PEGI ratings become official this month

As of 30th July, PEGI ratings will become the sole certification system for video games in the United Kingdom.

Currently the system ratings system in the UK is shared between Pan European Game Information and the BBFC, but come the 30th, it’ll be just down to PEGI.

In addition, for the first time PEGI ratings will be legally enforceable in the same manner BBFC ratings are, meaning retailers face prosecution if age restrictions aren’t closely observed.

However, the new ratings system is still technically subject to Parliamentary scrutiny and therefore a possibility of a small delay remains.

Jo Twist, CEO of Association for UK Interactive Entertainment stated: “We welcome the news from government that July 30th is now looking the likely date for the implementation of PEGI as the single age rating system for video games in the UK.

“To prepare for the transition to the new system, we’ve already held PEGI briefing sessions to make sure that the industry is clear about what these changes will mean for them.

“We very much believe that the sole adoption of PEGI will provide clear and consistent direction on age ratings for parents and will be a vital tool in helping them to understand the types of games that their children should be playing.”