Is EarthBound Safe for Kids? A Comprehensive Guide for Parents
The question of whether EarthBound is safe for kids is a nuanced one, and the answer isn’t a simple yes or no. While the game sports a whimsical, cartoony aesthetic that may seem harmless at first glance, it also tackles mature themes and includes elements that could be considered inappropriate for younger children. Ultimately, whether EarthBound is suitable for your child depends on their age, maturity level, and your family’s specific values.
The game, rated T for Teen by the ESRB, contains “Fantasy Violence; Mild Blood; Suggestive Themes and Crude Humor.” Let’s unpack what that means. The “fantasy violence” mostly involves cartoonish attacks on enemies, and while there is some imagery that could be interpreted as blood, it’s very mild and often abstract. The “suggestive themes” are usually lighthearted and often delivered through humorous dialogue, rather than explicit visual content. “Crude humor” is present in the dialogue and actions of some characters, which might not be suitable for all younger audiences.
Therefore, while not overtly graphic or mature in the same way as many M-rated games, EarthBound requires parental discernment. It isn’t simply “for kids” despite its youthful protagonists. It’s a game that incorporates “adult elements” because children’s lives also contain such elements, but it handles them in a way that is often more thought-provoking than shocking. Let’s dive deeper into the game’s elements and what parents should consider.
Analyzing EarthBound’s Content
Violence
The violence in EarthBound is almost always presented in an abstract, cartoonish manner. Characters “smash” each other with baseball bats, use psychic powers that manifest in various animated ways, and sometimes get “defeated” with a comical animation. There are no gory scenes or realistic depictions of injury. However, the game does feature battles that, while not graphically intense, are a constant presence and can be unsettling to very young children who might not understand the fantastical nature of the conflicts. The occasional “mild blood” mentioned by the ESRB is minimal and often presented as a stylized effect.
Suggestive Themes and Humor
EarthBound features moments of suggestive humor, such as in dialogue, that might fly over the heads of younger children or not register as inappropriate. However, it’s important for parents to be aware of the content to ensure it aligns with their family values. The game is often filled with quirky and offbeat humor, some of which might be considered crude by some standards, like goofy characters and sometimes gross situations. This humor, while not overtly vulgar, could be problematic for some parents.
Emotional Complexity
Beyond the humorous tone, EarthBound also delves into surprisingly deep and complex themes. The game explores concepts such as loss, loneliness, and the dark side of nostalgia. While it does so without being overtly grim, these underlying themes could be unsettling for children who are not equipped to process them. However, this is also where EarthBound’s brilliance lies – its ability to engage with deep and challenging content without being overly traumatic.
Psychological Aspects
EarthBound is partially known for a persistent sense of impending horror and displacement. The storyline involves an alien force that threatens reality and causes strange occurrences. The game taps into a feeling of “cosmic horror,” where the threat is largely unseen or difficult to grasp, which can be disturbing to players of all ages. For some children, the underlying anxiety and strange nature of the game could be too much.
Why is EarthBound So Popular?
The game’s enduring popularity stems from several factors:
- Unique Setting: Instead of a typical medieval fantasy setting, EarthBound is set in a modern, “almost-America” with relatable kid protagonists.
- Humor and Heart: It combines a quirky sense of humor with moments of genuine emotional depth.
- Nostalgic Appeal: The game’s 90s setting taps into nostalgia for many players.
- Subversive Storytelling: EarthBound provides a subtle critique of the “American Dream,” exploring the dark secrets hidden beneath a seemingly perfect facade.
- Cult Following: Due to its limited initial sales and critical acclaim, it has grown a dedicated following over the years, contributing to its mystique and the high prices for its original cartridge.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What does the T rating for EarthBound mean?
The “T” rating from the ESRB means Teen, and suggests that the game’s content may be suitable for those 13 years of age and older. This rating considers elements like fantasy violence, mild blood, suggestive themes, and crude humor.
2. Is there real blood in EarthBound?
No, EarthBound doesn’t feature realistic blood. The “mild blood” mentioned by the ESRB is presented in a very stylized, cartoonish way, often appearing more like a splash of color than actual blood.
3. Are the “suggestive themes” in EarthBound very explicit?
No, the suggestive themes are not explicit. They are usually portrayed through lighthearted, often humorous dialogue and situations, rather than graphic content.
4. How scary is EarthBound?
EarthBound does have some moments of unsettling imagery and concepts, especially relating to its “cosmic horror” undertones. However, it is not a horror game in the conventional sense. It’s more atmospheric and psychologically disturbing than outright scary.
5. Does EarthBound have bad language?
No, the game does not contain actual swear words in the traditional sense. The game does, however, have some dialogue that can be considered “crude” or “unrefined.” The game also includes messages displayed as “Words of Love” and “Swear Words” but these don’t have any effect.
6. Is it illegal for a child to play EarthBound?
No, it is not illegal for a child to play EarthBound. Age ratings are recommendations, not laws. It is illegal to sell or rent restricted-age games to minors, but not illegal for minors to play them. The Video Recordings Act primarily regulates the sale of games to underage individuals, not their access to them.
7. Is EarthBound censored on Nintendo Switch?
Yes, EarthBound was censored when it was released on Nintendo Switch. Certain elements, such as alcohol/drug references, were removed, and some violence was toned down slightly, due to Nintendo of America’s past strict censorship policies.
8. What is the difference between EarthBound and Mother?
EarthBound is the name for the second game in the Mother series of games outside of Japan, specifically Mother 2. The Mother series consists of Mother (EarthBound Beginnings), Mother 2 (EarthBound), and Mother 3.
9. Should I play Mother 1 (EarthBound Beginnings) before EarthBound?
It’s generally recommended to play EarthBound first, then EarthBound Beginnings (Mother 1), followed by Mother 3. Playing EarthBound first will likely make you more invested in the series. EarthBound Beginnings acts as a good prequel.
10. Is EarthBound hard to play?
EarthBound is not considered overly difficult compared to other JRPGs, but it does have a wonky difficulty curve with some unexpected spikes, especially towards the end. An average playthrough takes 25-30 hours.
11. Is EarthBound a sad game?
EarthBound has its emotional moments, with themes of loss and loneliness, but it is not necessarily a “sad” game. It’s more emotionally complex, and many find it beautiful and deeply moving.
12. Why is EarthBound so expensive?
EarthBound is expensive due to limited original sales combined with its now strong cult following. Demand far outstrips the supply of original copies, causing prices to skyrocket.
13. Is EarthBound similar to Undertale?
While there are some superficial similarities in humor and a few gameplay elements, EarthBound is a completely different game from Undertale. While fans of Undertale will likely enjoy Earthbound, they should not approach it with the expectation it’s the same experience.
14. Is EarthBound a cosmic horror game?
While not a direct “Lovecraftian” horror game, EarthBound does feature elements of cosmic horror with an alien antagonist who’s magical powers destroy their physical body and mind. The underlying sense of displacement and impending doom contributes to this feeling.
15. What is the message of EarthBound?
EarthBound has a deeply meaningful story with a critique of the “American Dream” hidden underneath nostalgia. It encourages reflection on the darker aspects of what seems idyllic.
Conclusion
EarthBound is a complex and rewarding game that can be enjoyed by players of various ages, but it is not without its mature themes and elements. Parents should be aware of the game’s suggestive content, moments of crude humor, and psychological aspects, and should make a decision based on their child’s age, maturity, and their family values. While it is not inherently unsafe, careful consideration is recommended before introducing it to younger children. Ultimately, playing EarthBound can be a valuable experience, fostering critical thinking and emotional intelligence, if navigated thoughtfully.