Restrict Game Center Multiplayer in iOS 12

Apple's Screen Time tool in iOS 12 gives parents and users robust control over device functionality, including online gaming features. This guide explains how to navigate the Content & Privacy Restrictions settings in iOS 12 to disable Game Center multiplayer capabilities, preventing users from connecting with others in online matches and protecting their privacy.

Steps to Disable Multiplayer Games

  1. Open the Settings app on the iPhone or iPad running iOS 12.
  2. Tap Screen Time.
  3. If prompted, tap Turn On Screen Time, or select Use Screen Time Passcode to set a 4-digit PIN so that settings cannot be altered without permission.
  4. Tap Content & Privacy Restrictions.
  5. Enter your Screen Time passcode if required.
  6. Toggle the Content & Privacy Restrictions switch at the top to the green On position.
  7. Tap Content Restrictions.
  8. Scroll down to the Game Center section at the bottom of the menu.
  9. Tap Multiplayer Games.
  10. Select Don't Allow.

Additional Game Center Restrictions

In the same Game Center sub-menu, you can manage other interactive features for increased security:

  • Adding Friends: Set to Don't Allow to stop the user from sending or receiving Game Center friend requests.
  • Screen Recording: Set to Don't Allow to prevent the capture of video and audio during gameplay.

Once you exit the Settings app, the changes take effect immediately. Multiplayer matchmaking through Game Center will be fully disabled across all supported games on the device.