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Is Call of Duty WWII OK for 12 Year Olds? A Parent’s Guide

The short answer is no, Call of Duty WWII is generally not considered suitable for 12-year-olds. The game is rated M for Mature by the ESRB (Entertainment Software Ratings Board) and PEGI 18+ due to its intense violence, blood and gore, strong language, and mature themes. While some parents might consider allowing their children to play based on individual maturity levels and the availability of content filters, it’s crucial to understand the specific content and potential impact before making a decision. Call of Duty WWII plunges players into the brutal realities of World War II, and its depiction of violence can be quite graphic.

Understanding the Age Rating

The age rating systems, such as ESRB and PEGI, are designed to provide guidance for parents regarding the age appropriateness of video games. These ratings are based on the content within the game and are intended to help parents make informed decisions.

ESRB Rating: M for Mature (17+)

The ESRB rating of M for Mature indicates that the game contains content that may be suitable for ages 17 and older. This can include intense violence, blood and gore, sexual content, and/or strong language.

PEGI Rating: 18+

The Pan European Game Information (PEGI) rating of 18+ signifies that the game contains content suitable only for adults. This rating often includes elements of extreme violence, explicit sexual activity, and/or the glamorization of illegal substance use.

Content Considerations in Call of Duty WWII

Several aspects of Call of Duty WWII make it unsuitable for younger audiences:

Graphic Violence: The game features realistic and intense depictions of combat, including gunfights, explosions, and close-quarters combat. Players witness enemy soldiers being killed with various weapons, often resulting in blood splatter and dismemberment.
Blood and Gore: Call of Duty WWII contains a significant amount of blood and gore, which may be disturbing for younger players. Decapitation and dismemberment are possible during gameplay, leaving bloodstains and body parts on the battlefield.
Strong Language: The game includes strong language, including swearing and offensive terms, used by both player characters and enemy soldiers.
Mature Themes: The game explores mature themes related to war, such as death, sacrifice, and the horrors of combat, which may be difficult for younger players to process.

Content Filters and Parental Controls

Call of Duty WWII offers content filters that can be used to disable blood, gore, and adult language. However, even with these filters enabled, the game still contains realistic violence and mature themes that may be unsuitable for 12-year-olds. Additionally, playing online exposes children to unfiltered communication with other players, which can include offensive language and harmful interactions.

Maturity Level and Individual Considerations

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to allow a 12-year-old to play Call of Duty WWII depends on their maturity level and individual sensibilities. Some children may be more mature and able to handle the game’s content, while others may be more sensitive and easily disturbed. Parents should carefully consider their child’s personality and emotional development before making a decision.

Talking to Your Child

If you are considering allowing your 12-year-old to play Call of Duty WWII, it is important to have an open and honest conversation with them about the game’s content. Explain the violent nature of the game and discuss the real-world implications of war. Encourage them to ask questions and express any concerns they may have.

Monitoring Gameplay

If you allow your child to play Call of Duty WWII, it is important to monitor their gameplay and be aware of the content they are exposed to. Check in with them regularly to discuss their experiences and address any issues that may arise.

Alternatives and Age-Appropriate Games

There are many age-appropriate video games available for 12-year-olds that offer engaging gameplay without the graphic violence and mature themes of Call of Duty WWII. Consider exploring options such as:

Fortnite: A popular battle royale game with a cartoonish art style and less graphic violence.
Minecraft: A sandbox game that allows players to build and explore virtual worlds.
Rocket League: A sports game that combines soccer with cars.
Super Mario Odyssey: An adventure game that features colorful graphics and family-friendly gameplay.

Remember to use resources like Common Sense Media or the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/ to find games that align with your values and your child’s developmental stage. You can also research the website GamesLearningSociety.org for additional resources on games and education.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the age rating for Call of Duty WWII?

Call of Duty WWII is rated M for Mature (17+) by the ESRB and PEGI 18+.

2. Can you turn off blood and gore in Call of Duty WWII?

Yes, Call of Duty WWII has a Content Filter in the options menu that allows you to disable blood and gore.

3. Is Call of Duty WWII appropriate for a 13-year-old?

While a 13-year-old is closer to the recommended age, parents should still carefully consider the game’s content and their child’s maturity level before allowing them to play.

4. Does Call of Duty WWII contain strong language?

Yes, Call of Duty WWII contains strong language, including swearing and offensive terms.

5. Is Call of Duty WWII scary?

The Nazi Zombies mode in Call of Duty WWII can be scary due to its horror themes and intense gameplay.

6. What are the mature themes in Call of Duty WWII?

Call of Duty WWII explores mature themes related to war, death, sacrifice, and the horrors of combat.

7. Are there any positive aspects to playing Call of Duty WWII?

Some argue that Call of Duty WWII can provide insights into historical events and promote teamwork. However, these benefits must be weighed against the potential risks of exposure to violence and mature content.

8. How can I monitor my child’s gameplay in Call of Duty WWII?

Parents can monitor their child’s gameplay by watching them play, talking to them about their experiences, and checking their online activity.

9. What are some alternatives to Call of Duty WWII for younger players?

Alternatives include Fortnite, Minecraft, Rocket League, and Super Mario Odyssey.

10. Is online play safe in Call of Duty WWII?

Online play in Call of Duty WWII can expose children to unfiltered communication with other players, which can include offensive language and harmful interactions.

11. How can I set parental controls on my gaming console?

Most gaming consoles offer parental controls that allow you to restrict access to certain games, limit online interactions, and set time limits.

12. What is the ESRB?

The ESRB (Entertainment Software Ratings Board) is a self-regulatory organization that assigns age ratings to video games based on their content.

13. What is PEGI?

The Pan European Game Information (PEGI) is a European game rating system used to provide guidance for parents regarding the age appropriateness of video games.

14. How do I know if my child is mature enough to play Call of Duty WWII?

Parents should consider their child’s personality, emotional development, and ability to understand the real-world implications of violence when assessing their maturity level.

15. Where can I find more information about age-appropriate video games?

Resources such as Common Sense Media and the Games Learning Society provide information and reviews of video games for different age groups.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to allow a 12-year-old to play Call of Duty WWII is a personal one that should be made by parents based on their individual circumstances and values. By carefully considering the game’s content and their child’s maturity level, parents can make an informed decision that is in the best interest of their child’s well-being.

Is Call of Duty ww2 ok for 12 year olds?