Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Gets “M” Rating From The ESRB
When a company sets out to make a game, there are certain things that they have to think about. I’m not talking about the basics like a plotline, character progression and gameplay mechanics. Rather, something that doesn’t always come to mind: The games ESRB rating. When Bethesda made Oblivion, they opted to design the game so that it could receive a “T for Teen” rating here in the US. Of course, thanks to the Oblivion Topless Mod, that was later bumped up to “M”.
With Oblivion’s changing rating, it’s left many of us wondering just where the company was headed with Skyrim. Would they risk losing out on sales to minors by creating a mature title? Or would they try to keep things clean to earn a Teen rating? Now that the ESRB has released their verdict on the game, we can safely say that it is the former.
Those familiar with more recent Fallout games will remember the bloody gore that would come from blowing off a body part, or landing a headshot. It seems that we will be treated to such things in the Elder Scrolls franchise as well. In fact, the ESRB specifically pointed out that “some sequences are highlighted by slow-motion effects, particularly for decapitations. Large blood-splatter effects also occur during combat.” They also mention instances where sex, and even rape are discussed, along with the consumption of alcohol, and drinking games.
I have to say that I’m happy to see all of this, not because I love violence, drinking and sex in my games (who doesn’t?), but because I’m confident that Bethesda is making the game they want to make. They aren’t toning down parts of the story that might be deemed unsuitable for younger eyes. They also aren’t trying to pretend that swinging an axe into someone’s head isn’t going to make them gush blood.
