Is Call of Duty 18+?
The world of gaming is filled with mature content, and nowhere is this more evident than in the Call of Duty series. With its long history of depicting graphic violence, strong language, and other mature themes, the series has earned a notorious reputation for being suitable for players aged 18 and older. But is that the case for all games within the series? And what about the latest instalment, Call of Duty Warzone? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the mature content in Call of Duty and explore whether the game is indeed 18+.
The Original Reason for the 18+ Rating
The earliest reason for the 18+ rating in Call of Duty was the graphic content within the game. This was not unique to Call of Duty, as many war games and first-person shooter series featured graphic violence. The game’s depiction of violence, gore, and bloody scenes led to many games within the series earning the 18+ rating from the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB). Additionally, the game’s content was deemed too intense and mature for younger audiences, leading to the adoption of the 18+ rating.
The Addition of Strong Language
Not long after the introduction of graphic violence, strong language also became a staple within the Call of Duty series. The use of excessive swearing, profanity, and other mature language had many parents and guardians seeking age restrictions on the games. This further solidified the 18+ rating as the norm for most games within the series. For many, the mature themes and language made Call of Duty a game designed specifically for adults.
But What About Call of Duty Warzone?
Released in 2020, Call of Duty Warzone is the latest entry in the Call of Duty franchise. With its promise of fast-paced action, online multiplayer, and accessible gameplay, Warzone initially drew attention for its relaxed take on the traditional Call of Duty experience. And to many, the thought of a more accessible Warzone meant a more PG-rated experience. However, beneath the surface, many parents and guardians still view the game as 18+, citing concerns over maturity level and the potential harm the game could cause their younger children.
Other Maturity Concerns in Warzone
While not entirely new to the franchise, Warzone’s modern multiplayer experience and online content continue to raise concerns for younger players. The sheer availability of online content means there is always a potential risk of exposure to maturity- level content, further emphasizing the 18+ rating. Additionally, as part of the Call of Duty franchise, Warzone often includes nods to graphic content in marketing, with certain advertising campaigns and promotional videos still featuring mature themes and violent imagery.
Some Concessions for Family Friendly Play
While mature themes and content remain within the game, there is also a growing trend toward inclusion of family-friendly gameplay features. Warzone does, in fact, have parental controls, allowing you to block certain features, modes, or even set spending limits for in-game items and purchases. Additionally, with the option to restrict explicit language and content filtering in-game, parents or guardians can create a relatively cleaner experience for younger gamers. However, these steps don’t entirely eliminate maturity content in-game; children aged under 18 should always remain under close supervision or set to restricted profiles whenever gaming.
Conclusion and Further Considerations
Whether the Call of Duty 18+ rating is outdated in today’s gaming world or still necessary, concerns regarding maturity content remain widespread among parents and guardians. When considering whether Call of Duty Warzone is appropriate for your child, examine these factors:
- Strong language and graphic violence.
- Mature online content and multiplayer experiences.
- Potential exposure to unwanted content through online channels.
If you’re seeking an alternative to Warzone due to maturity concerns, research games with more family-friendly approaches, such as first-person shooters designed specifically for a younger audience. Meanwhile, for those who prioritize immersive gaming experiences, maturity is an inherent aspect within Call of Duty. Just as with any game that might not be suitable for the majority of children, maintain awareness of your child’s exposure to these themes to provide a healthy gaming experience.