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Most of the major video games and computer
software manufacturers have adopted the Entertainment Software Rating
Board (ESRB) system. This rating system was implemented in September
1994, and most games released since then have the ESRB rating on the
product package. Games are classified into five age-based categories
that are based on the levels of sex, nudity, violence and offensive
language.
The
Canadian Interactive Digital Software Association (CIDSA) administers
the ESRB ratings in Canada. Manufacturers submit their games to rating
reviewers for classification. Members of the CIDSA are encouraged
though not required, to submit all new products before they appear in
Canadian stores.
The
ESRB more or less replaced the older RSAC
ratings system.
 Early
Childhood
Content suitable for children ages 3 and over. Contains no violence. Child
requires reading skills, fine motor skills and a high level of thinking skills.
 Everyone
Content suitable for persons ages six and older. They may contain
minimal violence, some comic mischief (for example, slapstick comedy),
or some crude language.
 Teens
Content suitable for persons 13 and older. Contains all the above,
plus more animated or realistic violence. May have strong language
and/or suggestive themes.
 Mature
Content suitable for persons ages 17 and older. These products may
include more intense violence or language than products in the Teen
category. In addition, these titles may also include mature sexual
themes.
 Adults
Only
Content suitable only for adults. These products may include graphic
depictions of sex and/or violence. Adults Only products are not
intended to be sold or rented to persons under the age of 18.
 Rating
Pending
Product has been submitted to the ESRB and is awaiting final rating.
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