The M rating, which stands for "Mature", signifies that the content is suitable and intended specifically for audiences aged 17 and up. Games and movies display an M rating contain material that is more graphic, intense or explicit when compared to other lower ratings.
A Brief History of the M Rating
The M rating was first introduced for video games in 1994 by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB). The intention was to indicate games with content unsuitable for minors, enabling consumers and parents to make informed choices.
For movies, the ratings system is handled by the Motion Picture Association (MPAA). Prior to the 1990s, movies could only display G, PG, R and X ratings. The creation of the M rating for video games demonstrated a need for an intermediate rating between PG and R. Thus in 1990, the MPAA introduced the new NC-17 rating to replace X for films, and tweaked the R rating to indicate adult supervision was required for children under 17.
The M rating has now been in use for over 25 years, giving guidance to consumers about the adult-oriented content in certain games and films.
Typical Content Found in M Rated Games and Films
The M rating signals that the content is specifically designed for adults aged 17+. Here are some examples of the type of material commonly found in M rated games and movies:
Violence and Gore
- Prolonged scenes of brutal violence
- Blood and gore used realistically
- Body mutilation or torture may be depicted
For example, intense and visceral action scenes, war violence, or slasher horror effects.
Strong Language
- Pervasive use of profane and explicit language
- Sexual expletives and dialogue
Dialogue contains constant harsh or offensive language.
Mature Themes
- Disturbing or dark existential themes
- Moral ambiguity and corruption
- Criminal behavior
Storylines featuring issues like drug addiction, racism, dysfunctional families and sexuality.
Sexual Content
- Nudity in sexual contexts
- Explicit sexual behavior/activity
- Sexual violence implied or depicted
Shows sexual material in graphic detail, including the depiction of intercourse and genitals.
Drugs and Alcohol
- Drug/alcohol usage and addiction themes
- Possible positive depictions of drug use
Prominent inclusion of illegal drugs, substance abuse, and drunkenness.
This mature content is handled in a graphic, gritty and unflinching manner not suitable for younger viewers.
Rating Comparisons – How Does M Compare?
The M rating lies between the T (Teen) rating and R (Restricted) rating in terms of suitability.
| Rating | Meaning | Age Guideline |
|---|---|---|
| EC | Early Childhood | Under 6 years |
| E | Everyone | All ages |
| E10+ | Everyone 10+ | Ages 10 and up |
| T | Teen | Ages 13 and up |
| M | Mature | Ages 17 and up |
| AO | Adults Only | Ages 18 and up |
As seen above, the M rating is intended for ages 17 and older. It contains more mature content than the Teen rating which is suitable for ages 13+. Meanwhile M has less restrictions than the higher AO (18+) rating reserved for outright pornographic material.
The M rating clearly signals that parents and guardians should prevent children under 17 accessing this entertainment media until reaching sufficient maturity.
Public Perception and Controversies
The M rating has caused controversy and differing views over the years when it comes to suitability.
Supporters argue it empowers consumers and allows creators freedom to tackle mature themes unsuitable for children. However critics suggest overly graphic content desensitizes society and should have tighter restrictions. Others believe the current age ratings and content warnings are sufficient.
In general, there is broad consensus that games and films designated as M rated contain more extreme content only suitable for mature audiences. But perceptions over what level of violence for example should be "restricted" remains mixed. This is an issue that will continue to be debated as entertainment media evolves.
The Impact and Effects of Exposure to M Rated Content
There are associated impacts regarding exposure of minors to inappropriate levels of violence, language and sex via M rated media:
Psychological Effects
Frequent exposure from young age could potentially lead to:
- Desensitization towards violence/sex
- Distorted concept of reality and relationships
- Anxiety, depression or sleeping disorders
- Becoming numb, fearful or aggressive
Behavioral and Social Effects
Risks include:
- Imitating inappropriate language picked up
- Displaying over-sexualized behavior
- Becoming anti-social or detached from reality
- Attention and learning difficulties
The interactivity of video games can increase these effects. Children may lack the judgment to separate fantasy from reality.
Brain Development Considerations
A child or teen‘s brain is still forming neural connections and control mechanisms in areas governing:
- Decision making
- Impulse control
- Emotional regulation
Exposure to hyper-violent media could potentially impact development of these frontal lobes in the brain.
Despite these concerns, some meta-analyses suggest the overall impacts seem small and effects are highly variable depending on the individual. Gentle exposure in a controlled, guided format may avoid negative outcomes.
Advice for Parents Regarding M Rated Games and Movies
- Adhere to the age rating guidelines. Do NOT allow children under 17 access.
- Research specific content descriptions if mature teens request access
- Set clear rules and limitations around access if allowing teenagers
- Monitor for any warning signs of negative impacts
- Encourage balance alongside healthier activities
- Be involved and discuss meaningful messages or lessons
Use judgment to assess individual child maturity rather than relying solely on age. Maintain open channels of communication regarding media consumption. Support children in processing messages by discussing your own views.
The Future Evolution of the M Rating
As technology and entertainment media continues advancing into more immersive formats like virtual reality, pressure may build for more precise age rating information.
For example, some groups argue for ratings like M to be divided into further graduated categories:
- M15+ – Strong violence, mild language/sex
- M17+ – Graphic content, intense themes
- M18+ – Explicit sexual content
This could allow fine-tuning guidance for borderline 15/16 year olds versus different standards expected of mature 18 year old adults.
We may also see demands for specific types content warnings around things like:
- Violence level – Mild, Strong, Extreme
- Gore amount – Low, Moderate, High
- Sex level – Suggestive, Explicit
Tools like AI could even allow automated analysis of objectionable frames, counting swear words, or detecting levels of blood.
Augmented reality could also result in digital enforcement of age ratings.
Despite any changes, the fundamental purpose would remain unchanged – to protect minors from inappropriate content while upholding creative freedoms and parental responsibility.
Summary
The M rating for games, films and media indicates content exclusively suitable for ages 17 and up. It contains graphic violence, sex, language and themes requiring greater maturity to handle appropriately. Parents are strongly cautioned to restrict access for minors. As technology progresses, we may see more granular ratings evolve, but the spirit of empowering ethical choices shall continue.
