Europe Revises PEGI Ratings, Impacting EA Sports FC

Video game age ratings in Europe are set for a major overhaul this June. The Pan-European Game Information (PEGI) system will implement new categories addressing issues such as addictive game design, unmonitored online communication, and in-game paid content like loot boxes. This revamp is one of the most significant updates in PEGI’s history.

New Age Rating Criteria Introduced

Starting in June, PEGI will introduce four new criteria that will affect age ratings for various games. One immediate impact will be on titles like EA Sports FC, which typically holds a PEGI 3 rating due to its content. However, the presence of in-app purchases, particularly for Ultimate Team packs, is likely to elevate its rating to PEGI 16.

Key Changes to Rating System

• In-App Purchases: Games featuring time-limited or quantity-limited paid systems will receive a PEGI 12 rating. If a game includes features allowing players to turn off spending by default, this might lower the rating to PEGI 7.
• Paid Random Items: Games that sell loot boxes or similar mechanics will be rated PEGI 16. Titles with social casino elements could rate PEGI 18.
• Addictive Game Design: Games encouraging players to return frequently can receive ratings from PEGI 7 to PEGI 12, depending on the mechanics employed.
• Online Communication: Games without any communication restrictions will attain a PEGI 18 rating due to concerns about online toxicity.

Implementation Timeline

The updated rating criteria are scheduled to take effect in June. PEGI expects to start receiving game submissions under the new guidelines shortly after this date. However, the ratings will remain confidential until the games are ready for release. Many titles expected to debut under the revised criteria may surface around Gamescom later in the summer.

Industry Reactions

PEGI’s director general, Dirk Bosmans, acknowledged that these changes may provoke mixed responses from publishers and developers. He stated, “This is probably the most significant update we’ve had in our history.” While some companies may resist the new criteria, the revisions are intended to enhance the overall integrity and responsibility of the video game industry.

Addressing Industry Concerns

Moreover, Bosmans emphasized the importance of responding to longstanding concerns about the gaming landscape. Many of these changes were influenced by Germany’s USK ratings system, which adopted similar measures previously. PEGI aims to set a precedent, demonstrating a proactive stance to relevant lawmakers.

As the gaming community prepares for these adjustments, the full implications of the new PEGI ratings will unfold. The focus on elements like addictive game design and paid content signifies a shift toward greater accountability within the industry, ensuring a safer environment for players of all ages.