Is It Illegal for Kids to Buy M Rated Games? Demystifying Video Game Ratings and Regulations
The short answer is: no, it is generally not illegal for a child to buy an M (Mature) rated game in the United States. However, the situation is more nuanced than a simple yes or no. While federal law doesn’t prohibit the sale of M rated games to minors, store policies often restrict these sales, and legal frameworks exist in other countries. Let’s delve into the details, exploring the role of the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), retailer practices, parental responsibility, and the broader impact of video game ratings on children.
Understanding the ESRB and Its Role
The Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) is a private, self-regulatory organization that assigns age and content ratings to video games and apps. This rating system is designed to help parents make informed decisions about what games are appropriate for their children. The ESRB ratings range from Early Childhood (EC) to Adults Only (AO), with M (Mature) indicating content suitable for ages 17 and older. This content may include intense violence, blood and gore, sexual content, and/or strong language.
It’s crucial to understand that ESRB ratings are not laws. The ESRB is an industry body, similar to the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA), which rates movies. Its ratings are recommendations, not legal mandates. Therefore, a store selling an M rated game to a minor is not breaking the law, but they may be violating their own company policy.
Retailer Policies and Enforcement
Many major retailers, like GameStop and Walmart, have policies in place to restrict the sale of M rated games to customers under 17. GameStop, for example, explicitly prohibits the sale of M rated games to anyone under 17 and often requires ID verification to enforce this policy. Walmart also prompts cashiers to request identification for purchases of M rated games.
These policies are not legally binding, but retailers choose to implement them to address consumer concerns and promote responsible retailing. The enforcement of these policies varies, and some smaller retailers may not have such strict guidelines.
Parental Rights and Responsibilities
Ultimately, the decision of whether a child plays an M rated game rests with the parent or guardian. The ESRB ratings are designed to provide information, but parents are responsible for interpreting that information and making choices that align with their values and their child’s maturity level.
While retailers may restrict sales, parents can still purchase M rated games for their children or allow them to play such games with parental consent. This highlights the importance of open communication between parents and children about video game content and its potential impact.
The Legal Landscape Outside the US
While the US primarily relies on self-regulation and retailer policies, other countries have different legal frameworks. For example, in the United Kingdom, the Video Recordings Act 1984 makes it illegal to supply games rated PEGI (Pan European Game Information) 12, 16, or 18 to individuals under those ages. However, it is not illegal for a younger person to play a game if their parents allow it.
These international differences demonstrate that approaches to regulating video game content vary significantly across the globe.
Why Age Ratings Matter
Age ratings exist to provide parents with information about the content of video games. The Classification & Ratings Administration (CARA), for movies, has a similar goal: to equip parents with the tools they need to make informed choices. The ratings consider factors like violence, sexual content, language, and themes to determine the appropriate age group for a particular game.
Exposing children to content that is too mature can have negative consequences, as younger children may not be developmentally ready to process complex or disturbing themes. This is why the ESRB recommends that parents pay attention to the ratings and make informed decisions.
Debunking Myths About M Rated Games
There’s a common misconception that all M rated games are inherently harmful. However, the content of M rated games varies widely. Some may contain strong language and mild violence, while others may depict graphic violence and mature themes. It’s essential to research specific games and consider their content carefully before allowing a child to play them.
Additionally, some argue that the M rating is simply a marketing tactic, as it allows developers to include more mature content without fear of alienating younger audiences. The reason a lot of great movies are rated R is the same for video games to be rated M; freedom.
GamesLearningSociety.org, a website dedicated to the educational aspects of gaming, provides valuable resources for parents and educators looking to understand the impact of video games on learning and development. Visit Games Learning Society to learn more.
FAQs: Common Questions About Kids and M Rated Games
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the complexities surrounding children and M rated games:
Can a 13-year-old buy an M rated game?
Retailer policy will be the determining factor here. Many major retailers, like GameStop, will not sell an M rated game to a 13-year-old.
Is it illegal for a child to play an 18+ game?
In the US, no. However, in some other countries, this may be against the law.
Can a 14-year-old play T rated games?
Yes. T (Teen) rated games are generally considered suitable for ages 13 and up.
Can a 13-year-old play mature games?
If it is rated M for mature by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) they do not believe the content in the game is appropriate for children under the age of 17 because of blood and gore, intense violence, language, and/or sexual content.
Do you need an ID to buy M rated games?
Often yes. At retailers like GameStop, you will need a valid ID showing you are 17 or older.
Does GameStop ask for ID for mature games?
Yes, GameStop policy is if you are purchasing a M rated game then you must provide a source of ID.
Is it illegal to buy an M rated game under 17?
No, you cannot be arrested for allowing someone under 17 to play a “M” rated game, but most retailers will only sell the games to people old enough to buy them, However parents do let their child play such games.
Why do age ratings exist?
The current Classification & Ratings Administration (CARA), with a rating board made up of an independent group of parents, gives advance cautionary warnings to families about a movie’s content. CARA’s mission is to afford parents the tools they need to make informed decisions about what their children watch.
Why are M rated games 17?
This rating means the video game may contain violence, suggestive themes, crude humor, minimal blood, simulated gambling and/or infrequent use of strong language. Content is generally suitable for ages 17 and up.
Why do games ask for age?
Games that ask for your age, mostly multiplayer games, ask you for legal reasons. The game you are playing has been deemed to only be playable by certain ages by rating boards, like the ESRB.
Can stores sell M rated games to minors?
Yes. A person won’t go to jail if they were to sell a game such as GTA or Call of Duty to a minor. They will however most likely lose their job. The ESRB rating on a game isn’t a law.
Why do parents let their kids play M rated games?
Because most of the time they have no reason to be rated mature. The mature rating basically just means swearing and violence. Although it all depends on how old the ‘kid’, how often they play the mature games, and how mature the child is.
Should kids play R rated games?
This violence may upset, harm or disturb young children because they are not developmentally ready to be exposed to it.
What age can you buy an M rated game?
You can buy this rated game when you are 17 and up.
Does Walmart ID for mature games?
Yes, they do. Walmart prompt the cashier to ask for identification showing that the customer is 17 before a customer may purchase this rating.
Conclusion
While it is not generally illegal for a child to buy an M rated game in the US, retailer policies often restrict these sales. The ESRB ratings serve as a guide for parents, who ultimately have the responsibility to decide what content is appropriate for their children. Open communication, responsible retailing, and understanding the nuances of game content are key to navigating this complex landscape.