CHECK THE RATING
That's right. Almost every computer and video game has a rating symbol and a content descriptor
right on the box.
WHAT DO THE RATINGS TELL YOU?
The RATINGS SYMBOL tells you what age group the game is appropriate for.
The CONTENT DESCRIPTOR tells you whether the game contains violence, sexual themes or
other areas of concern.
WHY USE A RATING SYSTEM?
The rating system is an unbiased, standardized way to help you determine whether a game is
appropriate for your child. Ratings are determined by the
Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB).
ABOUT THE RATINGS
The ESRB rating system is unique because it provides information about both age-appropriateness
AND content elements that may be of interest or concern. The ratings and content descriptors are
designed to help parents exercise control over the computer and video games their children play.
HOW DOES THE ESRB SYSTEM WORK?
Games and other interactive products (such as internet websites, online games, and interactive
chat) are each reviewed by three seperate raters. These raters are typical consumers who come
from all walks of life and have undergone extensive training by the ESRB. They review each product
frame by frame and then assign a rating and appropriate content descriptors. When the raters
finish their review, their results are tabulated by computer and reviewed by an ESRB staff member
to determine the products final rating.
HOW EFFECTIVE IS THE RATING SYSTEM?
The ESRB rating system has been praised by Congress, leading child advocacy organizations, and
national retailers. One leading Member of Congress called ESRB ratings "the most comprehensive
system of any entertainment medium in this country".
