PEGI begins moving existing digital-only games with loot boxes up to a 16 rating
Existing digital-only games that include paid random items, such as loot boxes, are being re-rated PEGI 16 if they currently carry a PEGI 3, 7, or 12 rating. Read more
The PEGI ratings board has begun updating existing digital-only games with loot boxes to a 16 age rating. This change targets games that previously held PEGI 3, 7, or 12 ratings. Connor Hinde, a policy manager at the Games Rating Authority (GRA), announced this development on LinkedIn. The GRA is applying the updated criteria to a selection of digital games this week.
The new PEGI 16 rating is specifically for games offering paid random items, regardless of their previous rating method – Classic procedure or the International Age Rating Coalition (IARC) system. The GRA expects to roll out these changes progressively throughout October. The agency acknowledged that a significant number of ratings will change quickly and has directed publishers and developers with inquiries to their Helpdesk.
The Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) has stated it will not adopt the PEGI's age-rating changes, citing potential confusion for users.
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