PEGI Raises Age Ratings for Digital Games Featuring Loot Boxes to 16
- PEGI is increasing age ratings for digital games with loot boxes to PEGI 16.
- This new policy began rollout in October and affects existing games rated PEGI 3, 7, or 12.
- Notable games impacted include ES Sports FC and Zenless Zone Zero, with publishers encouraged to contact PEGI with questions.
PEGI, the European video game age rating authority, has officially started increasing the age ratings for digital games that include loot boxes, now set at PEGI 16. The implementation of this more stringent policy is set to unfold throughout October.
Connor Hinde of the Games Rating Authority announced the changes on LinkedIn, stating:
“Since June, newly submitted games have been assessed against an expanded set of criteria within the PEGI rating framework, including new criteria relating to interactive risks,” wrote Hinde. As the UK administrator of PEGI, the Games Rating Authority is now applying these updated criteria to select existing digital products.
“Existing digital-only games that are currently rated PEGI 3, 7, or 12 and feature paid random items, such as loot boxes, will have their age rating updated to PEGI 16 – Paid random items,” he added.
The update process began this week and is expected to continue throughout October. Hinde also encouraged publishers and developers to reach out to the PEGI helpdesk if they have any inquiries or concerns regarding the new guidelines.
Some notable games affected by this change include the ES Sports FC series, previously rated PEGI 3, and Zenless Zone Zero, a gacha action game from HoYoVerse, which has been elevated from PEGI 12 to PEGI 16 under the new rules. Monopoly Go currently retains a rating of 9+ on the Apple games store, but its status may change due to the inclusion of purchased randomized sticker packs and boxes.
The significance of this policy is substantial, as it may alert parents and potential players to concerns about the appropriateness of a game’s monetization practices. The ruling specifically pertains to digital-only titles, underscoring the need for parental vigilance in monitoring game content for children.
This adjustment follows PEGI’s earlier announcement in March, declaring their intent to address games incorporating loot boxes, similar microtransactions, addictive gameplay mechanics, and unmonitored online communication. The organization has been actively striving to align with contemporary gaming practices, and this latest rollout represents a significant step in that direction.
News Courtesy of Eurogamer
