids, Death match, Duels are as their names suggest. Imposter has you trapped in the Spaceship with other players like Among Us. Clans has you working with friends to battle other teams with Sieges and Raids.

The game has a big focus on unlocking and upgrading the 900 different weapons. This happens between games while in the lobby and, along with outfits, drive the incentives to play and earn currency or to spend real money to speed this up. There are a wide range of ways to earn and spend to progress:

• Trader's Van: Turns up every few days to offer weapons for sale for Gems or Coins.
• Sets: You can try and win sets of weapons. First try is free but then you must buy additional attempts for Gems.
• Lottery: You can try and win weapons by spending the Keys you got in the game.
• Pixel Pass: Buy to get at least one weapon and other rewards if you opt for premium.
• Store: Buy Coins, Gems and Pixel Pass Tickets to spend on weapons.
• Armory: Buy guns with the different currencies.

The result is a fast and frantic game that is constantly changing. It's a lot of fun, but there is a heavy emphasis on earning, buying or unlocking items. Young players will want the latest weapons and outfits, and those willing to spend more money will get them quicker. Still, there is considerable skill (and enjoyment) in the core game that you can access and progress without spending any real world money (just using your time and effort).