In Australia, Do Children or Boys Play Video Games Rated Above Their Age?

During my formative years, especially in my thoroughly misspent youth, I certainly did play video games that were rated above my age range. My older half-brother, who was living with us at the time I was starting primary school and he was finishing high school, often used to play games designed for individuals older than either of us. His age was often a significant factor, but our parents didn't seem too bothered about that aspect.

As a child, I became quite adept at playing the Leisure Suit Larry and its sequels, even though I never fully grasped the humor in all the jokes. My parents would occasionally express their concern about the game's impact on me, but by then, the damage was already done. This was not an isolated incident; I remember a number of other classic games being played in much the same way.

Parental Oversight and Influence

It might be surprising to some that children and boys can and do play video games rated above their age. The reasons for this can vary widely. In many cases, parents or guardians might not strictly adhere to the ratings, or children might obtain games through friends, family, or through their own persuasive tactics.

One of the primary reasons children play games rated above their age is a desire to challenge themselves and explore a wider range of gameplay experiences. Young gamers often look for more mature content and complex storylines, which are typically available in higher-rated games. Another factor could be that despite the ratings, the game content may be less violent or explicit than expected, which might not significantly impact the younger player.

Parental Concerns and Mitigations

Parents and guardians often worry about the potential impact of playing games rated above a child's age. They may fear that such games could expose children to more mature themes, violence, and explicit content that could influence their behavior. However, it's important to recognize that most video games are designed to cater to a specific age group due to content, storyline, and difficulty levels.

Parents can take several steps to mitigate potential risks. They can:

Set Familiarity Rules: Define what games are acceptable and explain the reasons behind these rules. Stay Informed: Keep updated on the latest games and their ratings to better understand the content. Open Communication: Foster an open dialogue with their children to discuss any concerns or questions they may have about the games they play. Set Limits: Establish age-appropriate guidelines for game time and access to higher-rated games. Choose Games Wisely: Opt for games that offer educational or developmentally appropriate content.

Ultimately, the decision to allow a child to play a game rated above their age should be made with careful consideration of the child's maturity level, the content of the game, and the family's values and norms.

The Role of Age Ratings in Australia

In Australia, age ratings are typically assigned to video games based on their content and appropriate age groups. The Classification Board of Australia assigns a rating to each game, which helps parents and guardians make informed decisions. However, it's not uncommon for children to play games rated for older users, as they may feel drawn to the challenge, excitement, or simply explore a wider range of gaming experiences.

The effectiveness of these age ratings, however, can vary depending on the individual circumstances. The Classifications Act 1995 mandates that game producers and distributors provide accurate and relevant age ratings, but some games might still slip through the cracks due to various factors such as negligence or misinformation.

Closing Thoughts

While it's not uncommon for children to play video games rated above their age, it's crucial for parents to stay informed and involved. By setting appropriate boundaries, fostering open communication, and staying aware of the latest game releases and ratings, parents can help ensure that their children have a safer and more enjoyable gaming experience.

Remember, the proper use of age ratings and parental oversight can significantly reduce the potential risks associated with playing games rated above a child's age. By taking these steps, parents can help their children navigate the world of video games responsibly.