PEGIjärjestelmä

PEGIjärjestelmä, or the Pan European Game Information system, is a European age rating system for video games. Established in 2003, it aims to help consumers, particularly parents, make informed decisions about purchasing video games for children. PEGI ratings are used in over 30 European countries.

The system assigns age ratings based on the content of the game, indicating the minimum age for which the game is considered suitable. The age categories are 3, 7, 12, 16, and 18. These ratings are determined by trained raters who assess the game's content against established criteria.

In addition to age ratings, PEGI also provides content descriptors. These descriptors highlight the specific types of content that led to the assigned age rating. Common descriptors include violence, discrimination, drugs, fear, sex, and gambling. There are also descriptors for language, though these are often included for younger age groups and might not necessarily lead to a higher age rating on their own.

PEGI is operated by the International Video Game Association (IVGA). While the system is widely adopted, it is important to note that it is not a legal requirement in all countries, though many retailers voluntarily adhere to its guidelines. The goal is to provide a consistent and understandable framework for game content across Europe, empowering consumers with information.