Should I Let My Kid Play Assassin’s Creed? A Parent’s Guide to Navigating the Creed

The Assassin’s Creed franchise is a gaming juggernaut, renowned for its historical settings, parkour action, and compelling narratives. But, like any complex entertainment product, it raises significant questions for parents: Should I let my kid play Assassin’s Creed? The short answer is: it depends. There is no one-size-fits-all answer. This article delves into the various factors parents should consider, exploring the game’s content, age ratings, potential benefits, and potential drawbacks, to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding the Assassin’s Creed Universe

Assassin’s Creed games immerse players in meticulously recreated historical periods, from ancient Egypt to Victorian London. You take on the role of an Assassin, a member of a secret organization fighting for peace and free will against the Templars, who seek control through order. While this premise might seem appealing, the execution involves violence, stealth, and morally ambiguous choices.

The games routinely feature graphic depictions of combat, including assassinations (hence the name), sword fights, and brutal takedowns. Blood and gore can be prevalent, although some games offer options to reduce or disable these effects. Mature themes such as revenge, betrayal, and political intrigue are woven into the narrative. Some installments include suggestive content, strong language, gambling minigames, and depictions of drug use, though the emphasis on these elements varies.

Age Ratings and Their Limitations

The Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) assigns age ratings to video games based on their content. Most Assassin’s Creed games receive a “Mature” (M) rating, indicating they are suitable for ages 17 and up. This rating is primarily due to the violent content and mature themes. However, age ratings are guidelines, not mandates. They consider the content of the game, but they don’t account for the maturity level of the individual child.

Relying solely on age ratings can be misleading. Some teenagers may be mature enough to handle the content, while others might not. Conversely, a particularly mature 15-year-old might be able to engage with the game responsibly. It is crucial for parents to look beyond the rating and assess their child’s individual maturity level and sensitivity.

Potential Benefits of Playing Assassin’s Creed

Despite the concerns about mature content, Assassin’s Creed games can offer some surprising benefits.

• Historical Education: The games are renowned for their historically accurate recreations of different eras. Players can explore ancient cities, interact with historical figures, and learn about significant events. This immersive experience can spark an interest in history and encourage further learning.
• Strategic Thinking: Gameplay involves problem-solving, planning, and strategic decision-making. Players must use stealth, observation, and resource management to complete objectives.
• Cultural Awareness: The games expose players to different cultures, languages, and customs. This can promote cultural understanding and empathy.
• Improved Cognitive Skills: Some research suggests that playing video games can enhance cognitive skills such as spatial reasoning, attention, and memory.
• Hand-Eye Coordination: The fast-paced action and precise controls required by Assassin’s Creed can improve hand-eye coordination and reflexes.

Potential Drawbacks of Playing Assassin’s Creed

It’s equally important to acknowledge the potential drawbacks.

• Exposure to Violence: The graphic violence in Assassin’s Creed games can be disturbing for some children and may desensitize them to real-world violence.
• Mature Themes: The mature themes explored in the games, such as revenge, betrayal, and political corruption, can be complex and challenging for younger audiences to process.
• Addiction: Like any engaging form of entertainment, video games can be addictive. It’s essential to set time limits and encourage other activities.
• Negative Role Models: While the protagonists are often portrayed as heroes, they are also assassins who kill people. This can blur the lines between right and wrong and present a questionable moral compass.
• Distorted View of History: While the games strive for historical accuracy, they are still fictionalized accounts of events. It’s important to remind children that the games are not a substitute for historical study.

Making an Informed Decision

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to let your child play Assassin’s Creed is a personal one. Here are some steps to take to make an informed choice:

1. Research the Game: Read reviews, watch gameplay videos, and familiarize yourself with the specific content of the game.
2. Consider Your Child’s Maturity Level: Assess your child’s ability to handle mature themes and violent content. Consider their emotional maturity, sensitivity, and understanding of the difference between fantasy and reality.
3. Set Ground Rules: If you decide to allow your child to play, establish clear rules and boundaries. This includes time limits, appropriate game settings (e.g., disabling blood and gore), and open communication about the game’s content.
4. Play the Game with Your Child: This is the best way to understand the game’s content and discuss it with your child. You can point out historical inaccuracies, address moral dilemmas, and provide context for the violence.
5. Monitor Your Child’s Behavior: Pay attention to any changes in your child’s behavior, mood, or attitude that might be related to the game. Talk to them about their experiences and address any concerns.

Remember, open communication is key. Talk to your child about the game’s content, address any concerns they may have, and help them develop a healthy understanding of the game’s themes and messages. You can learn more about how games can influence learning at GamesLearningSociety.org.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Assassin’s Creed too violent for kids?

The Assassin’s Creed franchise is known for its violence, with some games featuring graphic depictions of combat, blood, and gore. Whether it’s too violent depends on your child’s maturity level and your personal comfort level. Some games allow you to reduce or disable blood effects.

At what age is Assassin’s Creed appropriate?

Most Assassin’s Creed games are rated “Mature” (M) by the ESRB, suggesting they are suitable for ages 17 and up. However, this is a guideline, not a rule. Some mature teens might be able to handle the content earlier, while others might not be ready until later.

Can you turn off blood and gore in Assassin’s Creed games?

Yes, some Assassin’s Creed games allow you to reduce or disable blood and gore effects in the settings menu. Look for options like “Animus Blood” or similar settings to adjust the level of graphic content.

What are the mature themes in Assassin’s Creed?

Beyond violence, the games explore mature themes such as revenge, betrayal, political intrigue, and morally ambiguous choices. Some installments may also include suggestive content, strong language, gambling minigames, and depictions of drug use.

Can Assassin’s Creed teach kids about history?

Yes, Assassin’s Creed can be a valuable tool for historical education. The games meticulously recreate historical periods, allowing players to explore ancient cities, interact with historical figures, and learn about significant events.

Is it okay for a 13-year-old to play Assassin’s Creed?

It depends on the specific game and the 13-year-old’s maturity level. Assess their ability to handle violent content and mature themes. If you allow them to play, set ground rules, monitor their behavior, and discuss the game’s content with them.

Are there any Assassin’s Creed games that are less violent?

While all Assassin’s Creed games contain violence, some installments are less graphic than others. Research individual games to determine their level of violence and mature content before allowing your child to play.

What is the best Assassin’s Creed game for beginners?

Assassin’s Creed 2 is often cited as the “best” game. Consider that it has a more accessible story, and engaging gameplay for newcomers to the franchise. However, it still contains mature content.

How can I monitor my child’s gaming activity?

Parental control settings are available on most gaming platforms. Additionally, talk to your child about the games they are playing, watch gameplay videos with them, and pay attention to any changes in their behavior or mood.

What are the alternatives to Assassin’s Creed for younger players?

Consider history-themed games with less violence or educational games that teach about history in a more age-appropriate way. Also, board games, historical documentaries, and reading historical fiction can be great alternatives.

Should I play Assassin’s Creed with my child?

Playing the game with your child is an excellent way to understand the game’s content, discuss it with them, and provide context. You can point out historical inaccuracies, address moral dilemmas, and help them develop a healthy understanding of the game’s themes and messages.

Can video games be addictive?

Yes, video games can be addictive, especially for children and teenagers. Set time limits, encourage other activities, and be aware of the signs of addiction, such as neglecting responsibilities, isolating themselves, and experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not playing.

How can I talk to my child about the violence in Assassin’s Creed?

Be open and honest about the game’s violent content. Explain that violence in video games is not the same as violence in the real world. Discuss the consequences of violence and encourage empathy and understanding.

What are the benefits of playing video games?

Video games can offer several benefits, including improved cognitive skills, strategic thinking, problem-solving abilities, hand-eye coordination, and cultural awareness. Some games can also be educational and promote learning.

Where can I find more information about the impact of video games on learning?

You can find more information about how games can influence learning at Games Learning Society.