A Comprehensive Guide to Getting Your Game ESRB Rated: Tips and Tricks

Are you a game developer looking to get your game ESRB rated? Look no further! This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of getting your game rated by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB). From understanding the ESRB’s rating system to submitting your game for review, we’ve got you covered. We’ll also provide tips and tricks to help you navigate the process and increase your chances of getting the rating you want. So whether you’re a seasoned developer or just starting out, read on to learn how to get your game ESRB rated.

What is ESRB and Why is it Important for Game Developers?

Understanding the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB)

The Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) is a non-profit organization that was established in 1994 to provide consumers with accurate and consistent information about the content of video games. The ESRB’s primary goal is to help parents make informed decisions about the games their children play by assigning age-appropriate ratings to video games based on their content.

The ESRB’s rating system consists of six categories: Early Childhood (EC), Everyone, Everyone 10+, Teen, Mature, and Adults Only. These categories are based on the level of violence, sexual content, strong language, and other mature themes that are present in a game. The ESRB also provides additional content descriptors to help parents understand the specific types of content that may be present in a game, such as suggestive themes, violence, or alcohol reference.

As a game developer, it is important to obtain an ESRB rating for your game because most retailers in the United States require that games be rated by the ESRB before they can be sold. In addition, many parents use the ESRB’s ratings as a guide when making decisions about which games to purchase for their children. Obtaining an ESRB rating can help increase the visibility and sales of your game, as it provides assurance to parents that the content of your game is appropriate for their children.

In order to obtain an ESRB rating, game developers must submit their game to the ESRB for review. The review process involves evaluating the game’s content and assigning a rating based on the ESRB’s criteria. In the next section, we will discuss the steps involved in submitting a game for ESRB rating and tips for ensuring a smooth review process.

The Importance of ESRB Ratings for Game Developers

As a game developer, it is crucial to understand the significance of ESRB ratings. The Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) is an organization that rates video games based on their content, providing consumers with information about the age-appropriateness of a game. ESRB ratings help players make informed decisions about the games they play, ensuring that they are aware of any potentially mature or inappropriate content.

Benefits of ESRB Ratings for Game Developers

1. Access to a wider audience: Obtaining an ESRB rating can open up new markets for your game, as it provides assurance to parents and guardians that the content is suitable for their children.
2. Establishes trust: A game with an ESRB rating is more likely to be seen as credible and trustworthy, as it has undergone a rigorous evaluation process.
3. Legal compliance: ESRB ratings help game developers comply with industry regulations and avoid potential legal issues related to inappropriate content.
4. Enhanced credibility: An ESRB rating can enhance the credibility of your game, making it more appealing to players and increasing its overall value.

Potential Risks of Not Obtaining an ESRB Rating

1. Restricted access: Without an ESRB rating, a game may be restricted from sale in certain retail outlets or digital storefronts, limiting its potential audience.
2. Negative publicity: Failure to obtain an ESRB rating can result in negative publicity for the game and its developer, potentially harming the game’s reputation and sales.
3. Legal consequences: Developers who distribute unrated games may face legal consequences, including fines and potential legal action from affected parties.

In conclusion, obtaining an ESRB rating is crucial for game developers who want to ensure their games reach a broader audience and maintain credibility within the industry.

How to Get Your Game ESRB Rated: Step-by-Step Guide

Preparing Your Game for ESRB Submission

When it comes to getting your game ESRB rated, the first step is to prepare your game for submission. This may seem like a daunting task, but with the right preparation, it can be a smooth process. Here are some tips and tricks to help you prepare your game for ESRB submission:

1. Ensure Your Game Meets ESRB Criteria

Before submitting your game for ESRB rating, it’s important to ensure that it meets the criteria set by the organization. The ESRB has specific guidelines for the types of content that are allowed in games, as well as the types of content that are not allowed. It’s important to familiarize yourself with these guidelines to ensure that your game meets the necessary requirements.

2. Prepare Your Game for Technical Review

The ESRB requires that all games be submitted for technical review before they can be rated. This review is designed to ensure that the game is functioning properly and that it meets the necessary technical requirements. To prepare your game for technical review, you should ensure that it is free of bugs and glitches, and that it runs smoothly on a variety of different platforms.

3. Prepare Your Game for Content Review

Once your game has passed technical review, it will be ready for content review. This review is designed to ensure that the game’s content is appropriate for its intended audience. To prepare your game for content review, you should ensure that all content is appropriate and that it meets the ESRB’s guidelines. This includes ensuring that the game’s language is appropriate, that it does not contain any explicit content, and that it does not promote violence or other inappropriate behavior.

4. Provide Detailed Information About Your Game

When submitting your game for ESRB rating, it’s important to provide detailed information about your game. This includes information about the game’s storyline, characters, and gameplay mechanics. The more information you provide, the better the ESRB will be able to understand your game and accurately rate it.

5. Prepare All Necessary Documentation

To submit your game for ESRB rating, you will need to provide all necessary documentation. This includes information about your company, as well as any relevant legal documents, such as contracts and licenses. It’s important to ensure that all documentation is complete and up-to-date before submitting your game for ESRB rating.

By following these tips and tricks, you can ensure that your game is properly prepared for ESRB submission. This will help to ensure that the rating process goes smoothly, and that your game is accurately rated.

Submitting Your Game to ESRB for Rating

As a game developer, one of the most crucial steps in getting your game released is getting it rated by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB). This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to submit your game to the ESRB for rating.

Step 1: Prepare Your Game for Submission

Before submitting your game to the ESRB, it is essential to ensure that it is ready for review. This includes:

• Completing the game’s content and ensuring that it is bug-free.
• Ensuring that the game meets the minimum technical requirements for rating.
• Including all necessary files and documentation, such as the game’s code, artwork, and sound files.

Step 2: Register Your Game with the ESRB

To submit your game for rating, you must first register it with the ESRB. This involves creating an account on the ESRB website and providing information about your game, including its title, genre, and platform.

Step 3: Complete the Rating Questionnaire

Once your game is registered, you will need to complete the ESRB’s rating questionnaire. This questionnaire asks about the game’s content, including violence, sexuality, language, and drug use. It is essential to answer these questions accurately and comprehensively to ensure that the ESRB’s rating accurately reflects your game’s content.

Step 4: Submit Your Game for Rating

After completing the rating questionnaire, you can submit your game for rating. The ESRB will then review your game and assign it a rating based on its content. This process typically takes several weeks, depending on the complexity of the game and the ESRB’s workload.

Step 5: Make Any Necessary Changes

If the ESRB assigns your game a rating that you disagree with or if it identifies any issues with your game’s content, you may need to make changes to the game before it can be released. The ESRB will provide detailed feedback on any issues it identifies, and it is essential to address these issues promptly to ensure that your game is released as soon as possible.

In summary, submitting your game to the ESRB for rating is a crucial step in getting it released. By following these steps and ensuring that your game is ready for review, you can help ensure that the ESRB’s rating accurately reflects your game’s content and that it is released successfully.

Understanding the ESRB Rating Process

Before diving into the step-by-step guide for getting your game ESRB rated, it is essential to understand the ESRB rating process. The Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) is a non-profit organization that provides ratings for video games to inform consumers about the content of a game. These ratings help parents make informed decisions about the games their children can play.

The ESRB rating system consists of the following ratings:

• EC (Early Childhood): Games that are suitable for players of all ages, including toddlers.
• E (Everyone): Games that are suitable for players of all ages.
• E10+ (Everyone 10 and older): Games that are suitable for players 10 years and older.
• T (Teen): Games that are suitable for players 13 years and older.
• M (Mature): Games that are suitable for players 17 years and older.
• AO (Adults Only): Games that are suitable for players 18 years and older.
• RP (Rating Pending): Games that have not yet been rated.

The ESRB also provides additional content descriptors to provide more specific information about the content of a game. These descriptors include violence, sexual content, language, and drug and alcohol reference.

It is important to note that the ESRB rating process is entirely voluntary, and game developers can choose to submit their games for rating or not. However, many game developers choose to submit their games for rating to ensure that their games are appropriate for their target audience.

Understanding the ESRB rating process is crucial for game developers who want to get their games ESRB rated. In the next section, we will explore the step-by-step guide for getting your game ESRB rated.

ESRB Ratings: What They Mean and How to Get the Right Rating

Understanding ESRB Ratings: Content Descriptors, Interactive Elements, and More

ESRB ratings are a critical aspect of game development, as they can impact the success of a game. It is important to understand the different elements that go into an ESRB rating to ensure that your game is rated appropriately.

Content Descriptors

Content descriptors are words or phrases that describe content in a game that may be objectionable to some audiences. These descriptors are used to provide additional information about the content of a game, beyond the overall rating. For example, if a game has violence, the ESRB may use a content descriptor such as “Blood and Gore” or “Intense Violence” to provide more specific information about the type of violence present in the game.

It is important to accurately categorize content in your game to ensure that it is appropriately rated. This can be done by carefully reviewing the ESRB’s content descriptor list and selecting the descriptors that best describe the content in your game.

Interactive Elements

Interactive elements refer to the ways in which players can interact with a game. This can include things like controls, gameplay mechanics, and user interfaces. These elements are important to consider when determining the appropriateness of a game for certain audiences.

For example, a game with a lot of fast-paced action may be rated differently than a game with a more relaxed pace. Additionally, games with complex controls or user interfaces may be more challenging for certain players, and may require additional explanations or tutorials to help players understand how to play.

It is important to consider the interactive elements of your game when determining the appropriate ESRB rating. This can involve testing the game with a variety of players to ensure that it is accessible and easy to understand for all audiences.

Other Factors

In addition to content descriptors and interactive elements, there are other factors that the ESRB considers when rating a game. These can include themes, language, and sexual content.

For example, a game with a strong sexual theme may be rated differently than a game with a more mild sexual reference. Similarly, a game with strong language may be rated differently than a game with only mild language.

It is important to carefully consider all of the factors that go into an ESRB rating when developing your game. This can involve reviewing the ESRB’s rating criteria and guidelines to ensure that your game meets the requirements for the rating you are seeking.

By understanding the different elements that go into an ESRB rating, you can ensure that your game is rated appropriately and can be successful in the marketplace.

Tips for Getting the Right ESRB Rating for Your Game

Provide Accurate and Detailed Information About Your Game

When submitting your game for ESRB rating, it is important to provide accurate and detailed information about your game. This includes information about the game’s content, themes, and any potential triggers for players. Be sure to include all relevant details to ensure that the ESRB ratings board has a complete understanding of your game.

Understand the Different ESRB Ratings Categories

It is important to understand the different ESRB ratings categories and what they mean. The ESRB ratings categories include Early Childhood, Everyone, Teen, Mature, and Adults Only. Each category has specific criteria that must be met in order to receive that rating. Understanding these criteria can help you tailor your game to meet the requirements for the desired rating.

Playtest Your Game with a Diverse Group of Players

Playtesting your game with a diverse group of players can help you identify potential issues or concerns that may arise during the ESRB rating process. This can help you address any issues before submitting your game for rating, which can ultimately lead to a smoother and more successful rating process.

Be Prepared to Address Any Concerns or Issues

If the ESRB ratings board raises any concerns or issues during the rating process, be prepared to address them in a timely and professional manner. This may involve making changes to your game or providing additional information to the ratings board. By being proactive and responsive, you can help ensure that your game receives the rating you desire.

Follow ESRB Guidelines and Requirements

It is important to follow all ESRB guidelines and requirements when submitting your game for rating. This includes providing accurate and detailed information, following the correct submission process, and adhering to any deadlines or timelines set by the ESRB. By following these guidelines and requirements, you can increase your chances of receiving the desired ESRB rating for your game.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for ESRB Rating

Misrepresenting Your Game’s Content

One of the most common mistakes that game developers make when applying for an ESRB rating is misrepresenting their game’s content. This can occur when developers attempt to downplay or hide certain aspects of their game in order to receive a lower rating, or when they fail to disclose all relevant information about their game’s content.

Misrepresenting your game’s content can lead to a rating that does not accurately reflect the actual content of the game. This can be problematic for several reasons. First, it can lead to consumer confusion and disappointment if the game is rated lower than expected based on its content. Second, it can damage the reputation of the developer and the ESRB if the misrepresentation is discovered after the game has been released.

To avoid misrepresenting your game’s content, it is important to be transparent and honest when applying for an ESRB rating. This means disclosing all relevant information about your game’s content, including any violence, sexual content, strong language, or other mature themes. It also means being truthful about the game’s intended audience and any special features or gameplay mechanics that may impact its rating.

In addition to being transparent and honest, it is also important to understand the ESRB’s rating system and the criteria that are used to determine ratings. This can help you to anticipate potential issues and ensure that your game’s content is accurately represented in your application. It can also help you to understand the potential impact of different ratings on your game’s marketability and consumer appeal.

Overall, misrepresenting your game’s content can have serious consequences for both the developer and the ESRB. To avoid this mistake, it is important to be transparent, honest, and knowledgeable about the ESRB’s rating system when applying for a rating.

Failing to Meet ESRB’s Technical Requirements

Meeting the ESRB’s technical requirements is crucial for a successful rating application. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Make sure your game is compatible with the latest operating systems, including Windows and Mac.
• Ensure that your game’s resolution and frame rate meet the minimum requirements specified by the ESRB.
• Provide a clear and detailed description of your game’s controls, including how to navigate menus and perform in-game actions.
• Submit your game in the appropriate format, such as PC, console, or mobile, and ensure that it is free of errors and bugs.
• If your game includes online features, provide information on how players can access and use them, including any age restrictions or parental controls.

By following these guidelines, you can increase your chances of a successful ESRB rating application and ensure that your game is compatible with a wide range of platforms and devices.

Not Being Prepared for the ESRB Ratings Process

As a game developer, it is important to understand that the ESRB ratings process can be a complex and time-consuming endeavor. One of the most common mistakes that developers make is not being prepared for the process. Here are some tips to help you avoid this mistake:

1. Familiarize yourself with the ESRB’s guidelines and policies: Before you submit your game for rating, it is important to familiarize yourself with the ESRB’s guidelines and policies. This will help you understand what the ESRB looks for in a game and what kind of content is acceptable.
2. Gather all necessary documentation: In order to get your game rated, you will need to provide the ESRB with a variety of documentation, including a completed application form, screenshots, and videos. Make sure you have all of the necessary documentation ready to go before you submit your game.
3. Have a clear understanding of your game’s content: It is important to have a clear understanding of your game’s content before you submit it for rating. This includes knowing the game’s storyline, gameplay mechanics, and any violent or sexual content. Having a clear understanding of your game’s content will help you answer any questions the ESRB may have during the ratings process.
4. Anticipate potential issues: Anticipate potential issues that may arise during the ratings process and have a plan in place to address them. For example, if your game contains violence, you may need to provide additional context or justification for the violence in the game.
5. Hire a consultant: If you are unsure about how to navigate the ESRB ratings process, consider hiring a consultant who has experience with the process. A consultant can help you prepare your game for submission and guide you through the process.

By following these tips, you can ensure that you are prepared for the ESRB ratings process and increase your chances of getting your game rated successfully.

Frequently Asked Questions About ESRB Ratings

What is the cost of ESRB rating?

ESRB Rating Cost

The Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) charges a fee for its rating services. As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the fee for a standard ESRB rating is $2,500 for a single platform, with an additional $500 for each additional platform. These fees may be subject to change, so it’s essential to check the ESRB website for the most up-to-date information.

Factors Affecting ESRB Rating Cost

Several factors can influence the ESRB rating cost, including the complexity of the game, the number of platforms, and the scope of the evaluation required. Here are some key factors that may impact the overall cost:

1. Platforms: The more platforms your game is released on, the higher the ESRB rating cost will be. Each additional platform will incur an additional fee, as mentioned above.
2. Complexity: Complex games with intricate features, multiple paths, or extensive user interaction may require a more extensive evaluation process, potentially increasing the cost.
3. Scope of Evaluation: If your game includes content that requires a more in-depth analysis, such as gambling elements, tobacco use, or explicit content, the evaluation process may take longer and be more expensive.
4. Custom Evaluations: In some cases, developers may request a custom evaluation, which could involve specific guidelines or requirements not covered by the standard rating system. Custom evaluations may come with an additional fee.

Payment Options and Invoicing

ESRB accepts various payment methods, including credit cards, wire transfers, and checks. Once the evaluation process is complete, you will receive an invoice detailing the fees associated with your rating. Payment is typically due within 30 days of receiving the invoice.

Tips for Managing ESRB Rating Costs

To minimize the cost of ESRB rating, consider the following tips:

1. Plan ahead: Schedule your evaluation well in advance to avoid rush fees or last-minute changes that may increase the cost.
2. Streamline your game: Minimize complexity and focus on the core elements of your game to reduce the evaluation time and cost.
3. Be transparent: Provide complete and accurate information about your game during the submission process. This will help avoid delays or additional evaluations due to incomplete or inaccurate information.
4. Consider the target audience: Design your game with the target age range and content guidelines in mind to reduce the likelihood of unnecessary restrictions or modifications.

By understanding the factors that influence ESRB rating costs and taking steps to manage expenses, you can ensure a smoother and more cost-effective evaluation process for your game.

Can I appeal an ESRB rating?

As a game developer, it is not uncommon to disagree with the rating that your game receives from the ESRB. In some cases, developers may feel that the rating does not accurately reflect the content of their game or that it was given incorrectly. Fortunately, the ESRB does allow for appeals of their ratings.

If you wish to appeal an ESRB rating, you should first review the rating summary that was provided to you. This summary will outline the specific reasons why your game was given the rating it received. If you believe that the rating is incorrect or does not accurately reflect your game’s content, you can submit an appeal to the ESRB.

To submit an appeal, you will need to provide additional information about your game and the reasons why you believe the rating is incorrect. This may include screenshots, video footage, or other evidence that supports your case. You should also include a detailed explanation of the changes you have made to the game since it was submitted for rating.

It is important to note that the ESRB will only consider appeals for games that have already been rated. If your game has not yet been rated, you cannot submit an appeal. Additionally, the ESRB reserves the right to deny an appeal if they believe that the original rating was accurate.

In summary, if you disagree with the ESRB rating of your game, you can submit an appeal. However, it is important to carefully review the rating summary and provide additional evidence to support your case.

How long does it take to get an ESRB rating?

Getting an ESRB rating for your game can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on various factors such as the complexity of the game, the number of submissions in the queue, and the time it takes for the ESRB to review and evaluate the game’s content. It’s important to note that the ESRB rating process is not instantaneous, and it requires patience and planning to ensure a smooth and timely review.

It’s essential to allow ample time for the ESRB to complete the rating process before your intended release date. You should submit your game as early as possible to avoid any delays that may impact your launch schedule. Additionally, you should also factor in any potential revisions or updates that may be required by the ESRB during the review process, which may add extra time to the overall rating timeline.

It’s also worth noting that the ESRB’s rating process may vary depending on the specific type of content in your game. For example, games with explicit sexual content or extreme violence may require additional review and evaluation, which can increase the overall rating time. It’s important to be aware of these potential factors and plan accordingly to ensure a successful ESRB rating and release of your game.

The Benefits of Getting Your Game ESRB Rated

• Gaining access to a wider audience: ESRB ratings provide players with essential information about the content of a game, which helps them make informed decisions about whether or not to play it. By obtaining an ESRB rating, you can expand your potential customer base and increase the likelihood of success for your game.
• Building credibility: A positive ESRB rating can lend credibility to your game and help it stand out in a crowded market. ESRB ratings are recognized and trusted by players, parents, and industry professionals, so having an ESRB rating can enhance the perceived quality and value of your game.
• Meeting industry standards: Most major gaming platforms and retailers require games to have an ESRB rating before they will distribute or sell them. Obtaining an ESRB rating ensures that your game meets industry standards and can be made available to a wider audience.
• Compliance with legal requirements: ESRB ratings are a key component of the legal and regulatory framework that governs the video game industry. By obtaining an ESRB rating, you can ensure that your game is compliant with all relevant laws and regulations, and avoid potential legal issues that could arise from distributing or selling unrated games.
• Facilitating parental control: ESRB ratings provide parents with valuable information about the content of a game, including its age-appropriateness, violence, language, and sexual content. By obtaining an ESRB rating, you can help parents make informed decisions about whether or not to allow their children to play your game, and support their efforts to monitor and control their children’s gaming habits.

Don’t Let ESRB Ratings Hold You Back: Get Started Today!

For many game developers, the thought of obtaining an ESRB rating can be daunting. However, it is important to remember that the ESRB rating system is in place to protect consumers and ensure that they are aware of the content in the games they play. By obtaining an ESRB rating, you can ensure that your game is accessible to a wider audience and that consumers are aware of the content in your game.

One of the biggest advantages of obtaining an ESRB rating is that it can help you reach a wider audience. ESRB ratings are used by retailers, including major online marketplaces, to help consumers make informed purchasing decisions. By obtaining an ESRB rating, you can ensure that your game is accessible to consumers who are looking for games with specific ratings.

Additionally, obtaining an ESRB rating can help you build credibility with consumers. The ESRB rating system is widely recognized and trusted by consumers, and having an ESRB rating can help establish your game as a legitimate and high-quality product. This can help you build a positive reputation and increase sales.

While obtaining an ESRB rating may seem like a daunting task, it is important to remember that the process is designed to be user-friendly and straightforward. By following the guidelines and requirements set forth by the ESRB, you can ensure that your game is rated accurately and that consumers are aware of the content in your game.

In summary, don’t let ESRB ratings hold you back. By obtaining an ESRB rating, you can ensure that your game is accessible to a wider audience, build credibility with consumers, and help establish your game as a high-quality product. Get started today and take the first step towards making your game a success!

FAQs

1. What is the ESRB and why do I need a rating for my game?

The ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board) is an organization that provides ratings for video games based on their content, with the goal of informing consumers about the age-appropriateness of a game. A rating from the ESRB can help your game reach a wider audience by indicating to parents and players that your game is suitable for a particular age group.

2. How do I submit my game for ESRB rating?

To submit your game for ESRB rating, you will need to create an account on the ESRB website and follow the submission process. This includes filling out an online application, providing information about your game, and paying a fee. You will also need to provide a build of your game for the ESRB to review.

3. What types of content are considered in the ESRB rating process?

The ESRB considers a wide range of content when rating a game, including violence, sexual content, language, and drug or alcohol references. The organization also evaluates the overall tone and impact of the game on players.

4. How long does the ESRB rating process take?

The ESRB rating process typically takes several weeks, depending on the complexity of the game and the workload of the ESRB staff. Factors such as incomplete submissions or additional content that needs to be reviewed can also impact the timeline.

5. Can I appeal an ESRB rating if I disagree with it?

Yes, you can appeal an ESRB rating if you believe it is inaccurate or does not accurately reflect your game. The appeals process involves submitting additional information and potentially providing a revised build of the game for review.

6. Do I need to pay for ESRB rating services?

Yes, there is a fee for submitting a game for ESRB rating. The fee covers the cost of the review process and is non-refundable, even if your game is not rated.

7. Can I advertise my game before it is ESRB rated?

No, you should not advertise or promote your game before it has been rated by the ESRB. Doing so can result in legal action and damage your reputation as a developer.

8. How should I prepare my game for ESRB review?

To prepare your game for ESRB review, you should ensure that it is fully functional and representative of the final product. You should also provide clear documentation and context for any potentially controversial content, such as violent or sexual scenes. It can also be helpful to have a clear understanding of the ESRB’s rating criteria and guidelines before submitting your game.

ESRB Video Game Ratings Guide