An appropriate videogame for each age
OFLC
Be aware of the fact that for each game you can easily know whether it is suitable for your kids thanks to OFLC’s age rating system.
The Classification board helps Australian parents make informed decisions on buying interactive games. These ratings are enforced by the Australian government using the same system they use for movies and DVDs. Designed to ensure that minors are not exposed to games that are unsuitable for their particular age group, the system is supported by the major console manufacturers as well as by publishers of interactive games such as Ubisoft.
Each rating is clearly visible on the game packaging and all the promotional items. If further information is required about the game’s content, an advisory will describe the elements of the game that required it to receive that rating. This way you can decide if these gameplay elements effect your decision in allowing your kids to purchase or play these games.
These logos indicate from which age a game can be played based on strict criteria which are bad language, themes, violence, the impact of horror or fantasy, drugs, sex and gambling.
New Zealand’s ratings differ slightly to Australia’s. Any product rated M or under can bear the Australian classification logo. Anything restricted to 15 years and over must bear the New Zealand OFLC logos. New Zealand also permits the release of games rated for customers 18 years and over.
R15 - Restricted
It is illegal for anyone to show or sell this to someone under 15 years of age. An R15 classification is given by the Office of Film and Literature Classification.
R16 - Restricted
It is illegal for anyone to show or sell this to someone under 16 years of age. An R16 classification is given by the Office of Film and Literature Classification.
R18 - Restricted
It is illegal to show or sell this to someone under 18 years of age. An R18 classification is given by the Office of Film and Literature Classification.
Bear in mind that this assessment is not related to your kid’s interest or capabilities. For instance, a game rated G will be suitable to everyone based on these criteria but this game may not appeal to everyone.
For more information about the Australian Classification Board, visit: www.www.classification.gov.au
For more information about New Zealand’s OFLC, visit: http://www.censorship.govt.nz/censorship-film-labels.html.
