The UK uses the Pan European Game Information (PEGI) rating system to classify video games based on their content. This system applies to all games sold in the UK, including those for the PlayStation 4 (PS4). Understanding the PEGI rating is crucial for parents and guardians to make informed decisions about which games are appropriate for children and young people.
PEGI ratings are displayed prominently on the game box and in online stores. They use a combination of age recommendations and content descriptors to indicate the suitability of a game. Let's delve into the details:
What Do the Different PEGI Ratings Mean?
The core PEGI age ratings are:
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PEGI 3: Suitable for ages 3 and above. These games typically contain very mild violence or frightening scenes.
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PEGI 7: Suitable for ages 7 and above. May contain more violence, frightening scenes, or discriminatory language than PEGI 3.
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PEGI 12: Suitable for ages 12 and above. May contain more violence, bad language, and/or sexual innuendo than PEGI 7.
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PEGI 16: Suitable for ages 16 and above. May contain strong violence, strong language, sexual content, and/or drug references.
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PEGI 18: Suitable for ages 18 and above. Contains adult content such as explicit violence, strong sexual content, and/or drug use.
Beyond the Age Rating: Understanding Content Descriptors
In addition to the age rating, PEGI uses content descriptors to provide more specific information about the game's content. These descriptors can include:
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Violence: Indicates the level and nature of violence depicted.
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Language: Specifies the level and type of bad language used.
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Fear: Indicates the presence of frightening or intense scenes.
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Sex: Indicates the presence of sexual content.
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Drugs: Indicates the presence of drug use or references.
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Discrimination: Indicates the presence of discriminatory content.
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Gambling: Indicates the presence of gambling or games of chance.
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Online: Indicates the game contains online features.
These descriptors help parents understand the specific types of content they might find concerning and allows them to make informed decisions about which games are suitable for their children.
How to Find the PEGI Rating on a PS4 Game
The PEGI rating is clearly displayed on the game's packaging. You'll also find it on the PlayStation Store when browsing or searching for games. Look for the PEGI logo and the associated age rating and content descriptors.
Where Can I Find More Information About PEGI Ratings?
For comprehensive details on the PEGI rating system and to learn more about specific ratings and content descriptors, visit the official PEGI website.
What if a Game Doesn't Have a PEGI Rating?
If a game is sold in the UK and lacks a PEGI rating, it is likely either non-compliant or hasn't been properly assessed. It's best to avoid such games as they may contain inappropriate content for certain age groups.
By understanding the PEGI rating system and its content descriptors, you can ensure that you choose age-appropriate games for yourself or your children when purchasing PS4 games or other games in the UK. Remember to always check the rating before purchasing or letting a child play a particular game.
