Based on the provided information, Among Us is generally considered best for kids ages 10 and older. While its popularity spans various age groups, its suitability for younger children comes with considerations.
Understanding the Age Recommendation
According to the reference, the game is best for kids ages 10 and older. This recommendation is primarily based on two factors inherent in the gameplay experience:
- Violent Premise: The core concept involves players attempting to identify and eliminate impostors, who in turn are trying to kill the crewmates. While the graphics are cartoony and not overly gory, the theme revolves around betrayal and murder.
- Open Chat Feature: Among Us includes an open text chat where players can communicate. In public lobbies, this means players may encounter conversations with strangers, which could expose them to inappropriate language or content.
Age Ratings from Reputable Sources
Leading organizations that provide age ratings for video games align with the recommendation for older children. Both the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) and Common Sense Media have evaluated Among Us:
- ESRB Rating: 10+ (Everyone 10+)
- Common Sense Media Rating: 10+
These ratings reinforce the idea that while the game is not rated "Mature," it contains elements better suited for players aged 10 and up.
Supervised Play for Younger Kids
The reference also notes that supervised play may be okay for slightly younger children. This suggests that with parental involvement, such as playing together or monitoring the chat, some of the risks associated with the open chat feature or the game's premise can be mitigated.
Summary of Recommendations
Here's a quick look at the age guidance for Among Us:
| Recommendation | Age Group | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Generally Best For | 10 and older | Violent premise, open chat |
| Potentially Okay With | Slightly younger | Active supervision recommended |
Conclusion
In summary, while Among Us is safe in terms of not containing excessive gore or graphic violence, its themes of murder and betrayal, combined with an open chat system that can expose players to unpredictable interactions, lead experts to recommend it primarily for children aged 10 and above. Parental discretion and supervision can play a key role for children slightly younger than this guideline.
