Video game age ratings play a key role in guiding players and parents toward suitable content. A recent study conducted by Skala analyzed 1,895 games to identify how different types of content influence their age classification. The research offers new insights into how violence, language, and sexual material contribute to the rating a game receives.
Violence and Its Impact on Ratings
The analysis found that stylized or less realistic violence rarely results in an M (Mature) rating. In most cases, games featuring such content are classified as T (Teen). The correlation is clear: the more exaggerated or cartoonish the violence, the lower the likelihood of a higher age rating. This suggests that rating boards consider the presentation of violence as heavily as the act itself when determining suitability for younger audiences.
Language Has a Stronger Influence Than Expected
Obscene or explicit language appears to have a greater effect on age ratings than violent content. According to the study, only 2% of games containing strong language fell into the T category, meaning the vast majority were rated M. This finding challenges common perceptions that violence is the primary driver of higher age ratings, highlighting instead that language can be a deciding factor for regulators and rating boards.
Sexual Content and the Adults-Only Category
Sexual content also plays a significant role in age classification, though its impact varies depending on explicitness. A small portion of the sample, 27 games, were classified as AO (Adults Only). These typically include games with explicit pornography, real-money gambling mechanics, or titles effectively restricted from distribution due to partner or platform policies. The recent controversy surrounding Horses, where the Epic Games Store flagged it as AO despite developer claims of an M rating, illustrates the complexities of assigning accurate ratings in such cases.
Implications for Developers and Players
Skala’s research highlights the nuanced factors behind video game ratings. Developers seeking broader audiences may need to consider not just violent content but also the use of language and sexual material. For players and parents, understanding these patterns can provide clearer guidance when selecting games for different age groups.
Source: Skala
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What factors determine a video game’s age rating?
Age ratings are typically influenced by the presence of violence, language, sexual content, and other mature themes. Rating boards assess both the content and its presentation style.
Why does language affect age ratings more than violence?
Data shows that explicit language often pushes games into the M category, while stylized or unrealistic violence usually results in a T rating. Boards appear to weigh language heavily when assessing suitability for teens.
What types of games receive an Adults-Only (AO) rating?
AO ratings are rare and usually apply to games with explicit pornography, real-money gambling, or content restricted from standard distribution.
How can players use age ratings to make informed choices?
Understanding what each rating represents—T for Teen, M for Mature, and AO for Adults Only—helps players and parents select games appropriate for specific age groups.
Does sexual content always result in a high age rating?
Not necessarily. The explicitness and context of sexual content are key factors. Highly explicit material may lead to an AO rating, while mild sexual themes often fall under M.
