Should a 12 Year Old Play Call of Duty: Black Ops 3?
With the increasing popularity of First-Person Shooter (FPS) games, parents often find themselves wondering whether these games are suitable for their children. Call of Duty: Black Ops 3 is one such game that has raised concerns among parents about its suitability for kids. In this article, we will explore the arguments for and against allowing a 12-year-old to play Call of Duty: Black Ops 3.
The Game’s Rating
Before we dive into the merits of the game, let’s take a look at its rating. Call of Duty: Black Ops 3 is rated M (Mature) by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), which suggests that the game is designed for players aged 17 and above. This is due to the game’s graphic violence, strong language, and mature themes, which may not be suitable for younger players.
Arguments For and Against the Game
Arguments Against the Game:
• Graphic Violence: Black Ops 3 features high levels of graphic violence, including blood, gore, and intense action sequences that may be disturbing for a 12-year-old player.
• Strong Language: The game contains frequent use of strong language and profanity, which is not suitable for young ears.
• Mature Themes: The game features mature themes, including strong sexual innuendoes, drug use, and other mature content that is not suitable for children.
Arguments For the Game:
• Creative Freedom: Black Ops 3 offers a high degree of creative freedom, allowing players to customize their playstyle and create their own unique experiences.
• Improved Storyline: The game’s storyline is seen as an improvement over its predecessors, with a focus on character development and nuanced storytelling.
• Good for Developing Problem-Solving Skills: The game challenges players to think critically and develop problem-solving skills as they navigate through levels.
Setting Boundaries and Monitoring
While some of the game’s content may not be suitable for young players, it’s possible to set boundaries and monitor your child’s playstyle to ensure they are comfortable with the game’s mature themes. Here are a few tips:
• Set a Curfew: Establish a curfew that limits the amount of time your child can spend playing the game.
• Monitor Their Progress: Pay attention to your child’s progress and adjust their play experience accordingly.
• Parental Controls: Use built-in parental controls to filter out mature content and regulate the game’s settings.
• Open Communication: Encourage open communication about the game and its contents, and be prepared to have conversations about any disturbing or mature themes that your child may encounter.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Call of Duty: Black Ops 3 has its share of mature content, it’s not all bad. With proper settings and monitoring, it can be a fun and educational experience for 12-year-olds. However, we must also acknowledge the ESRB’s rating, which suggests that the game is designed for players aged 17 and above. Therefore, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons and make an informed decision about whether the game is suitable for your child.