Dungeons, Darkness, and Discernment: A Christian Parent’s Perspective on TTRPGs

If approached with wisdom, dark-themed games can provide valuable spiritual insights and lessons.

When we think of tabletop roleplaying games (TTRPGs), we often picture heroic journeys, noble quests, and thrilling adventures. But some games and settings lean into a much darker, grittier tone, where stories of suffering, corruption, and moral struggle are pervasive. For Christian parents—especially those whose kids are interested in games like Dungeons & Dragons or Shadowdark—this raises an important question: Should we be concerned about the themes present in these games? And how do we discern what’s age-appropriate for our children?

As someone who regularly runs games for tweens and teens, I wrestle with these questions often. On the one hand, I want to create compelling stories that engage my players’ imaginations. On the other, I have a deep respect for parental boundaries and the responsibility to shape a game’s content in ways that align with both biblical wisdom and the maturity level of the players at the table. The tension I navigate isn’t just about my own convictions—it’s also about how to honour the trust that parents place in me as a game facilitator.

The Concern: Does Darkness in Games Pose a Spiritual Risk?

For many Christians, concerns about RPGs aren’t new. In the 1980s, Dungeons & Dragons was caught up in the Satanic Panic, with fears that it was a gateway to occultism, demonic influence, and moral corruption. While much of that hysteria was based on misinformation, it stemmed from a real concern: Does engaging with dark themes—even in a game—shape our souls in ways we don’t realize?

Scripture warns against participating in evil (Ephesians 5:11) and calls us to focus on what is true, noble, and pure (Philippians 4:8). But it also doesn’t shy away from depicting the reality of sin, suffering, and brokenness. From the fall of humanity to the crucifixion of Christ, the Bible portrays darkness not to glorify it, but to reveal the desperate need for redemption. If God, through His Word, allows us to wrestle with these realities, then perhaps exploring them through the vehicle of a TTRPG can serve a meaningful purpose.

Key Considerations for Parents

If your child is interested in games with darker themes, here are some guiding principles to help you make an informed decision:

1. Not All Dark Themes Are Created Equal

There’s a difference between a game that glorifies evil and one that uses darkness as a backdrop to highlight heroism, virtue, and redemption. Consider the difference between a film like The Lord of the Rings—which features dark, intense battles but ultimately points to hope—and a story that revels in nihilism. When evaluating a game, ask: Does this game encourage virtue and heroism, or does it celebrate darkness for its own sake?

2. Know Your Child’s Maturity Level

Different kids handle intense themes in different ways. What might be thought-provoking for a mature teen could be distressing for a younger child. Before introducing a new game, consider their emotional and spiritual maturity. Are they ready to engage with complex moral dilemmas? Do they struggle with fear or anxiety? Some kids thrive on intense storytelling, while others may find certain themes overwhelming.

3. Establish Boundaries with Your Child and Their Game Group

If your child is playing in a game group, whether at home or with friends, it’s worth having a conversation about content boundaries. Many RPGs include tools like “session zero” discussions, where players collectively set expectations about what themes are appropriate. As a parent, you can also establish clear guidelines about what kinds of content are off-limits. If you’re not sure, talk with the game master (GM) to understand what kind of story they’re running.

4. Encourage Critical Engagement

Rather than outright forbidding a game, consider using it as an opportunity for meaningful discussion. Ask your child about the choices their character makes. Are they playing in a way that aligns with their values? Do they see the difference between a game world’s darkness and the hope we have in Christ? Teaching discernment will serve them far beyond gaming—it will equip them to navigate stories, media, and real-world challenges with wisdom.

Why Christians Can Engage Thoughtfully with Darker Stories

If approached with wisdom, even dark-themed games can provide valuable lessons. Here’s why:

1. The Darker It Is, the Easier It Is to See the Light
   The Bible itself contrasts light and darkness to reveal truth (John 8:12). A dangerous, fallen game world can create space for characters to shine with courage, integrity, and sacrificial love.

2. Virtue is Sharpened in Moral Conflict
   Ethical dilemmas—like whether to show mercy to an enemy—mirror the challenges of real-world discipleship (Matthew 10:16). Wrestling with these choices in a game can help develop moral reasoning skills.

3. Redemptive Arcs Reflect the Gospel
   Many great stories begin in darkness but lead to redemption. A game where a fallen character seeks forgiveness or a broken world is restored through perseverance can powerfully echo biblical truths.

4. Building Resilience Through Storytelling
   James 1:2–4 reminds us that trials build perseverance. Encountering hardship in a controlled environment—like a game—can help kids develop resilience and faith in real-life struggles.

Final Thoughts: Discernment Over Blanket Bans

Not every dark story is worth exploring, and parents should always be vigilant about what their kids are engaging with. However, outright forbidding a game without understanding its content may miss an opportunity to guide kids in thoughtful, faith-filled engagement. Instead of asking Should Christians play dark-themed RPGs?, a better question might be: How can we engage with them in a way that honours God and strengthens our faith?

If your child is interested in games like Dungeons & Dragons or Shadowdark, take the time to understand the stories being told, set clear boundaries, and encourage them to reflect on how their play aligns with their values. Because even in the darkest of tales, the light of Christ can shine through.