Are you a game developer looking to get your game rated? Do you wonder how the rating process works and what it takes to get your game rated? Look no further! In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of game ratings and provide you with a step-by-step understanding of the process. From the different types of ratings to the criteria used by rating agencies, we will cover it all. Get ready to learn how to navigate the complex world of game ratings and get your game rated with ease.
What is game rating?
Importance of game ratings
Game ratings serve a crucial role in the gaming industry, providing valuable information to parents, protecting minors from potentially harmful content, and aiding in the regulation of the industry.
Helps parents make informed decisions about the games their children play
Parents are often faced with the challenge of determining whether a particular game is appropriate for their children. Game ratings provide them with an essential tool to make informed decisions, enabling them to assess the content and suitability of a game based on age-appropriate guidelines. This helps parents ensure that their children are not exposed to inappropriate or harmful content, allowing them to make educated choices about the games their children play.
Assists in the protection of minors from potentially harmful content
Game ratings play a crucial role in protecting minors from potentially harmful content in video games. By providing information on the level of violence, sexual content, and other mature themes, game ratings help parents and guardians make informed decisions about the games their children play. This helps to safeguard minors from exposure to content that may be inappropriate or harmful to their well-being, ensuring that they can enjoy their gaming experience in a safe and secure environment.
Aids in the regulation of the gaming industry
Game ratings also aid in the regulation of the gaming industry by providing a standardized system for rating games based on their content. This system helps to ensure that games are developed and marketed in a responsible manner, taking into account the needs and interests of players of all ages. By providing a framework for the development and distribution of games, game ratings contribute to the overall health and sustainability of the gaming industry, promoting responsible and ethical practices within the industry as a whole.
Types of game ratings
When it comes to game ratings, there are several organizations that provide ratings for games. These ratings help consumers and parents understand the content of a game and make informed decisions about whether it is appropriate for them. The following are the most common types of game ratings:
Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB)
The Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) is a self-regulatory organization that provides ratings for video games in the United States. The ESRB rating system includes six rating categories: Everyone, Everyone 10+, Teen, Mature, Adults Only, and Rating Pending. The ratings are based on the content of the game, including violence, sexual content, language, and drug and alcohol references. The ESRB also provides additional information about the content of the game in the form of a summary and a list of interactive elements.
Pan European Game Information (PEGI)
The Pan European Game Information (PEGI) is a rating system that is used in Europe. The PEGI rating system includes seven rating categories: PEGI 3, PEGI 7, PEGI 12, PEGI 16, PEGI 18, and PEGI 3+. The ratings are based on the content of the game, including violence, sexual content, and drug and alcohol references. The PEGI also provides additional information about the content of the game in the form of a summary and a list of interactive elements.
International Age Rating System (IARS)
The International Age Rating System (IARS) is a rating system that is used in many countries around the world. The IARS rating system includes six rating categories: General Audiences, Teen, Mature, Adults Only, and Rating Pending. The ratings are based on the content of the game, including violence, sexual content, language, and drug and alcohol references. The IARS also provides additional information about the content of the game in the form of a summary and a list of interactive elements.
Overall, these game rating systems help companies understand the content of their games and ensure that they are appropriately rated for their intended audience. By complying with these rating systems, companies can ensure that their games are marketed and sold in a responsible and ethical manner.
How is a game rated?
Factors considered in game rating
Game rating is a process that involves evaluating a video game based on certain criteria to determine its suitability for a particular audience. The following are some of the factors that are considered when rating a game:
Violence
Violence is a common factor that is considered in game rating. Games that contain excessive violence, including blood, gore, and violent acts, may be rated as mature or adults only. The level of violence in a game is evaluated based on the type of violence, its frequency, and its impact on the player.
Sexual content
Sexual content is another factor that is considered in game rating. Games that contain explicit sexual content, including nudity, sexual acts, and sexually suggestive themes, may be rated as mature or adults only. The level of sexual content in a game is evaluated based on the type of content, its frequency, and its impact on the player.
Language
Language is also a factor that is considered in game rating. Games that contain strong language, including profanity, hate speech, and other offensive language, may be rated as mature or adults only. The level of language in a game is evaluated based on the type of language, its frequency, and its impact on the player.
Themes
Themes are another factor that is considered in game rating. Games that contain mature themes, including drug use, alcohol abuse, and other controversial topics, may be rated as mature or adults only. The level of mature themes in a game is evaluated based on the type of theme, its frequency, and its impact on the player.
Commerce
Commerce is the final factor that is considered in game rating. Games that contain real-money gambling, including slot machines, roulette, and other forms of gambling, may be rated as mature or adults only. The level of commerce in a game is evaluated based on the type of commerce, its frequency, and its impact on the player.
In conclusion, game rating is a complex process that involves evaluating a video game based on several factors to determine its suitability for a particular audience. The factors that are considered in game rating include violence, sexual content, language, themes, and commerce. Understanding these factors is essential for companies that develop and publish video games.
Rating process for different organizations
Game ratings are a crucial aspect of the gaming industry, providing players with essential information about the content of a game. There are several organizations that are responsible for rating games, each with their own set of criteria and guidelines. In this section, we will take a closer look at the rating process for three prominent organizations: the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), the Pan European Game Information (PEGI), and the International Age Rating System (IARS).
The ESRB is a self-regulatory organization that rates video games in the United States. The organization was established in 1994 by the Entertainment Software Association (ESA) and is responsible for assigning age ratings and content descriptors to video games. The ESRB rating system includes six age categories: Early Childhood (EC), Everyone, Teen, Mature, Adults Only, and Rating Pending. In addition to the age ratings, the ESRB also provides content descriptors to inform players about the presence of specific content in a game, such as violence, sexual content, and strong language.
The ESRB’s rating process involves a thorough review of a game’s content by a team of trained raters who assess the game based on its content, themes, and language. The raters consider factors such as violence, sexual content, strong language, and other mature themes, as well as the overall impact of the game’s content on the player. The ESRB also considers feedback from developers, publishers, and the public during the rating process.
The PEGI is a European organization that provides age ratings for video games. The organization was established in 2003 and is funded by the Interactive Software Federation of Europe (ISFE). The PEGI rating system includes seven age categories: 3+, 7+, 12+, 16+, 18+, and Rating Pending. The PEGI rating process is similar to the ESRB’s process, with a team of trained raters assessing the game’s content and providing an age rating based on the level of violence, sexual content, and other mature themes.
The PEGI also considers feedback from developers, publishers, and the public during the rating process. The organization’s guidelines take into account cultural differences across Europe, and the PEGI provides additional information to parents and players about the content of a game, including a detailed description of the game’s content and a list of user reviews.
The IARS is a global organization that provides age ratings for video games. The organization was established in 2013 and is funded by the Interactive Software Association (ISA). The IARS rating system includes five age categories: 3+, 7+, 12+, 16+, and 18+. The IARS rating process is similar to the ESRB’s and PEGI’s processes, with a team of trained raters assessing the game’s content and providing an age rating based on the level of violence, sexual content, and other mature themes.
The IARS also considers feedback from developers, publishers, and the public during the rating process. The organization’s guidelines take into account cultural differences across the world, and the IARS provides additional information to parents and players about the content of a game, including a detailed description of the game’s content and a list of user reviews.
In conclusion, the rating process for different organizations varies slightly, but they all share a common goal of providing players with essential information about the content of a game. Companies should be aware of the different rating systems and the criteria used by each organization to ensure that their games are rated appropriately and accurately.
Tips for companies to get their games rated
Submitting a game for rating
Preparing the necessary documentation
When submitting a game for rating, it is important for companies to prepare the necessary documentation. This documentation may include information about the game’s content, target audience, and any special features or mechanics. Companies should ensure that all documentation is accurate and up-to-date, as inaccurate or incomplete information can lead to delays in the rating process.
Submitting the game to the appropriate rating organization
After preparing the necessary documentation, companies must submit their game to the appropriate rating organization. There are several rating organizations to choose from, each with their own set of guidelines and requirements. For example, the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) is a popular rating organization for video games in North America, while PEGI is a rating organization for video games in Europe. Companies should research and choose the most appropriate rating organization for their game, and ensure that they follow all guidelines and requirements for submission.
It is important for companies to note that the submission process can vary depending on the rating organization. Some organizations may require additional information or documentation, while others may have specific submission deadlines. Companies should carefully review the guidelines and requirements for the rating organization they have chosen, and ensure that they follow all instructions precisely to avoid any delays or issues with the rating process.
Understanding the rating criteria
As a company looking to get your game rated, it is important to understand the rating criteria used by the organization. This will help you ensure that your game meets the necessary standards and avoid any issues or concerns that may arise during the rating process. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Familiarize yourself with the rating criteria: Each organization that provides game ratings has its own set of criteria that it uses to evaluate games. It is important to familiarize yourself with these criteria so that you can ensure that your game meets the necessary standards.
- Address any issues or concerns: If your game does not meet the criteria, it is important to address any issues or concerns that may arise during the rating process. This may involve making changes to the game or providing additional information to the rating organization.
By understanding the rating criteria and addressing any issues or concerns, you can increase your chances of getting your game rated and ensure that it meets the necessary standards.
Communicating with the rating organization
Communication with the rating organization is crucial for a smooth and efficient game rating process. Companies should strive to keep open lines of communication with the rating organization at all times. This will ensure that any questions or concerns are addressed in a timely manner, which can help to prevent delays in the rating process.
Here are some tips for companies to effectively communicate with the rating organization:
- Establish a single point of contact: Companies should designate a single point of contact to communicate with the rating organization. This will ensure that all communication is streamlined and that there is no confusion regarding who to contact for information or updates.
- Be responsive: Companies should respond promptly to any requests for information or clarification from the rating organization. Delays in responding can cause delays in the rating process, so it is important to be as responsive as possible.
- Provide detailed information: Companies should provide as much detailed information as possible when submitting their games for rating. This will help the rating organization to better understand the game and its content, which can lead to a more accurate and efficient rating process.
- Be transparent: Companies should be transparent about the content of their games and any changes that are made during the development process. This will help to prevent any surprises or delays during the rating process.
By following these tips, companies can help to ensure that they have open lines of communication with the rating organization, which can help to streamline the game rating process and get their games rated more efficiently.
Complying with changes in rating criteria
Complying with changes in rating criteria is essential for companies to ensure that their games are rated correctly. Here are some tips for companies to comply with changes in rating criteria:
- Keeping up-to-date with any changes in rating criteria
- Companies should keep a close eye on any changes in rating criteria. This includes changes to the rating system, new categories added, or any changes to the rating rules. Companies should also pay attention to any changes in the content guidelines that may affect their game’s rating.
- Making necessary changes to the game to comply with new criteria
- If there are changes to the rating criteria, companies should make necessary changes to their game to comply with the new criteria. This may include making changes to the game’s content, language, or other elements that may affect the game’s rating. Companies should ensure that they are aware of the new criteria and take the necessary steps to comply with them.
- Submitting updated materials to the rating organization
- Companies should submit updated materials to the rating organization if they have made changes to their game. This includes updated trailers, screenshots, and other materials that may affect the game’s rating. The rating organization will review the updated materials and provide a new rating if necessary.
- Working with the rating organization to resolve any issues
- If there are any issues with the game’s rating, companies should work with the rating organization to resolve them. This may include making additional changes to the game or providing additional information to the rating organization. Companies should be open and transparent with the rating organization to ensure that the game is rated accurately.
Overall, complying with changes in rating criteria is crucial for companies to ensure that their games are rated correctly. By keeping up-to-date with any changes in rating criteria, making necessary changes to the game, submitting updated materials to the rating organization, and working with the rating organization to resolve any issues, companies can ensure that their games are rated accurately and appropriately.
FAQs
1. What is game rating?
Game rating is the process of evaluating a video game and assigning it a rating based on its content, including violence, sexuality, language, and other mature themes. The rating helps inform consumers about the suitability of the game for different age groups and provides guidance on the level of maturity required to play it.
2. Why is game rating important for a company?
Game rating is important for a company because it helps them ensure that their game meets the appropriate standards and regulations set by the relevant authorities. It also helps them market their game to the right audience, as a game with a higher rating may appeal to a different demographic than a game with a lower rating. Additionally, game rating can help a company avoid potential legal issues related to the content of their game.
3. Who is responsible for game rating?
Game rating is typically done by independent organizations or government agencies that specialize in video game content evaluation. These organizations have established guidelines and criteria for rating games, which they use to evaluate the content of each game and assign a rating. Some examples of game rating organizations include the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) in the United States and the Pan European Game Information (PEGI) in Europe.
4. How does a company get their game rated?
To get their game rated, a company typically submits their game to the relevant game rating organization along with any necessary documentation and materials. The rating organization then evaluates the game based on their established guidelines and criteria, and assigns a rating to the game. The company may also be required to make changes to the game to meet the requirements of the rating organization before the game can be released to the public.
5. What are the different game ratings?
Game ratings typically fall into several categories, including E for Everyone, T for Teen, M for Mature, and A for Adults Only. Each rating corresponds to a different level of mature content, with E being the least restrictive and A being the most restrictive. The specific guidelines and criteria for each rating vary depending on the rating organization and the jurisdiction in which the game is being released.
6. Can a company appeal a game rating?
If a company disagrees with the rating assigned to their game by the rating organization, they may be able to appeal the decision. The process for appealing a game rating varies depending on the organization and the jurisdiction, but typically involves submitting additional information or materials to support the company’s case. It’s important to note that appeals are not always successful, and the company may need to make significant changes to the game in order to meet the requirements of the rating organization.
7. How long does the game rating process take?
The length of the game rating process can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of the game, the volume of content to be evaluated, and the workload of the rating organization. In general, the process can take several weeks or even months to complete, and may involve multiple rounds of review and evaluation. It’s important for a company to plan accordingly and allow sufficient time for the rating process to be completed before the game’s release date.
