PEGI, the European video game age rating agency, has begun updating the age ratings for digital games containing loot boxes to 16. This new policy, which aims to better inform consumers about the presence of randomized monetization, will be rolled out throughout October.
The Games Rating Authority's Connor Hinde announced the updated criteria, which have been in effect for newly submitted games since June. The updated framework includes specific considerations for interactive risks, leading to the reclassification of existing digital-only games. Titles previously rated PEGI 3, 7, or 12 that feature paid random items, such as loot boxes, will now be assigned a PEGI 16 rating with the descriptor "Paid random items."
This process began this week and is expected to continue over the coming month. Publishers and developers with questions are encouraged to contact the PEGI helpdesk. Games affected by this policy change include the EA Sports FC series, which was previously rated PEGI 3. Zenless Zone Zero, a gacha action game from HoYoVerse, has also seen its rating increase from 12 to 16. Monopoly Go, which features randomized sticker packs and boxes, may also be subject to a rating change from its current 9+ rating on the Apple App Store.
This initiative aims to provide clearer guidance for parents and players regarding games with potentially problematic monetization strategies. The shift reflects PEGI's broader effort, announced in March, to address games with loot boxes, addictive mechanics, and unmonitored online communication, aligning its rating system with contemporary gaming practices.