Text 5. New Warnings For Video Games

Britain will soon start using a new ratings system for video games. Government officials have decided to use the PEGI (Pan-European Game Information) warning symbols so parents know what games to buy their kids. There are eight easily recognizable icons, in addition to coloured signs that represent ages 3, 7, 12, 16 and 18 and over. The symbols will show if the game contains any bad language, discrimination, gambling, drugs, horror, sex, and dating. There is another symbol to show the game is only online. Dr. Richard Wilson, an industry expert, said: "Game developers will welcome the new PEGI system, as it makes classification easier.” The PEGI website says companies like Sony, Microsoft and Nintendo support the symbols.

TIGA, the video game trade association, created the PEGI system. Its website says: “Interactive computer game playing is now a mass-market leisure activity, with millions of players throughout Europe. While most games are suitable for players of all ages there are many that are only suitable for older children and younger teenagers.” Alongside the new symbols PEGI will also offer additional advice to parents. This will help to explain different types of violence in games. Examples include "extreme violence,” the showing of “criminal techniques” and the “glamorization of crime”. The system is now used throughout Europe. It is a model that shows how Europe can work together to protect children.