Movies and TV have their rating systems, and video games have their own too. In North America, games are rated by the ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board). If you’ve ever stood in a shop unsure whether a game is right for your child, this guide explains what each ESRB rating means and how to use the system.
The ESRB ratings at a glance
| E | Everyone — suitable for all ages. |
| E10+ | Everyone 10 and older. |
| T | Teen — suitable for ages 13 and up. |
| M | Mature — suitable for ages 17 and up. |
| AO | Adults Only — 18 and up; not sold by major retailers. |
| RP | Rating Pending — not yet rated. |
What each rating means
E — Everyone
Content suitable for all ages. There may be minimal cartoon, fantasy or mild violence (think a character bouncing on enemies), but nothing a reasonable parent would object to. Most family and platformer games fall here.
E10+ — Everyone 10 and older
May contain a little more cartoon, fantasy or mild violence, mild language, or minimal suggestive themes. A small step up from E, aimed at older children.
T — Teen
Suitable for ages 13 and up. May include violence, suggestive themes, crude humour, simulated gambling or infrequent strong language. Many popular action and sports games are rated T.
M — Mature 17+
For ages 17 and up. May contain intense violence, blood and gore, sexual content or strong language. Many big shooter and action franchises are M-rated — check before assuming a popular title is fine for a younger player.
AO — Adults Only
For adults 18+ only, with the most intense content. Notably, AO games are not sold on the major consoles or by most large retailers, so they’re rare.
Don’t ignore the content descriptors
Below each rating, the ESRB lists content descriptors such as “Violence,” “Blood,” “Strong Language,” “Suggestive Themes” or “In-Game Purchases.” These tell you exactly why a game earned its rating — far more useful than the letter alone. The ESRB also adds “Interactive Elements” notes that flag things like online interaction or the sharing of your location.
A note on online play and purchases
A game’s rating covers its content, but not what other players might say in unmoderated online chat. Look for the “Users Interact” descriptor, and use console parental controls to limit online communication, spending and screen time. Most consoles let you set age limits that mirror ESRB ratings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does an M rating mean for games?
M means Mature 17+ — the game may contain intense violence, blood, sexual content or strong language, similar to an R-rated film.
Are ESRB ratings legally enforced?
Retailers voluntarily enforce them, and AO games aren’t stocked by major stores, but the ratings are industry guidance rather than law.
What’s the difference between E10+ and T?
E10+ is for ages 10 and up with mild content, while T (Teen) is for 13 and up and may include stronger violence, language or suggestive themes.
Where can I check a game’s rating?
On the box, in digital stores, or at the official ESRB website, which lists ratings and content descriptors for every game.
Helpful resources
Search any game at the official ESRB Ratings Guide.
Related reading
Compare with movie age ratings explained and TV age ratings explained.