OK, is this really an issue?

[ShadowHM]

Hi Occhi

My kids get the chance to try a number of games. At this point, the older two can and will bring games home to play that might not be just right for a younger one.

I tend to watch them play for a bit, and make comments. For example, on this past weekend, the eldest was kind (sic) enough to bring Mortal Kombat: Deception to the cottage. Our hero (guided by the 11 year old) was observed running down the street, punching pedestrians/innocent bystanders.

"Why are you doing this, son? Is it part of the quest?"

"No, Mom. But sometimes they have money and they drop it, and I can pick it up for later use."

Uh huh :wacko:

We had a chat about just how that looked, and just how they might feel about that if they were said innocent bystander. We then let them have at the game again. When the behaviour continued, we cut them off.

Then they played Oddworld: Strangers Wrath for a bit (also brought by the eldest son). Interestingly, if you punch innocent bystanders in this game, while they do drop money, they will also get together and shoot you if you persist. :) Also, somehow, when the innocent bystanders don't look human, it is easier for this old fart to believe that they kids won't be taking life lessons from how they behave in the game. I can't say whether that perception is good or bad, but there you go.

So, the short answer is: I take them one game at a time, although the aforementioned eldest was bright enough to self-censor on GTA: SA and left that one at his home. He reported to me separately that he was sure it was inappropriate for the young fellows.