Is It Permissible to Play Games With Realistic Human NPCs?
Shafi'i Fiqh
Answered by Shaykh Irshaad Sedick
Question
Is it permissible to play games with realistic human NPCs if they are not displayed lustfully?
Answer
In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful and Compassionate.
May Allah alleviate our difficulties and guide us to what pleases Him. Amin.
Thank you for your question.
The General Ruling
Scholars have long discussed the depiction of humans in art and media. Please consult the linked answer.
Applying to Realistic Human NPCs
- If not displayed lustfully, clothed modestly, and not encouraging haram (violence, vulgarity, immorality), their presence in a game is not sinful in itself.
- Participation is unlawful if the game contains elements that normalise indecency, shirk, or immoral conduct.
- When the game is mainly entertainment without spiritual harm, it falls into the acceptable category, though moderation and intention are important.
Practical Guidance
- Review the content: Steer clear of games that encourage indecency, mock religion, or promote violence.
- Monitor your time: Games can be addictive. Make sure they do not interfere with prayer or Qur’an reading.
- Guard your heart: If something plants inappropriate thoughts or desensitises you, step away.
- Keep balance: Use leisure as a means to refresh yourself for worship, not as an escape from it.
I pray Allah grants you clarity, balance, and baraka in how you spend your time.
And Allah knows best.
[Shaykh] Irshaad Sedick
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani
Shaykh Irshaad Sedick was raised in South Africa in a traditional Muslim family. He graduated from Dar al-Ulum al-Arabiyyah al-Islamiyyah in Strand, Western Cape, under the guidance of the late world-renowned scholar Shaykh Taha Karaan (Allah have mercy on him), where he taught.
Shaykh Irshaad received Ijaza from many luminaries of the Islamic world, including Shaykh Taha Karaan, Shaykh Muhammad Awama, Shaykh Muhammad Hasan Hitu, and Mawlana Abdul Hafeez Makki, among others.
He is the author of the text “The Musnad of Ahmad ibn Hanbal: A Hujjah or not?” He has been the Director of the Discover Islam Centre, and for six years, he has been the Khatib of Masjid Ar-Rashideen, Mowbray, Cape Town.
Shaykh Irshaad has fifteen years of teaching experience at some of the leading Islamic institutes in Cape Town. He is currently building an Islamic podcast, education, and media platform called ‘Isnad Academy’ and has completed his Master’s degree in the study of Islam at the University of Johannesburg. He has a keen interest in healthy Prophetic living and fitness.
