The online shooter Destiny 2 (PC, PS4, Xbox One) has received a “T for Teen” rating from the relevant US authorities. However, the description does not sound entirely violence-free.
Destiny is supposed to be a game for the “whole family”. Bungie established this during the initial presentation. Even a seven-year-old should be able to play Destiny with their father.
This was a particular matter for Bungie because the studio’s major successes, the Halo titles, had a “M for Mature” rating, implying they were suitable for ages 17 and up.
It is thanks to this “T” rating (for ages 13 and up) that the universe of Destiny handles violence quite loosely, but takes a step back on other matters. There is no alcohol or drugs in Destiny. Swearing is also absent. And God forbid there is any mention of sex.
Now, the assessment for Destiny 2 was due, and the relevant US authority, ESRB, decided: Destiny 2 is suitable for T for Teens, ages 13 and up.
Electrocutions are okay, as long as no one swears!
The description does not sound all that lenient. It states:
“Players use pistols, machine guns, rocket launchers, and various elemental weapons (e.g., flaming swords, electric staffs) to kill their opponents. The battles are intense and accompanied by realistic combat sounds and large explosions.
Cutscenes sometimes show dramatic battles between spacecraft and how characters are shot, electrified, or choked. Blood splatters appear on the screen when players are injured, and some creatures explode in a black liquid when killed.”
The best part comes at the end. “The word A*hole can be heard in a dialogue.”
Thus, ESRB evaluates: Violence can be plentiful. As long as no one smokes, nobody says A*hole, and God forbid there is any sex shown!
In Germany, Destiny 2 is expected to receive a rating of 16 from the USK, just like its predecessor.
More on the topic:
Destiny was conceived from the beginning as a game for 7-year-olds
