The video game industry takes its commitment to parents seriously. It has a comprehensive strategy to ensure that parents and caregivers understand the differences in content when making a purchasing decision. This includes promoting the system to Canadians through information on ESAC's website and also through their partnership with the Retail Council of Canada. The Commitment to Parents program ensures that signage is displayed anywhere games are sold and that retailers ensure that purchasers of M-Rated games are at least 17 years of age. This comprehensive strategy guarantees that the ESRB rating system continues to be one of the most well-known systems in the world for age-ratings.
In addition to the rating system, all video game consoles have control settings that allow parents and caregivers to lock out inappropriate content. This is done by restricting certain ESRB rated games, limiting screen time, deactivating online functions and locking out payment features. Our industry works hard to educate parents on these available options to ensure their children are accessing video game products in ways that are responsible, appropriate, and healthy.
As part of this commitment, ESAC recently introduced new parental control instructional videos in English and French for the PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch & mobile devices (iOS and Android). Presented by Marc Saltzman and Carl-Edwin Michel, these short videos provide step-by-step instructions on setting up parental controls. Check them out here:
YouTube: TheESACanada
Facebook: The Entertainment Software Association of Canada
For more information, contact Jayson Hilchie at jhilchie@theesa.ca
