Mind Candy, the award-winning creators of global Alternate Reality Game Perplex City, has launched Moshi Monsters, a new virtual world targeted at "little kids and big kids alike." The community opened up to the public for free on April 16th.

Players adopt a Monster from five different Monster species, keeping it happy by solving daily puzzles and interacting with them in a number of ways, such as tickling, playing games, shopping, and designing their rooms. Eventually, Mind Candy intends to allow customization options for dressing them, as well. Over time, the Monsters develop their own unique personalities depending on how well or badly they've been treated.

Users can play Moshi Monsters through their browsers without having to download any additional software. Though the game is currently free to play, a subscription feature for premium elements will launch in the future, as well as a range of undisclosed offline products.

Michael Acton Smith, CEO of Mind Candy said, "Playing games and chatting to friends are two of the most popular activities for children online. Moshi Monsters provides these experiences in a safe environment while also helping children learn through the puzzle games and educational elements".