Can a Kid Buy an M Rated Video Game?

The Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) issues age and content ratings for video games to help guide consumers, especially parents. Games rated M (Mature) are recommended for ages 17 and up due to violent or sexual content. But can a child actually walk into a store and buy an M-rated game themselves? Let‘s take a closer look at the regulations and debate around underage access to mature video games.

ESRB Ratings Are Advisory, Not Legally Binding

The ESRB ratings provide guidance on a game‘s content and age-appropriateness, but they are not enforced by law. The ratings are self-imposed by the video game industry as a form of self-regulation. This means that retailers can choose whether or not to restrict M-rated game sales to minors. Policies vary by retailer.

Most Major Retailers Have Age Restriction Policies

While not required by law, most major retailers such as GameStop, Walmart, and Target have policies not to sell M-rated games directly to customers under 17 without a parent or guardian present. However, these policies are inconsistently enforced by staff.

According to a report by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), 13% of underage shoppers were able to buy M-rated video games, while only 3% were able to purchase R-rated DVDs. So access control for mature games seems to be more lax compared to other entertainment media.

Many Underage Youth Play M-Rated Games

Despite retail policies, various studies have found a high percentage of under 17 youth play M-rated video games on a regular basis:

• A survey found 67% of boys and 29% of girls under 17 play violent M-rated games frequently.
• 33% of underage boys and 10% of girls reported playing games almost every day.
• Kids obtain M-rated games from parents, siblings, friends or by purchasing themselves.

So a significant number of minors are exposed to violent content in games rated for adults. Their access depends on parental oversight and enforcement by retailers.

The Law Protects Minors‘ Access to Violent Content

In 2011, the Supreme Court struck down a California law that restricted the sale or rental of violent video games to minors based on free speech rights. The majority argued there was insufficient evidence that violent games cause real-world harm to minors. So while debate continues, current law leans toward protecting access.

Mixed Research on Effects of Violent Games on Youth

The research evidence is mixed on whether violent video games promote real world aggression in children and teens. Some studies find links to increased aggressive attitudes and behavior, while others find no effect. Critics argue violent games can desensitize kids or influence adolescents with mental health issues. But the data is inconclusive overall.

Game Industry Defends Creative Freedom for Mature Content

The video game industry, including publishers and retailers, want to empower parent oversight through the voluntary ratings system. But they generally oppose legal restrictions on content as an impediment to free speech and creative freedom. The industry argues parents should ultimately decide what games are appropriate for their child.

Parents Express Concerns and Call for Stricter Enforcement

Many parents support the ESRB ratings system, but also express concern over access to inappropriate content. Some parents advocate for legal reforms, such as not selling M-rated games to kids under 17. Others want retailers to enforce age restrictions and train staff not to sell mature games directly to minors.

Potential Approaches to Balance Oversight and Access

There are several options that could potentially help restrict underage access while respecting creative liberties:

• Improved staff training and compliance with retailer policies
• Require checking ID for M-rated purchases
• Tools to empower parent oversight, like mobile app linking to child‘s gameplay
• Expand gamer and parent education on ratings and parental controls
• Collaborative approach between industry, retailers, and advocates

The debate continues around balancing protections for minors vs. creative freedom in video games. A collaborative approach between stakeholders focused on education and voluntary compliance may hold the most promise for effective, ethical solutions. But improving enforcement of existing policies could be a good start.