The Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) is a self-regulatory body established in 1994 by the Entertainment Software Association (ESA). They provide ratings to help you choose games that are appropriate for you and your family. They rate games with symbols that indicate the suggested age group of game users for a particular game, and they use content descriptors that tell you about content elements that may be of interest or concern.
The site provides a search function so you can find the ratings for a particular game. I decided to rate Everquest. The results showed 17 versions of the game (!!), all of which contain violence, and most of which contain Blood, Blood and Gore, and Suggestive Themes. All are also rated for teens. I'm glad I don't have kids to worry about.
The ratings are:
EARLY CHILDHOOD
Titles rated EC - Early Childhood have content that may be suitable for ages 3 and older. Contains no material that parents would find inappropriate.
TEEN
Titles rated T - Teen have content that may be suitable for persons ages 13 and older. May contain violent content, mild or strong language, and/or suggestive themes.
ADULTS ONLY
Titles rated AO - Adults Only have content suitable only for adults. Titles in this category may include graphic depictions of sex and/or violence. Adult Only products are not intended for persons under the age of 18.
EVERYONE
Titles rated E - Everyone have content that may be suitable for persons ages 6 and older. Titles in this category may contain minimal violence, some comic mischief and/or mild language.
MATURE
Titles rated M - Mature have content that may be suitable for persons ages 17 and older. Titles in this category may contain mature sexual themes, more intense violence and/or strong language.
RATING PENDING
Titles listed as RP - Rating Pending have been submitted to the ESRB and are awaiting final rating.
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