Dark Souls II

Game review by Marc Saltzman, Common Sense Media
Dark Souls II Poster Image

Common Sense says

age 14+

Despite loads of fantasy violence, this tough RPG impresses.

Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Windows 2014
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Parents say

age 12+

Based on 7 reviews

Kids say

age 12+

Based on 20 reviews

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A Lot or a Little?

The parents' guide to what's in this game.

What Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that Dark Souls II isn't quite as gory as its predecessor, but it still focuses heavily on fantasy combat against a variety of creatures using all manner of deadly weapons. Set in the treacherous kingdom of Drangleic, the game has some blood and a little gore, plus a few potentially disturbing scenes, including a giant serpent holding its own severed head and an enemy comprising hundreds of human corpses. Dark Souls II also features some partial nudity, moderate profanity, and unmonitored online communication with other players. Older teens should appreciate the dark story line and fresh challenges, whereas younger kids may be overwhelmed by the unsettling imagery.

Community Reviews

Colin W.
Colin W. Adult
November 14, 2017
age 13+

An amazing brain teaser for avid gamer kids!

Dark Souls 2 may seem like a violent bloodbath to parents who are unfamiliar with video games. But, this is surely not the case. Dark Souls 2 and others in the series contain a hero of some sort trying to avenge himself. It is based heavily on fantasy elements and has many monsters to fight! Dark Souls 2 is notoriously difficult, many kids enjoy this game deeply and there for play it constantly. Due to its near extreme difficulty, it has a complex combat system that can only be matched by a brain teaser. It requires kids and parents alike to memorize and react to enemy movements and attacks. As crazy as this seems, it can also teach kids to work hard! Many people who keep trying over and over to become better at the game will eventually be rewarded for their time with in-game weapons and items. Nudity and Sexual content in this game is almost non-existent due to many enemies and characters are heavily clothed to protect themselves from enemies. Blood and gore is hardly noticeable, and besides your kids will be focusing more on the action of the game! This is a truly amazing game that will keep your kids engrossed in its world for hours!

This title has:

Great messages
Galahad D.
Galahad D. Adult
November 27, 2016
age 12+

A modern fantasy masterpiece.

I got this game for my son a couple years ago, and every time I stopped by his room to watch him play it, I was amazed at the beautiful world, the rich lore, and the interesting characters. As for the violence? The game had weapons like a sword, or a dagger, but no guns or knives. There was a bit of blood in the game, but about as much as a Zalda game. I think this game exceeds in all aspects.
See all 7 parent reviews

What’s It About?

DARK SOULS II is the highly anticipated sequel to one of the most notoriously difficult role-playing games (RPGs) in recent memory. This Japanese-made adventure definitely includes some of the series' hallmarks: third-person action, unrelenting enemies, eerie labyrinths to explore, and epic boss battles. But there's lots of fresh content too: a new undead hero, an updated story line, advanced graphics, and both cooperative and competitive multiplayer support. Along with many weapons to master, Dark Souls II includes lots of customization options, unlockable moves, and various soul-sucking skills to use against enemy ghouls, zombies, giant rats, and the like.

Is It Any Good?

With its dark atmosphere, thrilling combat, and memorable enemies, Dark Souls II ends up being just as gratifying as its predecessor. Rather than being kept on a short leash, this time you're rewarded for exploring all the spooky environments found throughout the land of Drangleic (picking up secrets and collectibles along the way), while the intense combat rewards you with weapon and armor upgrades, new skills, and other assorted goodies. Also, if you found the first game a bit too hard, you'll be pleased that Dark Souls II goes easier on you than its infamous forerunner, making for a less frustrating experience overall. (Note: Although it's rated Teen by the ESRB, there's still a lot of stuff here that may be too disturbing for younger players.) However, if you enjoy fantasy combat with great pacing, an enjoyably dark plot, and ultra-creepy boss fighters, Dark Souls II is worth your time and money.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Is fantasy violence such as this tame by today's standards -- enough to net a Teen rather than a Mature rating? As Common Sense Media lists here, other role-playing games (RPGs) have considerably less violence, blood, and gore.

Game Details

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