By now, we've all read about, heard about or even simply played Fortnite, or so it would seem. And as the video game continues to surge in popularity, there are stories going around left, right and centre about its purported negative aspects.
Primary schools across the country are now heeding these warnings, as they tell parents that their children's education is being damaged by the violent computer game.
Teachers are so worried that ministers may be forced to take urgent steps to prevent youngsters ignoring age restrictions, according to MailOnline.
Advert
Just days ago, a nine-year-old girl was admitted into rehab after playing Fortnite for so long that she wet herself.
And now teachers are saying that pupils younger than Fortnite's age rating of 12 years old are becoming obsessed with the game and it's having an impact on their concentration in school.
According to MailOnline, parents have told of how children of a placid demeanour have become more aggressive, developing an obsession with guns and killing, after playing the game.
The newspaper that schools across the country were pleading with parents to stop children spending their days glued to the game.
Advert
One headteacher, Jemma Garside, who runs a primary school in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, sent an email to parents where she wrote: "Unfortunately discussions around this game are being brought ... into the classroom which is distracting children from their learning."
And another school in Bristol said pupils as young as seven were playing. A post on the school's website said: "We've heard some of our children, including in Year 3, are playing a game online called Fortnite... if your child is playing this game talk to them and make sure you know what they are doing."
This all comes as MPs consider the introduction of laws which could see companies fined for failing to police age restrictions.
Advert
Last night, Culture Secretary Matt Hancock's Parliamentary Private Secretary, Nigel Huddleston, said he was 'horrified' to hear stories of children becoming addicted to the game.
He admitted that friends of his 12-year-old son spoke of 'nothing else', although his own child does not play.
He said: "The Government is going to be making it increasingly difficult for children to see inappropriate content."
Recent cases highlighted the game's 'addictive nature' and 'the extent to which it quickly impacts behaviour', he added.
During a game of Fortnite, players battle to survive on an island against strangers online - fighting and killing each other until only one person is left
Advert
It was given an age rating of 12 for 'frequent scenes of mild violence'. Though the game is combat-focused, no blood is displayed on screen.
This news isn't brand new either, because back in March one mum warned people about the dangers of the game, claiming it 'changed' her 10-year-old son.
The woman described how Fornite had made her son less sociable, saying he would ignore family time. She also addressed her fears that normal life would seem boring in comparison.
Almost a year on from Fortnite's first arrival, it looks like action may now be taken against the hugely successful game.
Featured Image Credit: PATopics: GAMING, UK News, News, schools, Parents