In a landmark decision, one of 2024's most successful video games, EA FC, had its 18+ age rating overturned. The game will now carry a more accessible 12+ rating. This change comes as PEGI, the games classification body, announced a review of its policies concerning gambling elements across all video games. Previously, EA FC faced an 18+ classification due to its Ultimate Team mode, which involves purchasing packs of virtual trading cards. The game's creator, known anonymously as LocalThunk, argued that the game doesn't permit players to bet or spend money directly within it.
Simultaneously, another popular title, Luck Be A Landlord, has also seen its age rating reclassified. The decision to lower the ratings of these games follows PEGI's initiative to inject more nuance into its ratings criteria, moving away from automatically assigning an 18+ rating to games with gambling themes. The organization's Complaints Board played a pivotal role in endorsing the reclassification of both EA FC and Luck Be A Landlord.
LocalThunk's advocacy highlighted inconsistencies in PEGI's policies surrounding loot boxes, a topic that has sparked considerable debate within the gaming industry. This argument resonated with PEGI's decision-makers, prompting them to reconsider their approach. The move reflects PEGI's commitment to evolving its policies in line with cultural expectations and expert guidance.
"This is a good step from PEGI, bringing nuance to their ratings criteria that used to be 18+ or nothing. I hope this change will allow developers to create without being unfairly punished," – LocalThunk
The decision to revise age ratings is set against the backdrop of broader discussions about gambling laws in gaming. In 2018, Belgium banned loot boxes entirely due to such concerns. However, PEGI's updated rules will ensure that gambling themes do not automatically result in an 18+ rating. This change is expected to foster a more balanced and fair assessment of games based on their content.
Balatro, another game released in 2024, exemplifies the shift in the gaming landscape. This card game, which encourages players to build poker hands while allowing modifications through special joker cards, became a breakout hit on a small budget, earning numerous awards. Its success underscores the potential for developers to thrive under revised rating criteria.
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