Is NieR: Automata Appropriate for Kids? A Parent’s Guide
No, NieR: Automata is generally not considered appropriate for kids. The game carries a Mature (M) rating from the ESRB for a reason: it features significant violence, including blood and gore, suggestive themes, and strong language. While its philosophical depth and captivating narrative are undeniable, the content is geared towards a more mature audience capable of processing complex themes of existentialism, war, and morality.
Understanding the Content
NieR: Automata is more than just a video game; it’s an experience. However, that experience includes elements that may be disturbing or inappropriate for younger players. Let’s break down the key considerations:
Violence and Gore
The game centers around a war between androids and machines, and combat is frequent and often intense. While the enemies are primarily robots, they are depicted as sentient, raising ethical questions about the violence. Moreover, some fights involve more human-like androids, and while the violence isn’t always graphically detailed, there are instances of blood splatter, characters impaled, and prone figures lying in pools of blood. The article notes that the violence is intended to present violence as something negative, but that doesn’t negate the violence itself.
Mature Themes
NieR: Automata delves into complex philosophical concepts such as existentialism, the meaning of life, and the nature of consciousness. The narrative explores the horrors of war, the futility of conflict, and the emotional toll it takes on the characters. These themes can be difficult for younger audiences to grasp and may even be disturbing or overwhelming.
Language and Suggestive Content
The game contains instances of strong language, including the words “st” and “a.” While the usage is infrequent, it’s still present. There are also some suggestive themes present, particularly in the character designs and certain dialogue exchanges, which may be unsuitable for children. The relationship between 9S and 2B is a significant element of the game.
Age Advisory and Parental Guidance
The article clearly states that NieR: Automata is suitable for ages 16 and above, with parental guidance strongly recommended due to the moderate portrayal of potentially sensitive content. This advisory highlights the importance of parents being aware of the game’s content and making informed decisions based on their child’s maturity level and individual sensitivities.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not NieR: Automata is appropriate for your child depends on your individual values and your child’s maturity level. However, given the game’s Mature rating, violent content, complex themes, and occasional strong language, it is generally recommended for older teenagers and adults. Consider researching the game through gameplay videos before making any choices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about NieR: Automata to help you make an informed decision about its suitability for your child:
1. Is NieR: Automata a role-playing game?
Yes, NieR: Automata is an action role-playing game (RPG). Players control characters, level them up, acquire new skills and equipment, and progress through a story-driven narrative.
2. Why is NieR: Automata rated Mature?
The game is rated Mature (M) by the ESRB due to its violence, blood and gore, suggestive themes, and strong language.
3. Is there a lot of blood in NieR: Automata?
While the violence isn’t excessively graphic, there are instances of blood splatter and characters lying in pools of blood, particularly during combat sequences.
4. Are the enemies in NieR: Automata robots or humans?
The primary enemies are robots, but they are depicted as sentient beings. There are also fights that involve more human-like androids and animals that bleed.
5. Is there swearing in NieR: Automata?
Yes, the game contains instances of strong language, including the words “st” and “a.” There is also a text element that intentionally obscures the word “f**k” or “kill.”
6. Does NieR: Automata have romance?
Yes, romance is a significant theme in NieR: Automata. The relationship between the androids 9S and 2B is a central element of the story.
7. Do you have to play NieR: Automata multiple times to see the whole story?
Yes, to fully experience the main storyline, players need to achieve endings A through E, requiring at least three playthroughs.
8. Is NieR: Automata a horror game?
While not strictly a horror game, NieR: Automata contains elements of horror in certain sections, showcasing shifts in genre and tone throughout the game.
9. Does NieR: Automata have family sharing?
Yes, NieR: Automata has family sharing, but there are consequences. If network access is available, you can loot other players’ dead bodies for valuable items.
10. Is NieR: Automata considered anime?
NieR: Automata is based on a Japanese animated television series, which further emphasizes its potential appeal to anime fans.
11. What philosophical themes does NieR: Automata explore?
The game tackles philosophical themes such as existential despair, finding meaning in life, and the consequences of violence.
12. Why do the androids wear blindfolds?
The “blindfolds” are actually tactical visors that enhance their vision by providing on-the-fly enemy data and upgraded targeting. They have a symbolic meaning for the storytelling, as well.
13. How violent is NieR: Automata?
NieR: Automata includes depictions of violence involving androids, robots, and human-like characters. The violence can be intense at times and involves swords and guns.
14. Can you play as a boy in NieR: Automata?
Yes, you play part of the story as 9S, a male character, but not the entire game.
15. Are there any humans left in NieR: Automata?
It’s revealed that, due to events in the original Nier, humanity went extinct within a thousand years, though their souls exist in a sealed form.
Games can offer valuable learning opportunities, but it’s important to choose age-appropriate titles. The Games Learning Society (GamesLearningSociety.org) is a valuable resource for educators and parents seeking to understand the educational potential of games and to make informed decisions about their use. The depth and scope of a game such as NieR: Automata can resonate with older audiences that can comprehend and deal with more intense topics.