PEGI, Pan European Game Information, is the legally enforceable games rating system in the UK and useful tool for parents to ensure their child is playing games suitable for their age. All games released in the UK will have one of the following PEGI age ratings on the packaging: 3, 7, 12, 16 or 18. The rating means that the game shouldn’t be played by someone who is under that age. It also means that retailers cannot legally sell or hire games with PEGI 12, 16 and 18 ratings to those below these ages. You will also see icons on the box, next to the PEGI rating, that provide some information on what is included in the game such as in app purchases or violence. PEGI ratings are based on safety and not game difficulty. Many children want to be challenged by games and believe an older rated game will be harder so it is important to remind them that these age ratings are there to protect them.
