Are you wondering where to find ratings for video games? Look no further! This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to know about where to find ratings for video games. From online gaming websites to video game magazines, we’ll cover it all. With the rise of gaming culture, it’s important to stay informed about the content of the games you play. Whether you’re a parent worried about the age-appropriateness of a game or a gamer looking for a new game to try, this guide has got you covered. So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn about where to find ratings for video games.
Understanding Video Game Ratings
What are video game ratings?
Video game ratings are a system used to classify and rate video games based on their content, age-appropriateness, and suitability for different audiences. These ratings provide useful information to help parents, guardians, and gamers make informed decisions about the games they play or allow others to play.
There are several organizations that issue video game ratings, including the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) in the United States and the Pan European Game Information (PEGI) in Europe. These organizations evaluate games based on factors such as violence, sexual content, language, and other mature themes.
Video game ratings are essential for ensuring that gamers, especially children and teenagers, are not exposed to inappropriate content. They also help parents and guardians make informed decisions about the games their children play, as well as help retailers determine which games to stock in their stores.
In summary, video game ratings are a crucial tool for ensuring that gamers have access to age-appropriate and suitable content, while also protecting minors from exposure to harmful or offensive material.
Types of video game ratings
Video game ratings are used to provide information about the content and suitability of a game for different age groups. There are several types of video game ratings, each with its own criteria and rating scale.
Ratings systems used in different countries
Different countries have their own ratings systems for video games. Some of the most common ones include:
- The Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) in the United States
- The Pan European Game Information (PEGI) in Europe
- The Classification Board (CB) in Australia
- The Computer Entertainment Rating Organization (CERO) in Japan
Each of these ratings systems has its own criteria and rating scale, which can vary depending on the country’s cultural and legal differences.
Comparison of ratings systems
While each ratings system has its own unique criteria, there are some similarities between them. For example, most ratings systems consider factors such as violence, sexual content, language, and drug use when assigning ratings.
However, there are also some differences between the ratings systems. For instance, the ESRB’s rating scale includes categories such as “Teen” and “Mature,” while the PEGI’s rating scale includes categories such as “Three years and over” and “Seventeen years and over.”
Additionally, some countries have different laws and regulations regarding the sale of video games with certain ratings. For example, in Australia, games with a “Refused Classification” rating cannot be sold or advertised in the country.
Overall, it’s important to understand the different types of video game ratings and how they differ across countries. This can help parents and gamers make informed decisions about which games are appropriate for them.
Finding Ratings Online
Gaming websites
When it comes to finding ratings for video games, gaming websites are one of the most popular sources of information. These websites provide reviews, ratings, and other helpful information about a wide range of video games.
Some popular gaming websites with review sections include:
- IGN (https://www.ign.com/videos/2022/02/24/best-switch-games-2022): IGN is one of the most well-known gaming websites, and it offers reviews and ratings for a wide range of video games across multiple platforms.
- GameSpot (https://www.gamespot.com/videos/best-upcoming-games-of-2022/): GameSpot is another popular gaming website that provides reviews and ratings for video games, as well as news and other information about the gaming industry.
- Metacritic (https://www.metacritic.com/videos/games/pc/littlebigplanet-3): Metacritic is a website that aggregates reviews from a variety of sources and calculates a Metascore for each game. It also provides user reviews and ratings.
These are just a few examples of gaming websites that offer ratings and reviews for video games. There are many other websites out there, so it’s worth doing some research to find the ones that are most reliable and trustworthy.
Social media platforms
In the digital age, social media platforms have become a go-to destination for gamers to share their opinions and ratings on video games. Here are some popular social media platforms with gaming communities where you can find ratings for video games:
Reddit is a treasure trove of gaming communities where you can find ratings for video games. Some of the most popular gaming subreddits include:
- r/gaming: This is a general gaming subreddit where users discuss various topics related to gaming, including game releases, updates, and ratings.
- r/gamingsuggestions: This subreddit is dedicated to sharing game recommendations and ratings based on different genres and platforms.
- r/gamedeals: This subreddit is focused on sharing game deals and discounts, but users also share their ratings and opinions on various games.
Twitter is another popular platform where gamers share their opinions and ratings on video games. You can follow popular gaming influencers, journalists, and critics to stay up-to-date on the latest game releases and ratings.
Some popular gaming-related Twitter accounts include:
- @IGN: IGN is a popular gaming website that shares news, reviews, and ratings for video games.
- @GameSpot: GameSpot is another popular gaming website that shares news, reviews, and ratings for video games.
- @Polygon: Polygon is a gaming website that focuses on news, reviews, and features related to video games.
Discord
Discord is a popular communication platform for gamers that also has a thriving community of gaming enthusiasts. You can join various gaming servers and channels to find ratings for video games based on different genres and platforms.
Some popular gaming-related Discord servers include:
- The Gaming Zone: This server has various channels dedicated to different genres and platforms, where users share their ratings and opinions on video games.
- Gaming Circle: This server has a large community of gamers who share their ratings and opinions on various video games.
- Gamers Hangout: This server has a community of gamers who share their ratings and opinions on video games, as well as news and updates related to the gaming industry.
Overall, social media platforms are a great resource for finding ratings for video games. Whether you prefer Reddit, Twitter, or Discord, there are plenty of communities and influencers to follow to stay up-to-date on the latest game releases and ratings.
Online forums and communities
When it comes to finding ratings for video games, online forums and communities can be a valuable resource. Here’s a closer look at how to find ratings in gaming forums:
Popular gaming forums and communities
There are numerous gaming forums and communities that provide a platform for gamers to share their thoughts and opinions on various video games. Some of the most popular ones include:
- Reddit: With over 330 million monthly users, Reddit is a hub for all things gaming. There are numerous subreddits dedicated to specific games or genres, where users can share their ratings and feedback.
- GameFAQs: GameFAQs is one of the oldest and most popular gaming communities, offering discussion forums for various games. Users can find ratings and reviews from other gamers, as well as ask questions and share their own experiences.
- Gamerankings: Gamerankings is a website that aggregates reviews from various sources, including gaming forums and communities. It provides a comprehensive overview of a game’s ratings and reviews from different perspectives.
How to find ratings in gaming forums
Once you’ve identified the gaming forums and communities you want to explore, here’s how to find ratings for video games:
- Search for the game: Use the search function within the forum or community to look for the specific game you’re interested in. You can type in the game’s title or a relevant keyword, such as “game reviews” or “game ratings.”
- Check user reviews: Most gaming forums and communities have a section dedicated to user reviews. Here, you can find ratings and feedback from other gamers who have played the game. Pay attention to the overall rating, as well as the comments and opinions shared by other users.
- Read expert reviews: Some gaming forums and communities also feature expert reviews from professional gamers or game journalists. These reviews can provide a more in-depth analysis of the game’s strengths and weaknesses, and can help you make a more informed decision.
- Join the conversation: Don’t be afraid to join the conversation and ask questions about the game. Many gamers are happy to share their experiences and provide advice based on their own ratings and feedback.
Professional gaming websites
Professional gaming websites are a valuable resource for finding ratings for video games. These websites employ professional game reviewers who have extensive experience and knowledge of the gaming industry. They provide detailed reviews and ratings for a wide range of video games across different platforms. Here are some examples of professional gaming websites with rating systems:
- IGN: IGN is one of the most popular and trusted sources for video game reviews. They have a team of expert reviewers who provide in-depth reviews and ratings for the latest video games across different platforms. Their rating system consists of a score out of 10, along with a brief summary of the review.
- GameSpot: GameSpot is another well-known website for video game reviews and news. They have a team of experienced reviewers who provide comprehensive reviews and ratings for the latest video games. Their rating system consists of a score out of 10, along with a brief summary of the review.
- Polygon: Polygon is a website that focuses on video game news, reviews, and features. They have a team of professional reviewers who provide insightful reviews and ratings for the latest video games. Their rating system consists of a score out of 10, along with a detailed review of the game.
- GamesRadar+: GamesRadar+ is a website that offers video game news, reviews, and features. They have a team of expert reviewers who provide in-depth reviews and ratings for the latest video games. Their rating system consists of a score out of 10, along with a detailed review of the game.
These professional gaming websites are reliable sources for finding ratings for video games. They provide detailed reviews and ratings that can help you make informed decisions about which games to play.
Finding Ratings in Retail Stores
Game stores
Game stores are a popular destination for video game enthusiasts to purchase and learn about the latest releases. These stores often display ratings for video games in a visible and accessible manner to help customers make informed purchasing decisions.
- How game stores display ratings
- Ratings are typically displayed on the game’s packaging, such as the cover art or the back of the box.
- Some stores may also have displays or endcaps featuring popular or highly rated games.
- Some stores may have a section dedicated to displaying ratings and reviews from various sources, such as Metacritic or GameSpot.
- Examples of game stores with rating systems
- GameStop: GameStop displays ratings on the game’s packaging and may have a section dedicated to showcasing popular or highly rated games.
- Best Buy: Best Buy displays ratings on the game’s packaging and may have a section dedicated to showcasing popular or highly rated games.
- Amazon: Amazon displays ratings and reviews on the product page for each game, as well as on the game’s main page in the video game section.
By visiting game stores, customers can get a sense of what games are popular and highly rated, and can read reviews and ratings from various sources to make an informed decision about their purchase.
Video rental stores
In the past, video rental stores were a popular destination for gamers looking to rent or purchase new games. These stores often had a rating system in place to help customers make informed decisions about which games to buy or rent. Here’s a closer look at how video rental stores display ratings and some examples of stores with rating systems.
How video rental stores display ratings
Video rental stores typically display ratings for games in a visible location, such as near the game’s display or in a section dedicated to ratings. The ratings may be displayed using a letter or number system, with “E” for Everyone being the most common rating for family-friendly games.
Other ratings include:
- T (Teen): Games with a T rating are suitable for players 13 and older and may contain violence, mild language, or suggestive themes.
- M (Mature): Games with an M rating are intended for players 17 and older and may contain intense violence, strong language, sexual content, or gambling.
- AO (Adults Only): Games with an AO rating are intended for players 18 and older and contain content that is considered to be extremely violent, sexual, or otherwise inappropriate for minors.
Examples of video rental stores with rating systems
- Blockbuster: Blockbuster was a popular video rental store that used a rating system to help customers make informed decisions about which games to rent or purchase. The system used a letter system (E, T, M, AO) to indicate the level of maturity and content in the game.
- Hollywood Video: Hollywood Video was another popular video rental store that used a rating system to help customers make informed decisions about which games to rent or purchase. The system used a letter system (E, T, M, AO) to indicate the level of maturity and content in the game.
- Game Crazy: Game Crazy was a video game-focused rental store that used a rating system to help customers make informed decisions about which games to rent or purchase. The system used a letter system (E, T, M, AO) to indicate the level of maturity and content in the game.
These are just a few examples of video rental stores that used rating systems to help customers make informed decisions about which games to rent or purchase. While these stores may no longer be as popular as they once were, their rating systems can still provide valuable information for gamers looking to make informed decisions about which games to play.
Convenience stores
Convenience stores are a popular destination for gamers looking to purchase the latest releases. Many convenience stores display ratings on their game products to help customers make informed purchasing decisions. Here’s a closer look at how convenience stores display ratings and some examples of stores with rating systems.
How convenience stores display ratings
Convenience stores typically display ratings on the front or back of the game packaging. The ratings are usually provided by a third-party organization, such as the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) or the Pan European Game Information (PEGI). These organizations assign age ratings and content descriptors to help parents and gamers understand the content of the game.
Some convenience stores may also display ratings on their website or mobile app, providing customers with easy access to information about the games they want to purchase. This information can include ratings, customer reviews, and other helpful information to help customers make informed decisions.
Examples of convenience stores with rating systems
There are many convenience stores that display ratings on their game products. Here are a few examples:
- 7-Eleven: One of the largest convenience store chains in the world, 7-Eleven displays ratings on the front of their game packaging. They also provide information about the game’s rating and content descriptors on their website and mobile app.
- Circle K: Another popular convenience store chain, Circle K displays ratings on the front of their game packaging. They also provide information about the game’s rating and content descriptors on their website and mobile app.
- QuikTrip: QuikTrip is a convenience store chain based in the United States. They display ratings on the front of their game packaging and provide information about the game’s rating and content descriptors on their website and mobile app.
In addition to these examples, many other convenience stores display ratings on their game products to help customers make informed purchasing decisions. Whether you’re looking for the latest game release or a classic title, you can find ratings at your local convenience store.
Finding Ratings in the Media
Printed magazines
Printed gaming magazines have been a popular source of information for gamers for decades. They provide in-depth reviews, previews, and features on the latest video games, as well as news and opinion pieces on the industry. Many printed gaming magazines also have their own rating systems, which can be useful for gamers looking to make informed purchasing decisions.
How printed gaming magazines display ratings
Printed gaming magazines typically display ratings in the form of a score out of 10 or 100. Some magazines may also use a star system, with one star representing a poor game and five stars representing an excellent game. Ratings are usually displayed at the beginning of a review, along with a brief summary of the game’s strengths and weaknesses.
Examples of printed gaming magazines with rating systems
There are many printed gaming magazines that use rating systems, including:
- Game Informer: One of the largest gaming magazines in the US, Game Informer provides reviews and ratings for all major console and PC games. Its rating system uses a scale of 1-10, with a few exceptions for certain indie games.
- Edge: A UK-based magazine, Edge is known for its in-depth reviews and analysis of video games. Its rating system uses a scale of 1-10, with a “Special Award” given to games that excel in specific areas.
- Eurogamer: Another UK-based magazine, Eurogamer provides news, reviews, and analysis on the latest video games. Its rating system uses a scale of 1-10, with a “Recommended” badge given to games that are worth playing.
These are just a few examples of the many printed gaming magazines that use rating systems to help gamers make informed purchasing decisions.
Television shows
When it comes to finding ratings for video games, television shows can be a great resource. Many shows now feature video game reviews and ratings as part of their programming. Here are some examples of television shows that provide video game reviews:
- GameStop TV: This show is a collaboration between GameStop and the video game website IGN. It features reviews and previews of upcoming video games, as well as interviews with game developers and industry experts.
- GTTV: This show is produced by GameTrailers and airs on Spike TV. It features reviews, previews, and news about upcoming video games, as well as interviews with game developers and industry experts.
- X-Play: This show is produced by G4 and features reviews and previews of video games across multiple platforms, including consoles, PC, and mobile devices. The show also includes interviews with game developers and industry experts.
- Attack of the Show: This show is produced by G4 and features news, reviews, and previews of video games across multiple platforms, as well as interviews with game developers and industry experts.
These are just a few examples of the many television shows that feature video game reviews and ratings. By tuning in to these shows, you can stay up-to-date on the latest video game releases and get insights from industry experts.
Podcasts
- Podcasts that discuss video game ratings and reviews: Podcasts have become a popular source of information for video game enthusiasts. They offer a wide range of content, including discussions on video game ratings and reviews. Many podcasts focus on providing in-depth analysis and commentary on the latest video game releases, and some even feature interviews with game developers and industry experts.
- Examples of podcasts with video game reviews: Some podcasts are dedicated specifically to reviewing video games. These podcasts typically feature a group of hosts who have a deep knowledge of the gaming industry and provide their opinions on the latest game releases. Examples of such podcasts include “Giant Bomb”, “Kotaku Splitscreen”, and “GameGrumps”. These podcasts can be found on various platforms, including iTunes, Spotify, and YouTube.
Influencer reviews
Social media influencers have become a popular source for video game reviews as they have a large following and can reach a wide audience. These influencers can provide an honest and unbiased opinion on a game, which can be helpful for consumers when making a purchasing decision.
Some examples of influencers with video game reviews include:
- PewDiePie: A popular YouTuber with over 110 million subscribers, PewDiePie reviews a variety of video games and has a large following among gamers.
- Markiplier: Another popular YouTuber, Markiplier also reviews video games and has a large following among gamers.
- Zoë Two Point Oh: A gaming journalist and influencer, Zoë Two Point Oh provides in-depth reviews of video games and has a large following among gamers.
These influencers and others like them can be a great resource for gamers looking for honest and unbiased reviews of video games. By following their channels and watching their videos, gamers can get a sense of what a game is like and whether it is worth purchasing.
Professional reviews
Video games have become an integral part of the entertainment industry, and with the rise of the gaming market, finding ratings for video games has become crucial for both gamers and game developers. Professional reviews are a valuable source of information for gamers who want to know more about a particular game before purchasing it. Here are some of the most popular websites that offer professional game reviews:
- IGN: IGN (Internet Gaming Network) is one of the most popular gaming websites that offer professional reviews for video games. It provides in-depth reviews of various video games across different platforms, including consoles, PC, and mobile devices. IGN also provides ratings for games based on a scale of 1-10, which helps gamers make informed decisions.
- GameSpot: GameSpot is another popular website that offers professional reviews for video games. It provides comprehensive reviews of games across different platforms, including console and PC games. GameSpot also provides a detailed breakdown of the game’s features, gameplay, and graphics, which helps gamers make informed decisions.
- Polygon: Polygon is a website that offers reviews for video games, as well as news and analysis of the gaming industry. It provides in-depth reviews of games across different platforms, including console and PC games. Polygon also provides a rating system based on a scale of 1-10, which helps gamers make informed decisions.
- GamesRadar+: GamesRadar+ is a website that offers reviews for video games, as well as news and analysis of the gaming industry. It provides comprehensive reviews of games across different platforms, including console and PC games. GamesRadar+ also provides a rating system based on a scale of 1-10, which helps gamers make informed decisions.
These are just a few examples of the many websites that offer professional reviews for video games. By reading professional reviews, gamers can gain valuable insights into the game’s features, gameplay, graphics, and overall quality, which can help them make informed decisions when purchasing a game.
FAQs
1. Where can I find ratings for video games?
Ratings for video games can be found on various websites, such as the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) in the United States, or the Pan European Game Information (PEGI) in Europe. These organizations provide age ratings and content descriptors for video games to help parents and players make informed decisions about the games they play. Additionally, many retailers also provide information about game ratings on their websites or in-store.
2. What do video game ratings mean?
Video game ratings are designed to provide information about the content of a game and its suitability for different age groups. In the United States, the ESRB uses a rating system that includes six different age ratings, ranging from “Early Childhood” to “Adults Only.” These ratings are based on factors such as violence, sexual content, language, and drug and alcohol references. Other organizations, such as PEGI, use a similar rating system.
3. Why are video game ratings important?
Video game ratings are important because they provide parents and players with information about the content of a game and its suitability for different age groups. This information can help parents make informed decisions about the games their children play, and can also help players make choices that are appropriate for their own interests and preferences. Additionally, some retailers may have policies that restrict the sale of certain games to minors, and ratings can help enforce these policies.
4. Can I trust the ratings provided by video game organizations?
Ratings provided by video game organizations, such as the ESRB and PEGI, are generally considered to be reliable and accurate. These organizations have established criteria for rating games and employ trained reviewers to assess the content of each game. However, it’s important to note that different people may have different opinions about what is appropriate or not, so it’s always a good idea to do your own research and make your own decisions about the games you play.
5. Are there any alternatives to official video game ratings?
There are some alternative sources of information about video game content, such as user reviews and ratings on websites like Metacritic or GameSpot. These sources can provide additional information about a game’s content and may be helpful in making decisions about whether or not to play a particular game. However, it’s important to keep in mind that these sources may not always be reliable, and it’s always a good idea to do your own research and make your own decisions about the games you play.