Dark Souls 2 gets a milder rating than its predecessor

From Software's upcoming RPG Dark Souls II has earned a milder rating than its predecessor from the US ratings group ESRB.

Dark Souls II has been rated a "T", with the ESRB saying such titles are suitable for those aged 13 and older, whereas Dark Souls and Demon's Souls both received "M" ratings, which means they're for those 17 or older.

Will Dark Souls II be less morbid and disturbing than its predecessors? A recent trailer (below) suggests not, but what do you think?

In explaining the "T" rating, the ESRB also revealed more snippets of info about the game. Mild spoilers ahead!

"Players traverse dungeon-like settings and battle a variety of fantastical enemies (e.g., ghouls, zombies, skeletons, giant rats) to gain souls. Players use knives, swords, and arrows to defeat enemies. Combat is highlighted by cries of pain and small splashes of blood," writes the ESRB.

"Some locations depict instances of blood and gore: a giant snake boss holding its severed head; a giant boss creature composed of hundreds of corpses; dead ogres near a pool of blood; a torture device with streaks of blood. During the course of the game, a boss creature appears partially topless (e.g. hair barely covering breasts). The words 'bastard' and “pr*ck” can be heard in the dialogue."

Dark Souls II will be released for Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 on March 11. A PC version will follow at a later date.