PEGI in games

PEGI 3 - Games with a PEGI 3 rating are suitable for all ages. Games with this rating wont contain any sounds or images that are likely to frighten young children. Only a very mild form of violence (in a comical context or a childlike setting) is allowed. no bad language should be heard. The most likely genre of game to be PEGI 3 is sports games, this is because most sports with games don’t need much dialogue, minimal contact/violence and the only sounds being heard will be the soundtrack or crowds of fans. Some examples of this are: FIFA, 2K, Rocket league, F1 etc. 

PEGI 7 means the game is suitable for those aged 7 and above. The difference between PEGI 3 and PEGI 7 isn't significant, the only major differences are: PEGI 7 games contain scenes or sounds that may frighten or startle younger audiences and slightly toned up, non-detailed/non-realistic violence. Some examples of PEGI 7 games are: Minecraft, LEGO star wars, Sonic the hedgehog and more. 

In identical fashion to the others, PEGI 12 means the game is suitable for those aged 12 and over. Games rated PEGI 12 may include unrealistic violence to human or human-like character and violence in a fantasy setting. Games with this rating can also include bad language. The biggest difference between games rated PEGI 12 and those rated PEGI 16 or 18 is the amount of and realism of the violence. Some examples of PEGI 12 games are: Fortnite, Street fighter 6, Naruto: storm series and most anime fighting games.  

 PEGI 16 - Wikidata 

PEGI 16 rating is given to games once the violence or sexual activity looks realistic. The swearing in PEGI 16 games can be more extreme than that of a PEGI 12. The use of illegal drugs alcohol and tobacco are also allowed. Some examples of PEGI 16 games are: Marvel’s Spider-Man, Elden ring, Uncharted 4 and others. 

The major difference between PEGI 18 and 16 is the sexual activity. Although PEGI 16’s may have erotic nudity, they can’t show sexual intercourse with visible genitals whereas PEGI 18’s can show explicit sexual activity. Most popular examples of PEGI 18 games are: GTA V, Red dead redemption 2, Ghost of Tsushima, Mortal kombat and more. 

Why were PEGI’s introduced? 

Video games age ratings explained | Internet Matters