ESRB @OKtoPlay Expanded Game Rating System

These days it's so easy for our kids to download an interactive game for their device.  But how do you know if it meets your standards and is age appropriate?  With ESRB, the non-profit organization that rates video games, you can check out their expanded rating system to address “interactive elements” associated with digital games and apps, such as the sharing of personal information, sharing location with others, or the ability for users to interact, communicate or share media like photos. 

For many parents, these types of elements are a growing concern as more and more kids are playing games on mobile devices. In fact, according to Pew Internet, nearly 80% of today’s teens (age 12 to 17) have a mobile phone – almost half of which are smartphones – and games are by far the top category of apps.

To help inform parents in picking the right games and apps for their families, ESRB recently released an update of its free mobile rating app. Available for iOS, Android, and Windows phones, the updated ESRB Rating Search App now features:

• Interactive Elements icons for digitally delivered games and apps so parents can easily identify if the game “Shares Location,” “Shares Info,” or if “Users Interact”
• Expanded search filters for finding games by a specific rating, content type, or platform
• Access to Rating Summaries for packaged games, which provide a detailed, straightforward explanation – including specific examples – of the content that factored into a game’s rating
• A brand new version designed for iPad and Android tablets 
• ESRB rating information for more 30,000 video games and apps – easily accessible right at your fingertips.

Be sure to download the app now and inform your kids before they buy what rating their apps need to have.  It's simple, it's easy and it's something all parents should use!  Check out the great video below to learn more.