What Makes a Rated M Game?
Rated M (Mature) games are those that have been designated by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) as suitable for persons aged 17 and older. These games typically contain intense violence, blood and gore, sexual content, and/or strong language. But what specifically defines a game as "Mature" in the eyes of the ESRB? Let’s dive deeper to find out.
Content of Concern
The ESRB looks for specific content when determining a game’s rating. Some of the most notable indicators of a Mature game include:
• Violence: Graphic depictions of violence, including but not limited to: blood, gore, dismemberment, and explicit gore. Examples of violent games that received an M rating include the God of War series and the Mortal Kombat series.
• Blood and Gore: Graphic depictions of blood, gore, or the consequences of violent actions. This can include, but is not limited to: blood spatters, body parts, and detailed injuries.
• Sexual Content: Partial or explicit nudity, suggestive or sexual themes, or content that can be considered lewd or lascivious. Examples of games with Mature-rated sexual content include the Lollipop Chainsaw game and the Far Cry series.
• Strong Language: Use of explicit or derogatory language, including profanity, sexual slurs, or ethnic or racial slurs.
How the ESRB Determines Ratings
The ESRB uses a standardized process to determine game ratings. When evaluating a game, they consider the following factors:
• Gameplay: The game’s overall mechanics and tone.
• Audio: The game’s music, sound effects, and dialogue.
• Visuals: The game’s graphics, including character and environmental designs.
Using these factors, the ESRB assigns a rating based on the content’s level of impact. Here’s a breakdown of the ratings system:
| Rating | Description |
|---|---|
| E | Suitable for everyone, including children |
| E10+ | Suitable for players 10 and older, with minimal cartoon violence and mild humor |
| T | Suitable for players 13 and older, with mild violence, language, and suggestive themes |
| M | Suitable for players 17 and older, with more intense violence, blood and gore, sexual content, and strong language |
| AO | Adults Only, for players 18 and older, with graphic violence, nudity, sexual content, and strong language |
Game Examples with M-Ratings
Here are some examples of games that have received an M rating:
| Game Title | Publisher | Description |
|---|---|---|
| The Last of Us | Sony Computer Entertainment | A post-apocalyptic action-adventure game with graphic violence and blood and gore |
| Grand Theft Auto V | Rockstar Games | An open-world game with violent and graphic content, including explicit language and sexual themes |
| Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain | Konami | An action-adventure game with graphic violence and mature themes, including sexual content |
| Red Dead Redemption 2 | Rockstar Games | An open-world western game with violent and graphic content, including explicit language and sexual themes |
Conclusion
In conclusion, a game can receive an M rating from the ESRB if it contains graphic violence, blood and gore, sexual content, or strong language. The ESRB considers a range of factors when determining game ratings, including gameplay, audio, and visuals. Games with M-ratings are typically suitable for players aged 17 and older and may include mature themes and content that is not suitable for younger audiences.
By understanding what makes a game rated M, players can make informed decisions about the content they play and ensure that they are engaging with games that align with their individual tastes and preferences.