(GameSpot UK)
An age rating system has been put in place in Europe to ensure children aren't exposed to unsuitable content The ISFE announces plans for new voluntary age ratings and symbols for games across Europe. The Interactive Software Federation of Europe (IFSE) has today announced plans for a new pan-European system of age ratings and warning symbols for games in Europe. The voluntary system will include five age categories: aged three and over; seven and over; 12 and over; 16 and over, and 18 and over. The age ratings will not relate to the complexity of the games in any way, but are designed to ensure that children aren't exposed to content that might be unsuitable. In addition to the age ratings, a series of six symbols designed to warn parents about specific types of content will be introduced. The six symbols, of which only a maximum of two will appear on any one game, highlight game content that includes violence, sex, drugs, fear, discrimination, and bad language. 10 November 2002
QuickLinks Index