Can a 11 year old play life is strange?

Can a 11 year old play Life is Strange?

The popular narrative-driven video game, Life is Strange, has sparked debates among parents and guardians on whether it is suitable for young players. At the heart of the controversy lies the mature themes, language, and events that unfold throughout the game. As we delve into the discussion, it becomes clear that the game’s rating is TV-M (Mature) for a reason. In this article, we’ll explore whether it’s appropriate for an 11-year-old child to play Life is Strange.

What kind of content does Life is Strange feature?

The game’s developer, Dontnod Entertainment, has carefully woven a narrative that tackles mature themes, such as:

• Drug use and distribution: Max, the main character, accidentally discovers her ability to rewind time while taking a mysterious substance at a party. This leads to a storyline that explores the consequences of experimenting with drugs.
• Alleged abuse and assault: The game’s story touches on graphic and disturbing themes, including sexual misconduct and physical violence.
• Mental health: Characters in the game experience anxiety, depression, and trauma, providing a realistic representation of mental health struggles.

Additionally, the game contains brief nudity and strong language that may not be suitable for young children. When considering the content, it is clear that Life is Strange is intended for an adult audience.

Why is the rating M (Mature)?

Blood and violence: While the violence is not graphic, it is still implied through sound effects and brief flashes. The game’s setting, in a small town with a mysterious disaster, often leads to aggressive and confrontational situations.

• Gambling and drinking: In-game characters engage in gambling, drinking, and smoking, promoting socially unacceptable behaviors.

Considering these aspects, it’s understandable that the game is classified as M (Mature). A rating of this level typically applies to games with themes and content more suitable for adults.

Should a 11-year-old play Life is Strange?

The verdict

Based on the game’s content and maturity level, we strongly advise that children under the age of 17 not play Life is Strange. Even for children within this age range, parent discretion is advised. Parents/Guardians, please review the game’s content before allowing a child to play.

If an 11-year-old child still wants to play the game, consider the following:

• Monitor playtime: Closely monitor the child’s playtime to ensure they are not exposed to graphic content or mature themes.
• Explain mature themes: Engage your child in discussions about the game’s mature themes, such as drug use, abuse, and mental health. Provide guidance and context to help them understand and relate to the characters’ experiences.
• Set limits: Establish time limits for playing the game and alternate with other activities, such as exercise, reading, or socializing, to ensure a balanced lifestyle.

Alternatives for younger gamers

If a child under 17 wants to play a similar game, consider the following alternatives:

• Life is Strange: Before the Storm: A younger-rated prequel that explores the relationships between characters without the mature themes present in the original game.
• What Remains of Edith Finch: A highly acclaimed, narrative-driven game without mature themes or content that promotes social acceptability.

In conclusion, while Life is Strange is an excellent narrative-driven game, its mature content, themes, and rating make it inadvisable for an 11-year-old child. As a responsible parent/guardian, it’s crucial to consider the game’s content and provide a mature and informed perspective to help your child grow and develop in a healthy manner.

Please note: The ratings mentioned throughout this article are based on the original "Life is Strange" game (2015) and may vary depending on specific platforms, updates, or sequels.