Call of Duty (CoD) is one of the most popular first-person shooter (FPS) franchises globally, known for its intense military combat, realistic graphics, and competitive multiplayer modes. However, when it comes to younger players, especially 13-year-olds, parents often wonder if the game is suitable and safe. This article explores the content, age ratings, and parental controls associated with Call of Duty to help families make informed decisions.
Age Ratings and Content Overview
- PEGI Rating: Most Call of Duty titles carry a PEGI 18 rating, indicating they are intended for adults aged 18 and over. This rating is due to graphic violence, strong language, and depictions of violence against vulnerable characters.
- ESRB Rating: Similarly, the ESRB rates Call of Duty games as Mature 17+, meaning they are recommended for players aged 17 and above due to intense violence, blood and gore, and strong language.
- Violent Content: The game features realistic depictions of war, including shootings, explosions, torture scenes, and terrorist attacks. Players often face moral decisions, such as distinguishing between enemy combatants and innocent civilians.
- Language and Themes: The game contains strong language and mature themes, including drug references in some versions.
Why the Concern for 13-Year-Olds?
At age 13, children are still developing emotionally and cognitively. Exposure to graphic violence and mature language can have varying effects, depending on the individual child’s maturity and sensitivity.
- The hyper-realistic violence in Call of Duty is more intense than many other popular games aimed at younger audiences, such as Fortnite or PUBG, which have less graphic visuals.
- The multiplayer environment exposes players to unfiltered voice and text chat, which can include inappropriate language, bullying, or toxic behavior from other players.
Can Call of Duty Be Made Safer for Younger Players?
While the official ratings advise against play by children under 17 or 18, parents who choose to allow their 13-year-olds to play Call of Duty can take several steps to mitigate risks:
- Enable Parental Controls:
- Consoles like PlayStation and Xbox offer parental control settings to restrict game access based on age ratings.
- Controls can also limit in-game purchases, screen time, and online interactions.
- Turn Off Graphic Content:
- The game settings allow disabling blood effects, gore, and dismemberment.
- Profanity filters can be enabled to reduce exposure to strong language.
- Disable Voice and Text Chat:
- Voice chat can be turned off to prevent exposure to inappropriate language or harassment.
- Text chat filters and muting options are also available.
- Supervise Gameplay:
- Parents should monitor how their child reacts to the game content and the online community.
- Encourage breaks and discuss the difference between game violence and real life.
- Use Private or Controlled Multiplayer Sessions:
- Playing with known friends rather than random online players can reduce the risk of toxic interactions.
Special Considerations for Call of Duty: Mobile
- Call of Duty: Mobile is rated 17+ on app stores due to similar mature content.
- It features voice and text chat, customizable controls, and competitive multiplayer modes.
- Since mobile devices are more accessible to younger players, parental supervision and device-level controls are especially important.
Summary: Is Call of Duty OK for 13-Year-Olds?
- Official ratings from PEGI and ESRB clearly recommend Call of Duty for ages 17 or 18 and above due to graphic violence and mature themes.
- The game’s realistic violence, strong language, and online multiplayer environment can be challenging for younger teens.
- However, with active parental involvement, enabling in-game filters, disabling chat features, and using console-level controls, it is possible to create a safer experience for mature 13-year-olds who demonstrate emotional readiness.
- Parents should carefully assess their child’s maturity, monitor gameplay, and maintain open communication about the content and behavior encountered in the game.
Final Advice for Parents
Call of Duty is designed primarily for adult audiences, and its intense content reflects that. For 13-year-olds, it is crucial that parents weigh the risks and benefits, apply all available safety settings, and stay engaged with their child’s gaming habits. When managed responsibly, the game can be a source of entertainment and social interaction, but caution and supervision are key to ensuring a positive experience.