In the coming year, new rules for the testing of digital games by the test center for entertainment software self-control (USK) will apply. In addition to the well-known age rating for the protection of minors, there are also notes on the content and potential online risks such as in-game purchases and chats.
The well-known age ratings on the packaging of video games such as “USK from 6” or “USK from 16” will be expanded in the future with additional information for parents. As the images of the upcoming seal of approval show, there is a prominent short description of the potentially critical content such as “moments of terror”, “fantasy violence” or “horror”.
In addition, any in-game purchases that can pose a risk for unwanted spending by children and young people will be pointed out in the future and have been used in more and more games for monetization in recent years. More and more titles that are basically free to play (free-to-play) are enticing, but generate income through the sale of additional content in the game, which, for example, accelerates progress or beautifies the game character.
The implementation of the amended Youth Protection Act was one of the biggest changes in the history of the USK as a testing institution. The adjustments are an important pillar for a holistic and future-oriented protection of children and young people in the media.
USK Managing Director Elisabeth Secker
The examiners see another potential risk for adolescents in chats, in which people often abuse and bully. Therefore, the existence of such means of communication will also be marked in the future. This also applies to functions such as sharing your location.
The new seal of approval
Specifically The new USK seals therefore contain the previous age rating, the reasons for the age rating and information on use, as illustrated in the explanation of the information.
New USK age ratings with notes (examples ) (Image: USK)The new test criteria are to come into force on January 1, 2023 for the testing of digital games. The new seals of approval will be visible on the back of the box for games in physical form. Information on the respective online platform is planned for digital distribution. The classifications can also be called up in the USK title database.
Amended youth protection law is being implemented
The adjustments to the USK criteria are due to the last revision of the Youth Protection Act of May 1, 2021. In addition to potentially dangerous content, this now also takes into account new risks such as cost traps and bullying.