Parenting

Playing By The Ratings

Posted: 1/7/2012

Before buying a video game for younger players, always check the rating.

(NAPSI)—Buying a video game the whole family can enjoy is not just fun and games. You may want to do your homework.

Whether you’re buying a game as a gift or for your own family to enjoy, it’s important to make informed decisions about which games are most suitable for younger players.

Here are some tips to help:

• Check the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) rating on the front of every box to gauge age appropriateness, from E for Everyone to M for Mature. And don’t forget to look at the content descriptors and other information on the back.

• Most games have rating summaries available at ESRB.org that provide further details and examples of the game’s content.

Download the free mobile app from ESRB to check a game’s rating summary right from the store.

• Visit game review websites, which often have gameplay videos to help parents get a better feel for the content.

• Ask game store employees or other parents for recommendations.