The PEGI rating system, which at present evaluates all games released throughout the UK and Europe, has been expanded to include ratings for online games playable via consoles, PCs and mobiles.

 

As reported last month, the new PEGI Online scheme, which has been in development for 18 months, is a joint initiative from the Interactive Software Federation of Europe (ISFE) and the European Commission, and focuses specifically on the prevention of dangers inherent in online gaming where children can easily fall prey to unsuitable content and the influence of strangers.

 

It will be accompanied by the new PEGI Online label that license holders will display on packaging and will include a dedicated multi-language website explaining the scheme in detail as well as offering advice for safer gaming.

 

Viviane Reding, Europe’s Commissioner for education and culture, addressed the Expert Conference 2007 in Brussels where the initiative was rolled out, on the importance of the new ratings system.

 

“The protection of children as users of online technologies is of great importance for the Commission.

 

“The system is aimed at ensuring input not only by industry but also by all other stakeholders - including regulators, child welfare NGOs and child psychology experts who were consulted in the design of the system and are represented in the structure set up to run PEGI and PEGI Online.

 

“This is a good example of an industry initiative developed in co-operation with other stakeholders which allows a rapid and flexible solution to the problems of new technologies and greater safety for our children,” she said.

 

Paul Jackson, director general of ELSPA, added the UK’s trade body’s support to the project.

 

“We are fully behind the new PEGI Online system, which we hope will reassure parents that games which are playable online are being marketed responsibly by our members. The PEGI system has proved a great success since it started five years ago. Since April 2003 no less than 7,000 games have been rated - it’s all about ensuring the right games get into hands of the right gamers.”

 

Microsoft Entertainment Products Division boss Chris Lewis added, “At Microsoft we actively look for ways to work with partners to empower parents – and provide great digital entertainment for consumers. We’re really happy to be able to sign up to PEGI Online, extending the information, education and protection PEGI ratings give to gamers into the online space with Xbox Live and Games For Windows Live.”