Why are Mature Games 17?
The Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) is responsible for rating video games based on their content. The ESRB uses a rating system that categorizes games into different age ranges, with "M" being the highest rating for games that are suitable for players 17 and older. But why are mature games 17? What content is considered mature, and what are the implications for parents and gamers?
What does the ESRB consider mature?
The ESRB defines mature content as games that contain blood and gore, intense violence, strong language, and/or sexual content. These games are considered too mature for players under the age of 17 and are therefore labeled with an "M" rating.
Why 17 and not 18?
The ESRB chose 17 as the age limit for mature games because it is the age of majority in many jurisdictions. In the United States, for example, 17 is the age of majority in most states, meaning that individuals can make their own decisions and are considered adults in the eyes of the law. By setting the age limit at 17, the ESRB is able to ensure that games are marketed and sold to adults who can make informed decisions about the content they consume.
What are the implications for parents and gamers?
For parents, the implications of mature games being 17 are clear: they should take an active role in monitoring their children’s gaming habits and ensuring that they are not exposed to content that is inappropriate for their age. This may involve setting limits on the types of games their children can play, monitoring their online activity, and having open and honest conversations with their children about the content they are consuming.
For gamers, the implications of mature games being 17 are also significant. Gamers who are 17 or older may be more likely to encounter mature content in games, and may need to be more mindful of the types of games they play and the content they consume. Gamers who are under 17, on the other hand, may need to be more careful about the types of games they play and the content they are exposed to.
What are some examples of mature games?
Some examples of mature games include:
- The Witcher 3: This action role-playing game is known for its mature themes, including violence, blood, and gore.
- Grand Theft Auto V: This open-world game is known for its mature themes, including violence, strong language, and sexual content.
- Call of Duty: Modern Warfare: This first-person shooter is known for its mature themes, including violence and strong language.
What are some alternatives to mature games?
For parents who are concerned about the types of games their children are playing, there are many alternatives to mature games. Some examples include:
- Family-friendly games: Games like Mario Kart and Super Smash Bros. are suitable for players of all ages and are a great way to spend time with family and friends.
- RPGs with lighter themes: Games like The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild are great examples of RPGs that are suitable for players of all ages.
- Indie games: Many indie games are created with a focus on storytelling and gameplay, and may be more suitable for players of all ages.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mature games are 17 because the ESRB has defined mature content as games that contain blood and gore, intense violence, strong language, and/or sexual content. The ESRB has chosen 17 as the age limit for mature games because it is the age of majority in many jurisdictions, and because it allows adults to make informed decisions about the content they consume. For parents and gamers, the implications of mature games being 17 are clear: they should take an active role in monitoring their children’s gaming habits and ensuring that they are not exposed to content that is inappropriate for their age.
Additional Resources
- ESRB Rating System: The ESRB website provides a detailed breakdown of their rating system, including the criteria for each rating.
- Mature Game Reviews: Websites like GameSpot and IGN provide reviews of mature games, including information about the content and themes present in each game.
- Parental Guidance: Organizations like Common Sense Media provide guidance and resources for parents to help them make informed decisions about the types of games their children play.
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