Video Game Ratings: What Do They Mean?

Just when we've gotten used to the ratings on TV, along comes a new set for video games.

Originally, games weren't rated, but as parents and schools became more concerned with the content of some games, a rating system was developed and put in place. It is now on nearly all video games sold commercially, and can be a great help to parents and educators.

The Entertainment Software Rating Board, or ESRB, assigns these ratings, which are similar to those on movies and television, and thus easy to understand. They are black and white, with a large black letter or letters in the center white square denoting the rating.

The ESRB rates games and other software, using much of the same markers as motion pictures or television. Factors that influence a game's final rating include: the appearance and/or use of drugs, tobacco and alcohol; images of blood; images of blood and gore; animated images of blood; cartoon violence between cartoon characters; fantasy violence; gambling; mature bathroom humor; profanity; partial, full, graphic or prolonged nudity; sexual content; lyrics and more. Even educational value is rated. These additional descriptors will be printed on the box to further educate the buyer on the type of game they're considering.

Early Childhood is suitable for ages three and older. There's no material that parents would find inappropriate.

Everyone may be suitable for ages 6 and over, but can contain mild violence, comic mischief and/or mild language.

Teen games may contain violence, mild to strong language and suggestive themes. They may be suitable for users 13 years of age and older.

Mature games should be reserved for people 17 and older. They can contain anything from mature sexual themes to intense violence to strong language.

Adults Only sounds like what it is, for those ages 18 and older. They can contain graphic images of sex and violence, graphic lyrics, and more.

Rating Pending is one most people won't see often, as it is a game or program that has been submitted to the ERSB and a rating is pending.

It's important to note that the ratings suggest that a game or program MAY be suitable for a certain age and over. This is meant to be a guideline. Therefore, what may be acceptable to the parents of one 6-year-old may not be to another. But the rating system is at least helpful in guiding parents in the right direction.