I was thrilled to be part of the official rollout of the ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board) Public Service Announcement (PSA) featuring pitcher Ryan Vogelsong (named Giants Breakout Player 2011) and catcher Buster Posey (National League Rookie of the Year 2010). The two players are part of the campaign to raise awareness about the entertainment game rating system so parents and children purchase age appropriate video games.
In the PSA Ryan and Buster explain the ESRB rating system and point out to a dad how to use this system when purchasing video games. These PSAs will be widely broadcast on radio, television throughout Northern California as well as during home games at AT&T stadium.
“I grew up with video games and I still play today,” said Vogelsong. They’re a lot of fun, especially when we’re on the road. But these days it’s clear that not every game is right for every kid. The ESRB rating on the game box helps a parent decide which games are appropriate for their children. Being a father I’m proud to help reach other parents with this important message.”
“As a professional athlete and a parent, I know you have to have the right tools and resources to succeed at both,” added Posey. “From detailed ratings information to the easy-to-use mobile app, the ESRB helps parents manage their kids’ video game play. I may be a relatively new parent, but thanks to the ESRB I’m definitely going to be better prepared when it comes to choosing games for my kids.”
ESRB President Patricia Vance was on hand to introduce Buster and Ryan who spoke briefly during the press announcement. “By partnering with an organization like the Giants and enlisting the help of role models like Ryan and Buster, ESRB can educate more parents to help them make informed choices about the games they buy for their family. We’re truly grateful for their support.”
The picture shows the various rating symbols that appear on the front of every game package. On the back is more detailed information about the game and aspects of it that warrant the rating. Parents are encouraged to download a free mobile app that makes it convenient to use while shopping to determine age appropriate games. Whether the purchase is for their own children or for birthday games, they should always be aware of the rating system and purchased with care.
While attending the event, the Junior Giants (a non-profit organization that provides a free, non-competitive baseball program for boys and girls) challenged Ryan and Buster to a challenge of MLB 12: The Show from Sony. Sony gave each Junior Giant the game as well as a new Sony PS Vita. One young player was so thrilled with his new game he could barely lift his head up for a photo op with the players. What a great endorsement for Sony!
Patricia took the time to pose with fellow mommy bloggers behind home plate at AT&T Park. As president of the ESRB, Patricia’s role is to oversee and enforce the computer and video game industry’s self-regulatory practices. This includes the tools that consumers have at their disposal to ensure they have the appropriate information to a make informed purchases. In addition to serving as president of the ESRB, Patricia also serves on the Board of Directors for the Family Online Safety Institute and Academy of Interactive Arts and Sciences.
Be sure to download the free mobile app at http://www.esrb.org/mobile/
And check out a behind-the-scenes video of the PSA featuring Buster and Ryan:
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