Choosing Video Games for Kids: Age Ratings and Parental Controls Explained

Your child has asked for a new game and you have no idea whether it is suitable. You are not alone. The good news is that most games carry clear age ratings, and PlayStation consoles come with built-in controls to help families stay in charge. Here is what you need to know.

READ THE AGE RATING

Games sourced from the US, like the ones we stock, usually carry an ESRB rating. You will find it on the box or the store listing. The main ones are:

• E (Everyone): suitable for all ages.
• E10+ (Everyone 10+): may include more cartoon or mild violence and some mild language.
• T (Teen): generally suitable for ages 13 and up.
• M (Mature 17+): may contain intense violence, blood, strong language or mature themes.
• AO (Adults Only 18+): adult content only.

Look out for the short content descriptors next to the rating, such as "Violence" or "Language". They tell you why the game got its rating.

DO NOT STOP AT THE LETTER

Ratings are a guide, not the full story. Every child is different. A few quick checks help:

• Watch a short gameplay video online before you buy.
• Ask your child what they like about the game and who they will play with.
• Think about whether the game involves online play with strangers.

Horror games in particular can be upsetting for younger players, even if friends at school are playing them.

SET UP PARENTAL CONTROLS

PlayStation consoles let parents manage child accounts through family settings. Menu names can change with updates, but you can usually:

1. Create a child account linked to your own.
2. Restrict games and apps by age level.
3. Set play time limits for school nights and weekends.
4. Control or turn off online chat and messages.
5. Set a monthly spending limit on the PlayStation Store.

Take ten minutes to set this up on day one. It is far easier than trying to add rules later.

KEEP SPENDING UNDER CONTROL

In-game purchases can add up fast. One easy fix is to avoid linking a card at all and use PlayStation Store vouchers instead. Load a set amount, and once it is spent, it is spent. It also teaches kids a bit about budgeting. Just check the voucher region matches the account before buying.

PLAY TOGETHER

The best way to know what your child is playing is to pick up a controller and join in. Co-op games are perfect for this. You will see what the game is really like, spend time together, and probably get beaten by a ten-year-old.

AGREE ON HOUSE RULES

A few simple family rules go a long way:

• Homework and chores first, games after.
• Console in a shared room rather than a bedroom.
• No chatting with strangers online.
• Ask before buying anything in a game.

WHEN TO TAKE A BREAK

If gaming starts affecting sleep, schoolwork, mood or time with family and friends, it is a sign to cut back and talk it through. If you are worried about your child's wellbeing, speak to their teacher or a doctor.

FIND THE RIGHT GAME

Gaming can be a brilliant shared hobby when it is set up properly. Browse our games and PlayStation vouchers, check the rating on each title, and pick something the whole family can enjoy.