Description: Mature content refers to game material intended for adult audiences due to themes or graphic content. This type of content may include extreme violence, strong language, sexual situations, drug use, and other elements that are not appropriate for a younger audience. Games rated ‘M’ (Mature) by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) are a clear example of this type of content. The rating is based on an assessment of the elements present in the game, and its goal is to inform consumers about the nature of the material they are about to experience. Mature content is not limited to violence or sex; it can also address complex themes such as morality, politics, and human psychology, allowing developers to explore deeper and more nuanced narratives. As the video game industry has evolved, so has the perception of mature content, which has shifted from being seen as a niche to becoming an integral part of the offerings of many developers, enabling the creation of richer and more varied gaming experiences.
History: The concept of mature content in video games began to take shape in the 1990s when developers started exploring darker and more complex themes in their narratives. An important milestone was the release of ‘Mortal Kombat’ in 1992, which featured graphic violence and sparked public debate about content regulation in video games. This culminated in the creation of the ESRB in 1994, which established a rating system to help consumers identify appropriate content for different ages. Since then, many games have been rated ‘M’ for their mature content, allowing developers to tackle more serious and controversial themes.
Uses: Mature content is primarily used in video games that aim to attract an adult audience, allowing developers to explore complex narratives and themes that resonate with more mature life experiences. This includes creating stories that address moral dilemmas, complicated interpersonal relationships, and situations of violence or conflict that reflect reality. Additionally, mature content can be a tool for fostering discussions about social and cultural issues, providing players with a way to reflect on important matters through interactive play.
Examples: Examples of games with mature content include ‘The Last of Us’, which addresses themes of survival and morality in a post-apocalyptic world, and ‘Grand Theft Auto V’, which features violence, crime, and social satire. Another example is ‘God of War’, which explores mythology and revenge through an intense and graphic narrative. These games are not only recognized for their mature content but also for their narrative and technical quality, demonstrating that adult content can coexist with innovative and engaging gaming experiences.
