Are you a gamer looking to purchase a new game but unsure about its content? Or are you a parent trying to make informed decisions about which games are appropriate for your children? In both cases, understanding the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) game ratings is essential. ESRB is a non-profit organization that assigns age and content ratings to video games based on their content. These ratings help consumers make informed choices about the games they play or buy. In this guide, we will take a closer look at ESRB game ratings and how to interpret them.
Introduction to ESRB Ratings
ESRB was established in 1994 as a response to concerns over violent and mature content in video games. It was created by the Interactive Digital Software Association (now known as the Entertainment Software Association), a trade association representing the video game industry. The goal of ESRB is to provide parents and consumers with information about the content of video games, similar to movie ratings provided by the Motion Picture Association of America.
The ESRB rating system has evolved over the years to keep up with the changing landscape of the gaming industry. It now includes categories for physical and digital games, mobile apps, and online games. ESRB also offers resources for parents and educators, such as parental control tools and educational materials about responsible gaming.
ESRB Rating Categories
ESRB has six rating categories for games:
Early Childhood (EC)
Games with an Early Childhood rating are suitable for children ages 3 and up. These games may contain minimal cartoon, fantasy, or mild violence.
Everyone (E)
Games rated Everyone are suitable for all ages. They may contain minimal violence, some simulated gambling, and infrequent use of mild language.
Everyone 10+ (E10+)
This rating is for games suitable for children ages 10 and up. They may contain more cartoon, fantasy, or mild violence than games rated E, and mild language.
Teen (T)
Games with a Teen rating are suitable for ages 13 and up. They may contain violence, suggestive themes, crude humor, minimal blood, simulated gambling, and infrequent use of strong language.
Mature (M)
Games with a Mature rating are suitable for ages 17 and up. These games may contain intense violence, blood and gore, sexual content, and strong language.
Adults Only (AO)
Games with an Adults Only rating are meant for adults 18 and up. They may contain graphic sexual content and/or prolonged scenes of intense violence.
Rating Symbols and Content Descriptors
ESRB uses symbols to indicate the age rating and content descriptors to describe specific elements in a game. Here is a table of the symbols and their corresponding ratings:
| Symbol | Rating |
|---|---|
| EC for Early Childhood | Games for ages 3 and up |
| E for Everyone | Games suitable for all ages |
| E10+ for Everyone 10+ | Games suitable for ages 10 and up |
| T for Teen | Games suitable for ages 13 and up |
| M for Mature | Games suitable for ages 17 and up |
| AO for Adults Only | Games suitable for ages 18 and up |
Content descriptors are short phrases that describe specific content in a game. Some common descriptors include:
- Mild Violence: Scenes involving aggressive conflict but without bloodshed.
- Cartoon Violence: Scenes where characters engage in violent acts, but the actions are unrealistic and there is no blood or gore.
- Blood and Gore: Scenes with realistic-looking blood and/or dismemberment.
- Sexual Themes: References or depictions of sexual behavior or imagery.
- Strong Language: Use of profanity or derogatory language.
- Use of Alcohol: Scenes showing characters consuming alcoholic beverages.
- Simulated Gambling: Games that simulate gambling activities.
- Use of Drugs: Scenes depicting drug or substance use.
These descriptors help consumers get a better understanding of the game’s content and make an informed decision about whether it is appropriate for them or their children.
ESRB Rating Process
ESRB has a thorough and transparent rating process to ensure that games receive accurate and consistent ratings. Here is a breakdown of the steps involved:
Step 1: Self-Disclosure by Game Developers
Game developers are required to fill out a detailed questionnaire for every game they submit for ESRB rating. This questionnaire covers various aspects of the game, including violence, sexual content, language, and gambling.
Step 2: Review and Verification
ESRB reviews the questionnaire submitted by game developers and conducts a playthrough of the game to verify the accuracy of the information provided. They also look at marketing materials and online content related to the game.
Step 3: Rating Assignment
Based on the review and verification process, ESRB assigns a preliminary rating for the game. If any additional information is revealed during the review process, the rating may be adjusted.
Step 4: Advertising Review
ESRB also reviews all marketing materials for the game, such as trailers and advertisements, to ensure they accurately reflect the assigned rating.
Step 5: Final Rating Assignment
After the review and advertising process, ESRB makes a final rating assignment for the game.
Understanding ESRB for Consumers
As a consumer, understanding ESRB game ratings is crucial when making decisions about which games to play or purchase. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Take into account both the age rating and content descriptors. While the age rating gives a general indication of the game’s suitability, the content descriptors provide more specific details about what kind of content is included.
- Use the ESRB website to search for specific games and get detailed information about their ratings and content descriptors.
- Check the back of physical game cases and read the rating information provided. You can also find the same information on digital storefronts before purchasing a game.
- Take advantage of parental control tools offered by consoles and devices to restrict access to certain games based on their ratings.
- Stay informed about new games and their ratings, as well as any updates or changes made to existing ratings.
It is also essential to note that ESRB ratings are not meant to be a substitute for parental involvement in their children’s gaming habits. Parents should still monitor the games their children play and have discussions about appropriate content and responsible gaming practices.
Conclusion
ESRB game ratings are a valuable resource for consumers when it comes to making informed choices about the video games they play or purchase. Through a transparent and thorough rating process, ESRB provides accurate and consistent ratings for games, along with content descriptors that give more specific details about the game’s content. It is essential to understand and use these ratings as a guide to ensure an enjoyable and age-appropriate gaming experience.
