Evaluating computer games
The computer games industry provides classification identifiers that are designed to inform parents and teachers as to the appropriateness of computer games for children. This is called the Pan-European Game Information (PEGI) age rating system and it was established in 2003 to help European adults make informed decisions on buying computer games.
Designed to ensure that minors are not exposed to games that are unsuitable for their particular age group, the system is supported by the major console manufacturers (including PlayStation, Xbox and Nintendo) as well as by publishers and developers of interactive games throughout Europe.
The age rating system has been developed by the Interactive Software Federation of Europe (ISFE) and has the support of the European Commission, who considers the system to be a model of European harmonisation for the protection of children.
There are two systems of ratings within PEGI:
- Indicator of content
Recommended age-groups
The Consolarium recommends that these ratings are useful indicators of appropriateness. However, some games on the cusp of age ratings such as the 12+ may require the teacher and the school to make judgements about appropriateness for use that can then be communicated to parents.