This note comes from Mistlift, a plain-language guide for parents and educators to what kids are into online.
A note for families: Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4
What it is
A new mature-rated military shooter is getting heavy coverage from teen-popular YouTube creators, so many younger players and viewers will want it; it is mostly a content-fit and online-chat question, not a danger.
How much it matters
Neutral. Not a risk, but worth understanding so you know what they mean.
Should you worry?
This is a mature-rated game, so the first step is to look at the age rating on the store page and decide whether the violence and language fit your teen. The bigger everyday issue is online play: voice and text chat with strangers can bring insults, trash talk and sometimes pressure to move to other apps. Check the privacy and chat settings on the console or account, set the limits you are comfortable with, and agree on play times. If your teen is younger than the rating, you do not have to say yes, but a clear reason and a calm conversation will go further than a flat ban. Watch for changes in mood after play, secrecy about who they talk to, or unexpected spending.
What to say
“I saw the new Call of Duty is out and everyone's talking about it. What's the appeal for you? I want to know who you play with and how the chat is, and we can figure out together what works for our house.”
Sources
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LxtAJhcLq_Y https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LxtAJhcLq_Y
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=em3hE0bhrlo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=em3hE0bhrlo
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HVOcnzuwgxk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HVOcnzuwgxk
Read the full card, and share it, at mistlift.app/cards/call-of-duty-modern-warfare-4