PEGI updates rules for loot boxes, addictive elements, and online communication. New ratings start in June, affecting games across Europe to protect younger users.
© A. Krivonosov
The Pan-European Game Information (PEGI) age classification system has announced its most significant reform to date. Starting in June, new rules will take effect across Europe, excluding Germany. The key changes involve a revised approach to in-game purchases, loot boxes, addictive elements, and online communication.
The most notable update is the automatic assignment of a PEGI 16 rating to games featuring random item sales, including loot boxes, card packs, and case-opening mechanics. This means titles like EA Sports FC, which previously carried a PEGI 3 rating with an in-game purchase notice, could shift to the 16+ category. Social casino games will be classified as PEGI 18.
Separate adjustments will affect battle passes and time-limited rewards. If a game pressures users to return regularly to maintain progress or earn temporary bonuses, it will receive at least a PEGI 12 rating. Games offering a built-in option to fully disable paid features might qualify for a reduced PEGI 7 rating, though such implementations are currently rare. Titles requiring NFTs for gameplay access will automatically get a PEGI 18 rating.
PEGI is also introducing criteria to counter "addictive design." Mechanics like daily missions, login streaks, or penalties for missed playtime will come with additional labels and, in some cases, lead to a higher age rating. The focus here is on informing parents rather than broadly escalating ratings.
The strictest measures target online communication. Games lacking moderation tools for text, voice, or video chat will receive a PEGI 18 rating. According to the organization's leadership, such projects may face sales restrictions on various platforms and could violate national laws, including the UK's Online Safety Act.
The new rules will apply to all games submitted for classification from June onward, with the first releases featuring updated ratings expected by late summer. PEGI describes this reform as the largest in the system's history, emphasizing that the changes aim to boost industry accountability and protect younger users.