Zenimax’s upcoming MMO, Elder Scrolls Online, has officially been rated M by the ESRB. The rating is for Blood and Gore, Sexual Themes, Alcohol, and Violence. Bethesda revealed the rating on their Facebook page.
On the same post, Zenimax has revealed that they have no intention of challenging the rating, although they actually disagree with it. This is because they are unwilling to change the actual content to get a different rating. They do want to retain the game they intended people to play. Zenimax is now in the process of spreading the word about the rating.
Things are starting to shape up for Elder Scrolls Online. We know that the game is coming to Windows and OS X on April 4, and there will be cross platform play among computer users. We also know Playstation 4 and Xbox One owners will also get the game in June, but console players will be gated to playing with people in their own platforms.
Lastly, the game will have a $ 14.99 monthly subscription fee across all platforms. Although this announcement received initial negative reception, it is a proven business model for the game genre, and it is likely loyal fans will at least sign up at the onset to try it out.
Considering Skyrim also received an M rating, it’s unlikely that it would be a factor in older players signing up again. I am sure Zenimax expressed disagreement because they hoped to get a broader market with a lower rating. However, all this really means is they can focus on making a game to retain their already loyal fanbase.