As a Dungeon Master, after years of avoidable mishaps, I've learned to make these decisions based on player buy-in and the consensus of consent. If the players want me to run a nasty game for them, I can run it as nasty as they want it.
With the occasional exception, I prefer my games in the Soft R range with violence and criminality and allusions to sexuality. Even the Good PCs are generally expected to murder and loot, slavers and evil wizards are frequent enemies, but the actual details of their atrocities are glossed over.
I want to say I'm willing to run a lighter and softer game if my players want it... but I'm not actually sure I'm capable. I can avoid most peoples' triggers, but one way or another the ugly comes out.
With the occasional exception, I prefer my games in the Soft R range with violence and criminality and allusions to sexuality. Even the Good PCs are generally expected to murder and loot, slavers and evil wizards are frequent enemies, but the actual details of their atrocities are glossed over.
I want to say I'm willing to run a lighter and softer game if my players want it... but I'm not actually sure I'm capable. I can avoid most peoples' triggers, but one way or another the ugly comes out.