PlayMG MG review

The MG from PlayMG is a new portable Android gaming device designed for kids. For $180, you get what is essentially an Android smart phone without the phone. Though it doesn't have the high-end specs of popular phones such as the Apple iPhone 5 and Samsung Galaxy S4, the MG is a good choice kids who love playing phone games, and it lets parents keep their pricy phones in their own pockets.

Design

The MG is similar in size and form to most cell phones, so it will easily fit into a pocket. It has no special controls for gaming; the play experience is just like playing a game on any Android phone. Its 4-inch, 480x800 screen makes the MG a good size for smaller hands to use.

Kids can attach a lanyard to the top of the MG for easy portability. You can also order cases for the device to add some personal flair ($15 on the PlayMG website).

Highs

While there are many tablets designed for kids, there aren't many pocket-sized devices. The MG addresses a need that hasn't gotten much attention.

To get games for the MG, you sign up for a SpendSmart prepaid debit card, which you or your child uses to make app and in-app purchases from the device. Using the MG's Family Collaboration feature, you can track how much money is available and what it's being spent on, though you can't approve purchases ahead of time. Parents also receive a weekly e-mail with updates on their child's activities on the MG.

The MG has full access to the Google Play Store, so there are many games available, including free ones. Google Play offers several free messaging apps too, so the MG could be used for texting, something older kids and young teens will probably enjoy.  

For more gaming tips and advice, visit our guide to video games, consoles, and tech toys.

Lows

The MG's price puts it in competition with popular devices such as the Amazon Kindle Fire HD and older generations of the Apple iPod Touch, which offer more features and flexibility.

While the MG gives you the ability to track what your child is doing, it lacks other parental controls, such as the ability to restrict Web browsing.  

Bottom line

The MG is best for younger kids. My daughter is just a toddler, and she is constantly trying to pry my phone out of my hands; but teens and even tweens will probably already be clamoring for whatever is the hottest smart phone on the market, and this device won't satisfy them. Littler ones won't care too much about the branding and will enjoy playing the games that the MG can offer. For parents who don't like the idea of their kids playing with their very expensive smart phones, this is a good alternative.

—Matt Ferretti