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Reviews
August 25, 2020
Common Sense Media exaggerates in their review, teens can easily handle this content
First off, I would like to say that this game is not nearly as bad as the Common Sense Media review would have you believe. Early teenagers can definitely handle this game, and despite what parents would like to believe, they’ve probably seen worse.
First off, violence. I find in most reviews, gore is often greatly exaggerated. In truth, even in the bloodiest games (which this does not even fall under) the “gore” is some red splashes, and little more. The Witcher is comparable to Skyrim in this sense, and unless your child was extremely sheltered from violence for all their life or feel sick at the sight of blood, they will be fine! In fact, you’re probably more scared or uncomfortable at the sight of blood than they are. Most teens are not fragile, and you treating them as such will only irritate and insult them.
Secondly, sex and nudity. Again, many parents might underestimate their child’s ability to handle this. But let’s be honest - if they really want to see nudity and sex, they will, and no parental restrictions or stern lectures will stop them. With the internet and the increasing virtual connectivity in our society, they will find it, and you will likely never know. Hell, if they’re above the age of 15 or 16, they’re statistically probably not even a virgin. So trust your kids. If you tell them they’re not allowed to play the game because of this or if you try and disable cutscenes, it’ll only make them more determined and curious, and I can guarantee, you won’t win that battle. Besides, the nudity and suggestiveness in the Witcher is fairly light anyway, with the extent of it being the occasional breast or butt, along with a bit of suggestive moaning.
Thirdly, language and drinking. As far as language goes, the Witcher doesn’t have anything a kid might not hear at school, using a fair bit of f**k, s**t, and the rare (though more offensive) c**t. While it’s hardly tame, again, they have probably heard it all before (maybe even from you!) so it shouldn’t be too bad. Where drinking is concerned, the Witcher is quite heavy on it in some parts, but that should only be a problem for you if alcohol is treated as a “forbidden fruit” at your table. If kids are curious, let them have a little to taste. Chances are, they’ll hate it, and probably won’t even consider drinking for quite a while.
Luckily drugs are virtually non-existent, unless you count magical potions as drugs, which I think is ridiculous.
And finally, although the tone of the story may be dark, there are countless small messages and characters throughout the game who are positive role models and send positive messages. It is up to the player how to act, and they can be a gruff disillusioned realist to a kind, caring protector.
So to conclude, I would recommend the game for ages 14+, for teens can most definitely handle its content.