PEGI Ratings for Mobile Games: Protecting Kids from Harmful Content

Why Age Ratings Are Essential for Video Games

Age ratings serve as a transparent indicator of the suitability of video game content for different age groups. They help parents make informed decisions about which games are appropriate for their children, ensuring that experiences are both entertaining and safe.

Types of Games That Use Age Ratings

Age ratings are applied to a vast array of games, including console, PC, and especially mobile games. From educational apps for preschoolers to complex games for teenagers, the PEGI rating system encompasses all genres and platforms, ensuring comprehensive coverage.

How Ratings Help Parents Make Informed Choices

By providing clear guidance on the content and complexity of games, PEGI ratings empower parents to select games that align with their children's maturity levels and values. This proactive approach aids in preventing exposure to inappropriate material and fosters a safer gaming environment.

What Is PEGI and Why It Matters for Mobile Games

PEGI, which stands for Pan-European Game Information, is the leading age rating system in Europe for video games, including mobile games. It offers a standardized method to categorize games based on their content, making it easier for consumers, especially parents, to make informed choices.

The History of the PEGI System

Established in 2003, the PEGI rating system was created to unify the diverse national systems across Europe into a single, consistent framework. Over the years, it has evolved to address the changing landscape of video game content, including the rise of mobile gaming.

How the PEGI Rating Process Works

The PEGI rating process involves a thorough evaluation of a game’s content by experts who assess factors like violence, language, and themes. Games are assigned a PEGI rating based on this assessment, ensuring that each title is appropriately classified before reaching the market.

Why Mobile Games Also Fall Under PEGI Classification

With the explosive growth of mobile gaming, PEGI recognized the need to include mobile games within its rating system. This inclusion ensures that mobile games, which are easily accessible to children, are subject to the same stringent content evaluations as traditional video games.

How PEGI Differs from ESRB

The ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board) is a North American video game age rating system used mainly in the United States and Canada. It informs consumers - especially parents - about the content and age suitability of games and apps. The key difference from PEGI lies in geography and classification details: ESRB targets the American market, while PEGI serves Europe. Although PEGI is more common in most European countries, understanding ESRB is useful when choosing international games that may carry only the American rating.

Understanding PEGI Age Ratings

The PEGI age rating system categorizes games into several age groups, each signifying the appropriate age for the game's content. Understanding these ratings is essential for parents aiming to safeguard their children from unsuitable content.

PEGI 3 and PEGI 7 – Games for Young Children

PEGI 3 and PEGI 7 are designed for young children, ensuring that the content is suitable for their developmental stage.

PEGI 3 & PEGI 7

Games rated PEGI 3 are appropriate for almost all ages, containing minimal or no violence and benign themes. PEGI 7 games may include mild violence but remain suitable for young children. Examples include educational games and simple puzzle games. PEGI 3 games and PEGI 7 games often feature bright colors, simple controls, and non-threatening themes, promoting learning and creativity in a safe environment.

PEGI 12 and PEGI 16 – Content for Teenagers

PEGI 12 and PEGI 16 ratings indicate content that may be more suitable for teenagers, addressing more complex themes and moderate levels of violence or language.

PEGI 12 & PEGI 16

PEGI 12 games might include more intense violence, mild bad language, or partial nudity, while PEGI 16 games can involve more graphic violence, strong language, and more mature themes. These ratings help parents decide if their teenagers are ready for such content. PEGI 12 logo, and PEGI 16 logo are commonly found in popular mobile games that balance engaging gameplay with appropriate content for older children.

PEGI 18 – Adult-Only Games

PEGI 18 is the highest rating, signifying that games are intended for adults only due to explicit content, including severe violence, sexual content, and strong language. These games are strictly regulated to prevent access by minors.

PEGI Content Descriptors

In addition to age ratings, PEGI provides content descriptors that offer detailed information about specific elements within a game. These descriptors include:

• Violence: Indicates the level and type of violence present.

• Bad Language: Notes the presence of strong language or profanity.

• Sexual Content: Highlights any sexual themes or imagery.

• Fear: Identifies content that may be frightening or disturbing.

• Drugs: Points out the depiction of drug use.

• Gambling: Indicates the presence of gambling elements.

• Discrimination: Notes any discriminatory language or behavior.

• In-Game Purchases: Alerts to the availability of microtransactions within the game.

These content descriptors assist parents in understanding the specific aspects of a game that may be concerning, beyond the general age rating.

How to Check a Game’s PEGI Rating on Mobile

Check a mobile game’s rating before downloading to ensure it’s appropriate for your child. Both major app stores provide this information clearly.

Where to Find the Rating in Google Play Store

In the Google Play Store, the rating is typically displayed under the game’s title or within the app’s description section. Parents can also visit the game's detail page and scroll down to the "Content" section to find comprehensive information about its PEGI rating and content descriptors.

How to Check the Age Category in Apple App Store (iOS)

On the Apple App Store, the rating is visible beneath the game’s title and alongside the age rating. Additionally, tapping on the "Information" section of the app listing reveals detailed age categories and content descriptions, helping parents assess suitability.

Why Reading the Description and Reviews Matters Before Downloading

Beyond checking the PEGI rating, reading the game’s description and user reviews provides deeper insights into the game's content and player experiences. Parents can identify any additional concerns, such as intrusive ads or problematic in-game behavior, ensuring a well-rounded evaluation before allowing their child to download the game.

Key Risks of Mobile Games for Children

While mobile games can be a source of entertainment and learning, they also pose several risks that parents must be aware of to protect their children effectively.

Inappropriate Content

Exposure to inappropriate content can have adverse effects on a child's development. Games with excessive violence, strong language, or sexual themes can influence behavior and perceptions in negative ways.

Microtransactions and In-Game Purchases

Many mobile games incorporate microtransactions, allowing players to purchase virtual items or advantages. This can lead to unexpected expenses and instill the notion that spending money is necessary for success within the game.

Online Chat and Cyberbullying

Games with online multiplayer features often include chat functions, which can expose children to cyberbullying, inappropriate language, and unwanted interactions with strangers. Monitoring these interactions is essential for maintaining a safe gaming environment.

Ads and External Links

Advertisements within games can sometimes lead to inappropriate content or introduce children to misleading external links, posing both security and safety risks.

Setting Up Parental Controls on a Smartphone with Kroha

Implementing parental controls is a proactive step in safeguarding your child’s gaming experience. The Kroha app offers robust features to manage and monitor your child's mobile game usage effectively.

What the Kroha App Is and Its Benefits

Kroha is a comprehensive parental control app designed to help parents manage their children's smartphone usage. It offers features such as app blocking, screen time control, and real-time monitoring, ensuring a balanced and safe digital experience for children.

How to Install Kroha on Android and iOS

Installing Kroha is straightforward on both Android and iOS devices:

• Download the App: Visit the Google Play Store or Apple App Store and search for "Kroha".
• Install and Set Up: Follow the on-screen instructions to install the app. Create a parent account and link your child's device.
• Configure Settings: Customize settings based on your child’s age and gaming habits.

App Blocking Features

Kroha provides advanced app blocking features to prevent access to unwanted games and applications.

Full Blocking of Unwanted Games and Apps

Parents can selectively block specific games or apps entirely, ensuring that children cannot access content deemed inappropriate.

Scheduled Blocking

Kroha allows parents to set schedules that block access to games and apps during designated times, such as during school hours or bedtime, promoting healthy screen time habits.

Practical Example: A parent can use Kroha to block all gaming apps from 8 PM to 7 AM, ensuring their child gets adequate sleep without the distraction of mobile games.

Combining PEGI Ratings with Parental Controls for Maximum Safety

For optimal protection, parents should integrate PEGI ratings with robust parental controls. This combination ensures that children are not only accessing age-appropriate content but are also shielded from potential online risks.

• Choosing Games Based on Ratings

Select games that align with your child's age and maturity level by referring to their PEGI rating. This ensures that the content they engage with is suitable and supportive of their development.

• Checking Safety Settings Before Installation

Before downloading a game, review its safety settings. Ensure that privacy controls are in place and that the game adheres to the PEGI content descriptors suitable for your child.

• Regularly Monitoring Games and Activity

Consistently monitor your child's gaming activities to stay informed about the games they play and the interactions they have online. Regular checks help in identifying and addressing any emerging issues promptly.

Top Safe Mobile Games for Kids (PEGI-Approved)

Choosing safe and engaging games is essential for your child's gaming experience. Here are some PEGI-approved mobile games popular among children and youth in Europe.

Games for Preschoolers

• ABC Kids – Tracing & Phonics: An educational game that helps preschoolers learn letters and sounds through interactive tracing activities.

• Toca Builders: Encourages creativity and problem-solving as young children build and explore virtual worlds.

Games for Younger Schoolchildren

• Minecraft: With its PEGI 7 rating, Minecraft fosters creativity and collaboration as children build and explore vast virtual landscapes.

• Fruit Ninja: A fun and simple game where players slice fruits while avoiding bombs, suitable for younger children under PEGI 7.

Games for Teenagers

• Clash of Clans: Rated PEGI 12, this strategy game involves building villages, forming clans, and battling other players, promoting strategic thinking.

• Fortnite: With a PEGI 12 rating, Fortnite combines action and strategy, allowing teenagers to engage in competitive gameplay while connecting with friends.

Tips for Parents

Educating and communicating with your child about their gaming habits is as important as setting up technical controls. Here are some effective strategies:

• Talk to Your Child About the Games They Play

Engage in open conversations about the games your child enjoys. Understanding their interests helps you guide them towards positive gaming experiences.

• Explain the Meaning of Age Ratings

Educate your child about the significance of PEGI ratings and why certain games are suited to specific age groups. This fosters their awareness and responsibility in game selection.

• Use Games as a Tool for Learning and Development

Leverage the educational potential of age-appropriate games to support your child’s learning and development. Choose games that enhance skills such as problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking.

Conclusion

The PEGI rating system serves as the first line of defense in safeguarding children from harmful content in mobile games. By understanding and utilizing PEGI age ratings, combined with effective parental controls like the Kroha app, parents can create a secure digital environment for their children. In the digital age, proactive digital parenting is essential to ensure that gaming remains a positive and enriching experience for young minds.