There are so many different gaming systems out there, with old school games, and new, digital masterpieces that are sure to shock and awe the player. As a parent you are faced with the choice of which system, X-box or PS3? And, more importantly which games to choose? There are games that are fighting games, there are mission games, there are brain games. More important than the type of game is the video game ratings. As a parent it is important to understand what the game ratings mean so that you choose games that are age and content appropriate for your child.
Here is a tool to look up ratings on specific video games. An explanation of the ratings follows below the tool.
The following is a look at the ratings, and what they mean.
EARLY CHILDHOOD
Titles rated EC are video games that are appropriate for almost any age group. It is said that the content is suitable for ages three and above, and parents would not find anything in such games to be inappropriate.
EVERYONE
Titles rated E are considered to have content appropriate for ages 6 and older. The things that rate it so include mild violence, or infrequent use of mild language. There might be cartoon or fantasy characters.
EVERYONE 10+
Titles rated E10+ are appropriate for ages 10 and older. The content may include cartoons, mild violence, fantasy, mild language, or minimally suggestive themes. A parent may want to view what is included before allowing a child under age ten to use a game with this rating.
TEEN
Titles rated T are appropriate for age 13 and older. Video games with this rating may contain violence, suggestive themes, crude humor, minimal blood, simulated gambling, or infrequent use of strong language. It is content that is mostly suited for teens, and not for younger ages.
MATURE
Titles rated M have content appropriate for ages 17 and older. These video games may contain intense violence, blood and gore, sexual content and strong language.
ADULTS ONLY
Titles rated AO are for only adults, age 18 years or older. These games include similar content to that which is in an R rated movie. It is going to have some prolonged violence, often more intense than in the lesser ratings. It will going to have some graphic sexual content or nudity. It will also have some strong language.
RATING PENDING
Titles listed as RP simply mean they have not been given a rating yet. You will not see a video game on the shelf with this rating, but may see this in games that are going to be coming out.
Video games are a fun way for kids to pass the time, and they are also able to learn much from the games. This is why you need to be careful about the ratings of the games which you allow your child to play, as they may be learning things you do not want to learn.
