- The PEGI system classifies the video games in Europe based on age recommendation and content.
- ESRB operates in North America and has a similar categorization with specific labels.
- Both systems include detailed content descriptors such as violence, drugs and foul language.
- ESRB interactive elements inform about in-game purchases and online features.
When it comes to video games, age ratings are a crucial aspect that helps players and their families understand what kind of content a title offers before purchasing it. In Europe and much of the world, two main systems are used to rate video games: PEGI (Pan European Game Information) and ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board) . Both rating systems have specific criteria that determine the recommended age and the elements present in the games.
If you've ever wondered what these codes mean and how they apply in the video game industry, this article will explain it to you in detail. From how they work to each of their categories and labels, discover everything you need to know about these regulations.
What is the PEGI system?
PEGI (Pan European Game Information) is the age rating system used in most of Europe. It was implemented in 2003 with the aim of unifying the various existing national systems and providing standardized guidance for consumers.
This system evaluates the content of video games and classifies them according to their suitability for different age groups. Classification is voluntary for developers, but many physical and digital stores require games to have this certification before they can be sold.
PEGI age categories
PEGI classifies video games into different categories based on the recommended age of the audience. These are:
- PEGI 3: Suitable for all ages. No violence or inappropriate language.
- PEGI 7: May include scenes or sounds that may be mildly disturbing to young children.
- PEGI 12: May contain mild violence toward fantasy characters, mild foul language, or sexual innuendo.
- PEGI 16: Includes realistic violence, drug references or nudity scenes without explicit content.
- PEGI 18: Extreme content with brutal violence, illegal drug use and explicit sexual depictions.
PEGI content descriptors
Along with the age rating, PEGI includes a series of content descriptors that provide information about the elements present in the game. These descriptors include:
- Violence: Indicates the presence of fights, blood or other forms of aggression.
- Foul language: Warns against the use of swear words or offensive expressions.
- Fear or terror: It indicates the presence of sequences that may scare the little ones.
- Games of chance: Applies to titles that include gambling mechanics, lotteries, or loot boxes.
- Gender: Indicates the presence of nudity, erotic content or sexual relations.
- Drugs: Warning about references or consumption of illegal substances in the game.
- Discrimination: Indicates content that may promote stereotypes or discriminatory behavior.
- In-game purchases: Warns about the possibility of purchasing additional content with real money.
How does the ESRB system work?
Unlike PEGI, the ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board) is the system used in the United States, Canada, and some Latin American countries. It was created in 1994 in response to growing concerns about violent and sexual content in video games.
The ESRB system is similar to PEGI, but with some key differences. In addition to age ratings , it provides content descriptors and interactive elements to better inform consumers.
ESRB Age Categories
- Everyone (E): For all ages.
- Everyone 10+ (E10+): Suitable for children over 10 years old.
- Teen (T): Recommended for teenagers over 13 years old.
- Mature (M): Games aimed at people over 17 years of age.
- Adults Only (AO): Exclusive content for adults (over 18 years old).
- Rating Pending (RP): Games still in the classification process.
ESRB Content Descriptors
The games reviewed by the ESRB include content descriptors that report on elements such as violence, strong language, drug use, and sexual content. Some of the most common tags are:
- Fantasy violence: Non-realistic depictions of fights or combat.
- Strong language: Use of offensive words.
- Sexual content: Erotic innuendos or scenes.
- Drugs: Presence of illegal substances or references to consumption.
Interactive Elements on ESRB
In addition to ratings and content descriptors, the ESRB introduces a special category called “Interactive Elements ,” which includes:
- In-game purchases: Indicates that the title offers additional content for a fee.
- User interaction: Games with functionalities multiplayer online.
- Unlimited internet access: Titles that can connect players to external content.
Understanding PEGI and ESRB ratings is crucial for choosing age-appropriate video games. These labels not only make purchasing decisions easier but also help prevent access to inappropriate content for minors. Whether in Europe or America, these systems offer essential guidance for parents and gamers alike.
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