There are many reasons to be concerned about violence in video games. Often, this is a result of strong language and content. In addition, some games may allow the use of alcohol. While real-life situations may differ from those in video games, this does not mean that a game is inappropriate for young children. Here are some tips for parents to keep in mind when playing video games with their children.
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Game violence
Game violence in kid-friendly games like GTA isn’t necessarily harmful to children. While many games feature realistic violence and some have educational content, the vast majority of games promote violent behavior and focus on negative themes. Games promote war-like scenarios, criminal activity, disrespect for authority figures, sexual exploitation of women, and racial and gender stereotypes. Popular video games, like Grand Theft Auto, don’t encourage children to be compassionate and can even have a negative effect on their self-esteem. Ultimately, they can cause children to lose interest in academics and move away from their family.
While some critics have praised Grand Theft Auto IV for its realistic gameplay, some anti-violence advocates have spoken out against it. Florida attorney Jack Thompson called the game the “gravest assault on children since polio.” In California, state senator Leland Yee urged parents to stay away from the controversial game. However, Harvard University researchers have argued that violent games don’t cause youth violence.
Strong language
There are some things that parents should know about the use of strong language in games. While it is not necessarily the fault of the game developer, it is worth considering whether it is appropriate for children to be exposed to such content. The language is often included in cut scenes and character interactions. Since children are usually influenced by what they see and hear, parents should avoid allowing their children to play games that contain such language. Another problem with strong language in games is that they can allow their children to consume alcohol, which is not acceptable in real life.
Despite the fact that GTA games are rated M, it contains strong language, including profanity and violence. The game contains more swear words than even the most adult show, South Park, which is infamous for its excessive use of profanity. Children should avoid playing games like Grand Theft Auto because of the language. However, they should not be put off by the amount of profanity, as GTA allows their players to be CEO of their own company. They should be aware that GTA games are violent, but this is not the case with Call of Duty.
Strong sexual content
Although the video game industry is generally conservative about the sexual content of its titles, some games have been rated M or even AO by the Entertainment Software Ratings Board. Games like GTA IV are no exception. They include sex with various instruments, blowing a player’s head off, and implied fellatio and masturbation. Although players cannot view body parts, there are sexual references, such as a scene where Michael draws a penis.
Violence and strong sexual themes can be found in PG-13 rated titles. Intense blood, weapons, human injury, and depictions of death may be present. Strong language, profanity, and simulated gambling are common, as are frequent references to alcohol, drugs, and sexuality. In addition, the game may portray characters in dangerous situations and contain brief, partial nudity. While GTA and Fallout 4 may be rated “T” for their sexual content, there is a lower threshold for games rated AO or M.
Loot boxes
One of the most popular video game series of all time, Grand Theft Auto, has a dark reputation for its violence. Despite its popularity, the games have a number of issues with children. One of the most notorious was a hot coffee mod that allowed players to unlock a hidden sex scene in the game. The Hot Coffee Mod cost Rockstar Games and its parent company Take-Two millions of dollars. Even though these issues have been resolved, the GTA series remains inappropriate for kids. While the Grand Theft Auto series has had a tumultuous past, the games continue to be popular today. With Grand Theft Auto V, the games have made their return to the fictional San Andreas in 2013.
However, a recent study has revealed that violence in video games is more likely to affect children if they are exposed to large amounts of violence. For example, if a child plays the GTA series for a long time, he or she may never buy a revolver in real life. While the violence in this game isn’t particularly offensive, it is still considered a violent game.