Video
game ratings carry one of seven logos showing age recommendations:
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EC
(Early Childhood) - age 3+ |
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KA
(Kids to Adult) - age 6+: Minimal violence, slapstick
comedy, some crude language. |
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E
(Everyone) - As of January 1998, the new "Everyone"
designation replaced the "Kids to Adults" rating. |
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T
(Teens) - age 13+: Violence, profanity, mild sexual themes |
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M
(Mature) - age 17+: More intense violence, profanity,
mature sexual themes |
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A
(Adult Only) - Adults only: due to graphic violence
and sexual themes, not for persons under 18. |
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RP
(Rating Pending) - Product has been submitted to the
ESRB and is awaiting final rating. |
On June
26, 2003, the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) revised
its rating system by adding four new content descriptors and
requiring more visible descriptive labels on game packages.
The four new content descriptors identify different kinds
of violence in video games.
Cartoon
violence features "violent actions involving cartoon-like
characters."
Fantasy
violence portrays "human or non-human characters
easily distinguishable from real life."
Intense
violence shows "graphic and realistic-looking depictions
of physical conflict."
Sexual
violence warns of "depictions of rape or other violent
sexual acts."
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