A violent act might be interpreted differently based on how close a player is to the action and how frequently this content occurs.
Referred To
Some games might not have violence as part of the primary game mechanic, but instead have a storyline or plot point involving a violent act that is communicated strictly as described - not visually, but referred to via text or dialogue such as a newspaper headline referring to a murder or two characters discussing a foiled assassination plot.
Video examplesImplied
This is where players do not actually see the violence against humans, but it is obvious that it is happening. It covers such matters as the bombing of a city where players know civilians are killed or injured, blowing up a tank or shooting down a plane where players know that the crew is killed, smashing into cars or other vehicles where the driver/passenger must be injured.
Video examplesDistant
The violence is seen, but from a distant perspective. Characters shown take up a small portion of the screen. Examples of games that typically fall into this category are strategy games, platformers, and top-down shooters.
Video examplesClose-up
The violence is shown up-close, thus possessing the ability to depict detail. Characters shown take up a moderate or large portion of the screen. Examples of games that typically fall into this category are first- and third-person shooters or games that include interactive video sequences of violence.
Video examples