Lego Universe launches MMOG beta

WoW for nippers

The Lego company is currently developing its first massively multiplayer online game (MMOG) Lego Universe, and has opened up the blocky plastic world to beta testers.

Building on the company's massively-popular console titles based on mainstream franchises like Star Wars and Indiana Jones, the company is hoping to create the kind of immersive experience pioneered by the biggest game ever, World of Warcraft.

Aimed at younger children, the game will concentrate on building stuff with online blocks, action and adventure mini games, and social interaction.

Players will also battle against the evil Maelstrom, a bunch of scary-looking space pirates.

Let's hope its not as addictive as Warcrack, otherwise we'll have lots of bleary-eyed toddlers turning up to nursery school and crashing out in the sand pit.