Agerating

Age rating, or agerating, is a classification system that indicates the suitability of media content for different age groups. It serves to inform consumers and guide distribution, marketing, and access, especially for parents and guardians. Age ratings are typically assigned by an independent rating board or government agency and reflect the content’s treatment of elements such as violence, sexual content, language, drug use, and other potentially sensitive material.

Different regions use different frameworks. In the United States, the MPAA assigns film ratings (G, PG, PG-13, R, NC-17). The ESRB rates video games (EC, E, E10+, T, M, AO). In Europe, PEGI uses age categories such as 3, 7, 12, 16, and 18. The UK uses the BBFC (U, PG, 12A/12, 15, 18, R18). Other countries have their own bodies and criteria.

Content is submitted to the relevant body, where trained reviewers assess visual content, dialogue, themes, and gameplay mechanics if applicable. The result is a rating that may be accompanied by content descriptors. Some jurisdictions allow appeals or require edits before certification. Ratings can be legally binding in some places or advisory in others.

Ratings influence how products are marketed, displayed, and accessed. Digital platforms may enforce age gates, parental controls, and restricted storefronts based on rating. Critics note that ratings can be subjective or culturally biased and may lag behind new formats or online distribution.