Diablo IV is one of the most highly anticipated games in recent years, with fans eagerly awaiting its release. The game is set to be a darker and grittier take on the popular Diablo franchise, which has always been known for its mature themes and brutal gameplay. With the upcoming release of Diablo IV, parents may be wondering whether it is safe for their children to play. And to answer that, let’s take a closer look at the ESRB and PEGI age ratings for Diablo IV and whether it is appropriate for children.
Is it safe for children?
We know that Diablo fans have long awaited the coming of the fourth installment, but if you have children at home, do check this article out first. With the mature themes of hell, demons, gore, and such, Diablo IV is not suitable for children under the age of 16 or 17, respectively. And if you’re asking us if it’s safe for children, then our answer is no.
- If by children you meant minors 15 years old and below, might as well try another game to play during game nights. The action and role-playing game navigates around evil, dungeons, in a dark world. It wouldn’t be nice to open the innocent eyes of your children about the hell and darkness in their youth.
- Most themes in the game can be hard to explain to younger audiences. It would be best to let them play ratings around Everyone or Teen. Also, parents should make it a habit to check the age rating of games before they purchase or begin to play them.
US ESRB Rating
It is important to note that Diablo IV has already received its official rating from the ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board), which is responsible for assigning age ratings to video games. Given the mature themes and violent gameplay of previous Diablo games, the fourth installment, Diablo IV received a Mature (17+) rating.
- Just a quick overview for you, the Entertainment Software Rating Board has a few categories for each game and application that needs age appropriation guides. The ESRB ratings range from Everyone (E), Everyone (10+), Teen (T), Mature 17+ (M), and Adults Only 18+ (A). They also have RP for Rating Pending, and Rating Pending – Likely Mature 17+.
- The Mature 17+ (M) rating classifies Diablo IV as “content generally suitable for ages 17+. Could contain intense violence, gore and blood, sexual content, and strong language.”
US ESRB Rating for Diablo IV and the franchise: Mature 17+
EU PEGI Rating
On the other hand, the European Union has its rating board with Pan-European Game Information (PEGI). It is similar to the ESRB’s responsibility of classifying video games to know their age appropriation. PEGI also looks into the age suitability, and not the game level’s difficulty.
- Their rating includes PEGI 3, 7, 12, 16, and 18. All the previous Diablo games fell to a rating of PEGI 16. Most likely, the upcoming Diablo IV would receive a similar rating as the theme of the game remains the same.
- Under PEGI 16, the content consists of, a “depiction of violence reaching a stage that looks the same as real life. Use of bad language in PEGI 16 games can be more extreme. Use of alcohol, tobacco, or illegal drugs can also be present.”
EU PEGI Rating for Diablo IV and the franchise: PEGI 16
Why Diablo IV is rated Mature
When it comes to Diablo IV, the game’s themes, gameplay, and story all point to a mature rating. Players will be battling demons and monsters in a quest to save the world, using a variety of weapons and abilities to defeat their enemies.
- The game will feature graphic violence, including blood and gore, as well as themes of death, sacrifice, and demonic possession. In addition to the violent gameplay, Diablo IV may also feature sexual content and strong language. Previous Diablo games have included suggestive themes and innuendo, and Diablo IV will likely continue this trend. The game may also include strong language, including profanity and other adult languages.
- According to the official website of Diablo IV, it’s the “ultimate action RPG experience with endless evil to slaughter, countless abilities to master, nightmarish dungeons, and legendary loot.”
The Early Access for Diablo IV comes this March 17 to 19, 2023, while the Open Beta begins on March 24 to 26.
So, while it may be tempting to let your children play Diablo IV, it is important to consider the game’s content and rating before making a decision. As a parent or guardian, it is your responsibility to ensure that your children are not exposed to inappropriate content.
Feel free to share your thoughts with us about Diablo IV’s age rating and franchise in the comments below. Until then, stay with us here at Spiel Times for more content.