Review the multiplayer options. Preteen and teen games involve more player interaction, multiplayer action, or player-generated content that kids can upload and download. But these features can be controlled by the player, so set the controls that you're comfortable with.

Watch the language. Language can get intense when kids are hyped up from the action. If you aren't comfortable with what you hear, use the parental controls that disable online play.

Be wary of contests, freebies, and cheat codes. These things can seriously jam your computers with malware and spyware.

Choose age-appropriate games. Teen games can be incredibly immersive and even addicting -- not to mention violent. So make sure that you agree on time limits, and set some rules around which games are appropriate for your kids.