Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers 123 Parent tips Multi-player online games are a particular concern in terms of violence and sexual content because players who do not necessarily know one another communicate through chat mode and and represent their characters as they please. Unlike regular games, which have ratings to guide parents, players drive the storylines in multiplayer online games, making it very difficult to gauge the amount of sexual content and violence a game will have. While some online games such as EverQuest have anEntertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) rating, the ESRB notes that since game content is provided by users, it is difficult to evaluate. However, some publishers have agreed to moderate or filter shocking or illicit content that could be shared by the players. In Europe, this code of behaviour is symbolized by the PEGI Online Safety Code (POSC) distinction. • Parents should read the "Terms and Conditions" and "Game Policies" and "Parents" sections on their kids'; game sites to see whether or not chat is moderated, how to report inappropriate conduct, how to block harassing players, if personal information is collected and how it is used. • Many online role playing games are designed to encourage gamers to continue to play more (in some games, the avatar disappears if the player hasn't clocked a certain number of hours per week). It's a good idea for parents to check whether there are a minimum weekly number of hours of play required before their child registers with an online game. • When your children start playing online games join them (even if it's just sitting and watching them play) so you can understand the rules and evaluate the risks involved. • Check out the video games review section of the Common Sense Media site for the content and age appropriateness of specific games. GAMING • Look for games that have the appropriate Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) rating for your child's age. Keep in mind that the ratings are guidelines and every child is different. Even games with the "Everyone" rating may contain content that some children find frightening. • For free online games not rated by the ESRB, check the "Terms and Conditions" (usually the link is found at the bottom of the page) to see what the recommended age is for using the site. • For information on the product-branded games kids play on commercial Web sites (also known as advergames), see theMarketing aimed at kids section. Teens are two to four times more likely than adults to develop compulsive gaming habits. (Source: International Centre forYouth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviours, 2004) continued on page 125... ...continued from page 121
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