A Plague Tale: Innocence

A Plague Tale: Innocence

game

2019, Adventure

WISE
72%

WISE Score

80%

IGDB

A beautiful, brutal tale of two kids vs. the plague—think medieval survival horror with a heart, but definitely not for the squeamish.

Where to Play

Xbox
Xbox
PlayStation
PlayStation
PC/Steam
PC/Steam
Screenwise Verdict

A Plague Tale: Innocence is one of those rare games that treats its medium like literature—slow-burn, character-driven, emotionally devastating. The sibling bond is the heart of the story, and it's genuinely affecting in a way most games never achieve.

But let's be clear: this is not for kids. The M rating is well-earned. Rats swarm and consume people in graphic detail. The Inquisition is brutal. The language is rough. The entire atmosphere is oppressive and grim. If your teen can handle The Last of Us or similar mature content, they can handle this. If they're sensitive to violence or dark themes, skip it.

For older teens and adults who appreciate story-driven games, this is a must-play. It's smart, original, and emotionally resonant. Just know what you're getting into.

Age Fit

This is strictly for older teens (17+) and adults who can handle graphic violence and emotionally intense storytelling. Younger players will be disturbed by the gore and dark themes. It's a masterclass in narrative-driven gaming, but absolutely not for kids.

WISE Breakdown
Wholesome
68

Two siblings protecting each other through horrific circumstances creates a deeply emotional bond and models sacrifice, loyalty, and resilience. Parent reviews note the characters are 'good role models' with 'no moral ambiguity.' However, the setting is relentlessly grim—14th-century plague, Inquisition brutality, constant death—which doesn't make for uplifting viewing. The wholesomeness comes from the relationship, not the world around them.

Imaginative
82

The premise of navigating swarms of plague rats as a core mechanic is genuinely original and unsettling in the best way. The historical setting of medieval France during the Black Death is richly realized, blending stealth, puzzles, and environmental storytelling. The game invites creative problem-solving with limited resources, and the dark fairy-tale atmosphere feels fresh in a sea of zombie shooters.

Safe
35

ESRB rated M for Mature 17+ with Blood and Gore, Strong Language, and Violence. This is not a surprise—the game features graphic deaths by rat swarms, Inquisition executions, and visceral combat. While there are no in-game purchases, online chat, or predatory monetization, the content itself is intense and disturbing. Common Sense Media parent reviews acknowledge 'violent at times' and kid reviews note 'too much violence; too much swearing.' This is absolutely not for younger players.

Enriching
78

The game tackles heavy themes—survival, family bonds, historical atrocity, moral choices under duress—with nuance. Players learn about the Black Death, medieval society, and the Inquisition in a visceral way. The stealth and puzzle mechanics build strategic thinking and resource management. Reviews praise the 'compelling plot' and 'grounded characters who aren't instant heroes,' which teaches that courage isn't about picking up a sword but about protecting those you love.

Parent Info
✓

Why It Might Be Great

  • The sibling relationship is genuinely moving—Amicia and Hugo's bond deepens through shared trauma in a way that feels earned, not manipulative
  • Historically grounded in 14th-century France during the Black Death, offering a visceral history lesson wrapped in stealth gameplay
  • Original mechanics: using light to control swarms of rats creates tense, creative puzzle-solving moments
  • Strong narrative that doesn't rely on power-fantasy tropes—these are vulnerable kids adapting to survive, not instant heroes
  • Gorgeous art direction that makes even the darkest moments hauntingly beautiful
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What to Watch For

  • Graphic violence and gore—rats devouring people alive, Inquisition executions, bloody combat. This earns its M rating.
  • Strong language throughout, including f-bombs in tense moments
  • Relentlessly dark and emotionally heavy—themes of death, disease, persecution, and loss pervade every chapter
  • Not a game to play with younger siblings in the room; the imagery will stick with you

Conversation Starters

  • "How do you think Amicia and Hugo's relationship changed throughout the game? What would you do to protect someone you love?"
  • "What did you learn about the Black Death and medieval Europe? How do you think people coped with something so terrifying?"
  • "The game forces you to make tough choices with limited resources. When did you feel most conflicted about what to do?"
  • "Why do you think the Inquisition is hunting Hugo? What does the game say about power and fear?"

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