Why is Minecraft: Story Mode a 12?
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Minecraft: Story Mode, despite its association with the generally child-friendly Minecraft franchise, carries a PEGI 12 rating in Europe and other regions that use the PEGI system, a rating that often confuses parents and players. This is because the PEGI 12 designation reflects the presence of content that is considered unsuitable for younger children under the age of 12. The primary reasons for this rating are the game’s mild language, suspenseful moments, and jump scares. Unlike the original Minecraft game, which is rated E10+ in the US (equivalent to PEGI 7 in Europe), Minecraft: Story Mode delves into a more narrative-driven adventure, which introduces themes and elements that are aimed at an older audience. Although the game does not feature any significant amounts of violence or blood/gore, the intensity of certain scenarios and the use of some language are considered inappropriate for younger kids. Therefore, the PEGI 12 rating is in place to inform parents and guardians about the potential risks for younger or more sensitive players.
Understanding the Factors Behind the PEGI 12 Rating
The PEGI rating system considers various aspects when categorizing a game. For Minecraft: Story Mode, it’s not the core gameplay mechanics but rather the surrounding narrative and presentation that lead to a higher rating.
Mild Language
One of the crucial factors is the use of mild language within the game. Characters occasionally use terms such as “hell,” “crap,” “damn,” and “freaking.” Though these might be considered relatively mild by adult standards, these words are deemed inappropriate for children and form a significant part of why the game is rated 12. There is even an instance where a player curses chickens with the word “damn.” The inclusion of this language sets it apart from the original Minecraft game, which avoids such content. While the language isn’t pervasive, it occurs frequently enough to warrant this specific age classification by PEGI.
Suspenseful Moments and Jump Scares
Beyond language, Minecraft: Story Mode incorporates suspenseful moments and jump scares, which could unsettle younger or more sensitive players. The game is designed to create tension and dramatic moments through these methods. These elements, while not inherently violent, can be particularly frightening or anxiety-inducing for younger children, particularly those who might be more prone to overstimulation or fear. The unexpected nature of jump scares coupled with moments of high suspense contribute to the higher age rating. These elements are significantly toned up compared to the original Minecraft, where there are very few, if any, intentionally scary moments.
Themes and Narrative
The game also explores mildly dark themes. Even though the game doesn’t show gore or blood, the narrative involves monsters with the intent of destroying the characters, which could be frightening to some children. While the game focuses on themes of friendship, survival, and creativity, the darker elements, combined with the suspense and mild language, solidify the need for a PEGI 12 rating to ensure that children of the appropriate age range are playing.
Is Minecraft: Story Mode Appropriate for Kids?
Deciding whether Minecraft: Story Mode is appropriate for your child depends largely on their maturity level and sensitivity to language, suspense, and mildly dark themes. While the game has engaging story elements and promotes teamwork, creativity and overcoming challenges, it’s essential to consider if your child is ready for the content mentioned above. For younger children, it might be advisable to stick to the original Minecraft or other less story-driven adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to provide more clarity and information about Minecraft: Story Mode and its age rating:
1. Is Minecraft: Story Mode more violent than the original Minecraft?
No, Minecraft: Story Mode isn’t more violent in terms of displaying gore or excessive bloodshed. However, it includes suspenseful moments and jump scares that the original Minecraft lacks, which can be unsettling for younger players. The “violence” is mainly in the form of monsters and enemies chasing and attacking characters.
2. What kind of language does Minecraft: Story Mode contain?
The game uses mild language, including words like “hell,” “crap,” “damn,” and “freaking.” While not severe, this language contributes to the higher age rating.
3. Does Minecraft: Story Mode have blood or gore?
No, Minecraft: Story Mode does not feature any blood or gore. The game maintains the blocky aesthetic of the original Minecraft, which limits the depiction of intense violence.
4. Is Minecraft: Story Mode scary?
Yes, in parts. The game includes suspenseful moments and jump scares which might be scary for younger or more sensitive players. These moments are designed to create tension and unexpected frights.
5. Is Minecraft: Story Mode educational?
Yes, Minecraft: Story Mode is educational in terms of promoting problem-solving, teamwork, and creativity. It also provides a narrative structure that can be engaging for children and help improve their comprehension.
6. Is Minecraft: Story Mode good for younger kids?
Minecraft: Story Mode is generally not recommended for younger kids (under 12) due to its mild language, suspense, and jump scares. It is better suited for children who are mature enough to handle these aspects.
7. Why is Minecraft: Story Mode no longer available?
Telltale Games, the developer, closed down in 2018, leading to the game’s removal from digital storefronts due to expiring licensing rights. The servers were discontinued and therefore it cannot be bought anymore.
8. Is there a Minecraft: Story Mode 2?
Yes, there is a Minecraft: Story Mode – Season Two, but it also is not available for download after the discontinuation of the game servers.
9. Can you still play Minecraft: Story Mode?
No, due to the closure of Telltale Games and the subsequent removal of the game from storefronts, it is currently not possible to purchase or download Minecraft: Story Mode.
10. Is Minecraft rated the same as Minecraft: Story Mode?
No. While Minecraft is rated E10+ (Everyone 10+) in the US (equivalent to PEGI 7+ in Europe), Minecraft: Story Mode is rated PEGI 12+ due to its mild language and suspenseful elements.
11. What is the main difference between Minecraft and Minecraft: Story Mode?
The primary difference lies in the gameplay. The original Minecraft focuses on sandbox gameplay and building, while Minecraft: Story Mode is a narrative-driven adventure game.
12. Why did Netflix remove Minecraft: Story Mode?
Netflix removed the game in December 2022 as they were also impacted by the license expiration.
13. Is Minecraft safe for kids?
Minecraft is generally considered safe for kids aged 8 and up, but parents should be aware of the possibility of online interactions and in-game purchases. It has a E10+ (Everyone 10+) rating.
14. Can you get banned for cursing in Minecraft?
No, you cannot get banned for cursing in Minecraft alone. The types of behavior that could get someone suspended or banned are hate speech, bullying, harassment, sexual solicitation, or making true threats to others.
15. Is it too late to play Minecraft?
No, it is never too late to play Minecraft, as it is enjoyed by people of all ages and there is no official age limit. The game is constantly updated to keep it engaging and fun.
By understanding the factors behind the PEGI 12 rating for Minecraft: Story Mode, parents and guardians can make informed decisions about whether the game is appropriate for their children. While the game offers an engaging narrative and fun characters, it is essential to consider the impact of its mild language, suspense, and mildly dark themes.