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. Whether you’re a seasoned developer or just starting out, this guide will provide you with valuable tips and tricks to help you navigate the ESRB rating process with ease. So, let’s dive in and get your game rated!

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

The ESRB Ratings System Explained

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 ratings system is used to classify video games based on their suitability for different age groups. The ratings system is as follows:

• EC (Early Childhood) – Games that are appropriate for children ages 3 and older.
• E (Everyone) – Games that are suitable for all ages.
• E10+ (Everyone 10 and older) – Games that are suitable for players 10 years of age and older.
• T (Teen) – Games that are suitable for players 13 years of age and older.
• M (Mature) – Games that are suitable for players 17 years of age and older.
• AO (Adults Only) – Games that are suitable for players 18 years of age and older.

The ESRB ratings system also includes a content descriptor system to provide additional information about the content of a game. These descriptors include violence, sexual content, language, and alcohol/tobacco/drugs.

It is important for game developers to obtain an ESRB rating for their game because it helps them ensure that their game is suitable for the intended audience. Additionally, many retailers will only sell games that have been rated by the ESRB, so obtaining a rating can increase the visibility and availability of a game.

The Benefits of Getting Your Game ESRB Rated

Obtaining an ESRB rating for your game can bring about several benefits, making it a crucial step in the development process. Here are some of the advantages of getting your game ESRB rated:

1. Access to a Wider Audience
   One of the primary benefits of obtaining an ESRB rating is that it allows you to access a wider audience. ESRB ratings provide parents and players with valuable information about the content of a game, enabling them to make informed decisions about whether or not it is suitable for their children or themselves. This can significantly increase the potential customer base for your game, making it more appealing to a broader range of players.
2. Enhanced Credibility
   Obtaining an ESRB rating can enhance the credibility of your game, as it demonstrates that you have taken the necessary steps to ensure that your content is appropriate and meets industry standards. This can help to build trust with players and increase the perceived value of your game, as it shows that you are committed to providing a high-quality and responsible gaming experience.
3. Increased Marketing Opportunities
   ESRB ratings can also provide additional marketing opportunities for your game. With an ESRB rating, you can promote your game to a wider audience, including parents and younger players who may be interested in age-appropriate content. This can help to increase visibility and generate more interest in your game, potentially leading to higher sales and a stronger reputation within the industry.
4. Compliance with Industry Standards
   Obtaining an ESRB rating is also essential for compliance with industry standards and regulations. Many retailers and platforms require games to have an ESRB rating before they will sell or distribute them, so obtaining a rating can ensure that your game meets the necessary requirements for distribution and sale. This can help to avoid any legal or regulatory issues that may arise from distributing unrated content.

Overall, obtaining an ESRB rating for your game can bring about numerous benefits, including access to a wider audience, enhanced credibility, increased marketing opportunities, and compliance with industry standards. By following the guidelines and tips outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can ensure that your game receives the appropriate ESRB rating and maximize its potential for success in the market.

The ESRB Rating Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Submitting Your Game for ESRB Rating

The first step in getting your game ESRB rated is to submit your game for review. Here are the details on how to do so:

1. Gather all necessary information

Before submitting your game for ESRB rating, you need to gather all the necessary information about your game. This includes the game’s title, publisher, developer, release date, and platform. You should also have a copy of the game’s code and any supporting materials, such as user manuals or marketing materials.

2. Fill out the ESRB submission form

The ESRB submission form is the primary means of submitting your game for review. You can find the form on the ESRB website. The form requires detailed information about your game, including the game’s title, platform, and target audience. You will also need to provide a detailed description of the game’s content, including violence, sexual content, language, and drug references.

3. Submit your game and supporting materials

Once you have completed the submission form, you can submit your game and supporting materials to the ESRB. You can either upload your game and materials to the ESRB’s online portal or send them via mail or email. The ESRB recommends that you include a cover letter introducing your game and explaining its content.

4. Pay the ESRB rating fee

Finally, you will need to pay the ESRB rating fee. The fee varies depending on the type of rating you are seeking and the platform of the game. You can find the fee schedule on the ESRB website. Once you have paid the fee, your game will be submitted for review.

Overall, submitting your game for ESRB rating is a straightforward process. By following these steps and providing all necessary information, you can ensure that your game is thoroughly reviewed and rated accurately.

Understanding the ESRB Rating Criteria

When it comes to getting your game ESRB rated, it’s important to understand the criteria that the ESRB uses to assign ratings. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Content Descriptors

The ESRB uses content descriptors to provide additional information about the content of a game. These descriptors are used in addition to the main rating and provide more specific information about the type of content players can expect to encounter in the game.

Examples of content descriptors include:

• Blood and Gore: depictions of blood or gore
• Drug Reference: references to drugs or drug use
• Strong Language: frequent use of strong language
• Sexual Content: depictions of sexual content or nudity
• Violence: depictions of violence

Age Appropriateness

The ESRB rating system is designed to provide parents with information about the age appropriateness of a game. The ratings are based on the following criteria:

• EC (Early Childhood): content suitable for all ages
• E (Everyone): content suitable for players of all ages
• E10+ (Everyone 10 and older): content suitable for players 10 and older
• T (Teen): content suitable for players 13 and older
• M (Mature): content suitable for players 17 and older
• AO (Adults Only): content suitable only for adults 18 and older

Rating Summary

The ESRB rating summary provides a brief overview of the content of a game and the reason for the assigned rating. This summary is provided to help parents make informed decisions about which games are appropriate for their children.

It’s important to note that the ESRB rating criteria are subjective and may vary depending on the individual reviewer. However, by understanding the criteria and how they are applied, you can increase your chances of getting your game rated accurately and efficiently.

How Long Does the ESRB Rating Process Take?

When it comes to the ESRB rating process, the time it takes to get your game rated can vary depending on a number of factors. In this section, we’ll explore some of the key factors that can impact the length of the ESRB rating process and provide some guidance on what you can expect.

Factors That Can Impact the Length of the ESRB Rating Process

• The complexity of your game: The more complex your game is, the longer it may take to get it rated. This is because the ESRB needs to carefully review every aspect of your game to ensure that it meets their guidelines.
• The completeness of your submission: If your submission is incomplete or if the ESRB needs additional information from you, this can slow down the process. It’s important to make sure that your submission is as complete as possible to avoid delays.
• The volume of submissions: The ESRB receives a large number of submissions, and the volume of submissions can impact the length of the rating process. If there are a lot of submissions, it may take longer to get your game rated.

What to Expect

On average, the ESRB rating process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. However, it’s important to note that this is just an estimate, and the actual length of the process can vary depending on the factors mentioned above.

If you’re concerned about the length of the ESRB rating process, it’s a good idea to communicate with the ESRB and ask for updates on the status of your submission. They will be able to provide you with more specific information about how long the process is likely to take for your particular game.

Overall, the ESRB rating process is an important step in getting your game ready for release. By understanding the factors that can impact the length of the process and what to expect, you can better plan for the development and release of your game.

How Much Does ESRB Rating Cost?

The cost of obtaining an ESRB rating for your game can vary depending on a number of factors, including the complexity of the game, the platform it will be released on, and the level of content being submitted for review. As of 2021, the base fee for an ESRB rating is $2,500 for console and PC games, with additional fees for online connectivity, downloadable content, and in-game purchases. However, these fees can be subject to change, so it’s important to check the ESRB website for the most up-to-date pricing information. Additionally, it’s worth noting that some game publishers may cover the cost of ESRB ratings as part of their marketing or publishing agreements, so it’s always a good idea to check with your publisher or distribution partner to see if this is the case.

Tips for Getting Your Game ESRB Rated

Common Reasons for ESRB Rejections and How to Avoid Them

As a game developer, it is important to understand the common reasons why the ESRB may reject your game’s rating application. Here are some of the most common reasons for rejections and tips on how to avoid them:

• Incomplete or inaccurate submission: The ESRB requires detailed and accurate information about your game to properly rate it. If your submission is incomplete or inaccurate, it may be rejected. To avoid this, make sure to provide as much detail as possible in your submission and double-check your information before submitting.
• Non-compliant content: The ESRB has strict rules about what types of content are allowed in rated games. If your game contains content that is not compliant with these rules, it may be rejected. To avoid this, review the ESRB’s content guidelines carefully and ensure that your game meets all of the requirements.
• Technical issues: Technical issues such as bugs or glitches can also cause your game’s rating application to be rejected. To avoid this, thoroughly test your game before submitting it for rating and fix any technical issues that you find.
• Violations of ESRB policies: The ESRB has policies in place to ensure that games are rated fairly and accurately. If your game violates these policies, it may be rejected. To avoid this, familiarize yourself with the ESRB’s policies and make sure that your game complies with them.

By understanding these common reasons for ESRB rejections and taking steps to avoid them, you can increase your chances of getting your game successfully rated.

How to Prepare Your Game for ESRB Rating

When it comes to getting your game ESRB rated, there are certain steps you can take to prepare your game for the rating process. Here are some tips to help you prepare your game for ESRB rating:

Check Your Game’s Content

The first step in preparing your game for ESRB rating is to ensure that your game’s content meets the ESRB’s guidelines. This includes checking the game’s content for any violence, sexual themes, drug use, or other mature content that may be inappropriate for certain age groups. You should also make sure that your game’s content is accurate and does not contain any false or misleading information.

Create a Rating Plan

To prepare your game for ESRB rating, you should create a rating plan that outlines how you plan to rate your game. This plan should include details about the game’s content, including any violence, sexual themes, drug use, or other mature content. You should also provide information about how you plan to handle any objectionable content in the game.

Include Detailed Instructions

When preparing your game for ESRB rating, it’s important to include detailed instructions for how to play the game. This includes instructions for how to control the game, how to progress through the levels, and how to use any special features or abilities in the game.

Test Your Game

Before submitting your game for ESRB rating, it’s important to test your game thoroughly to ensure that it works properly and meets the ESRB’s guidelines. This includes testing the game’s graphics, sound, and overall gameplay to ensure that it is free of bugs and glitches.

Submit Your Game for Rating

Once you have prepared your game for ESRB rating, you can submit your game for rating. This involves filling out an application form and paying a fee to have your game rated. It’s important to submit your game as soon as possible to avoid any delays in the rating process.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your game is prepared for ESRB rating and increase your chances of receiving a favorable rating.

How to Submit Your Game for ESRB Rating

In order to obtain an ESRB rating for your game, it is important to follow the proper submission process. Here are the steps to take in order to submit your game for ESRB rating:

1. Visit the ESRB website and create an account. This will allow you to access the rating submission system.
2. Once you have created an account, log in and navigate to the “Submission System” page.
3. On the Submission System page, you will find a list of required documents that must be submitted along with your game. These documents include the game’s title, platform, and publisher information, as well as the content description and rating descriptor forms.
4. Fill out all of the required forms and submit them along with any other required documentation. It is important to ensure that all information is accurate and complete, as any errors or omissions may delay the rating process.
5. After submitting your game, you will be able to track the status of your submission through the ESRB website. This will allow you to see if any additional information is needed, and when you can expect to receive your game’s rating.

By following these steps and ensuring that all required information is submitted accurately and completely, you can increase your chances of obtaining an ESRB rating for your game.

How to Respond to ESRB Feedback and Appeal Decisions

Responding to ESRB Feedback

When the ESRB provides feedback on your game, it is important to take it seriously and respond appropriately. Here are some tips for responding to ESRB feedback:

• Address all concerns: Make sure to address all of the concerns raised by the ESRB in their feedback. This will show that you are taking the feedback seriously and are committed to making any necessary changes to your game.
• Be proactive: Don’t wait for the ESRB to request changes. Take the initiative to make any necessary changes to your game based on the feedback provided. This will demonstrate that you are committed to ensuring that your game meets the ESRB’s standards.
• Communicate with the ESRB: If you have any questions or concerns about the feedback provided, don’t hesitate to reach out to the ESRB. They will be able to provide additional guidance and support to help you make any necessary changes to your game.

Appealing ESRB Decisions

If the ESRB denies your game a rating, or if they provide feedback that you disagree with, you have the option to appeal their decision. Here are some tips for appealing an ESRB decision:

• Provide additional information: If you are appealing an ESRB decision, make sure to provide additional information that supports your case. This could include gameplay footage, screenshots, or other evidence that demonstrates why your game should be rated differently.
• Address any concerns: If the ESRB has provided feedback or reasons for their decision, make sure to address these concerns in your appeal. Explain why you disagree with their decision and provide evidence to support your position.
• Be professional: When appealing an ESRB decision, it is important to remain professional and respectful. The ESRB is a professional organization, and they will be more likely to consider your appeal if you approach it in a professional manner.

Overall, responding to ESRB feedback and appealing their decisions can be a complex process. However, by following these tips, you can increase your chances of getting your game rated by the ESRB and ensuring that it meets their standards.

ESRB Rating FAQs

What is the ESRB?

The Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) is an American organization that was established in 1994 to provide ratings for video games and other digital entertainment products. The ESRB’s primary function is to ensure that consumers, particularly parents, have access to accurate and reliable information about the content of the games they purchase, enabling them to make informed decisions about the suitability of those games for their children.

The ESRB rating system consists of several rating categories, each designed to provide guidance on the age-appropriateness and content of a particular game. These categories include:

• EC (Early Childhood): Intended for users of all ages.
• E (Everyone): Suitable for players of all ages.
• E10+ (Everyone 10 and older): Appropriate for players 10 years of age and older.
• T (Teen): Recommended for players 13 years of age and older.
• M (Mature): Intended for players 17 years of age and older.
• AO (Adults Only): Designed for players 18 years of age and older.
• RP (Rating Pending): Indicates that the game has not yet been rated.

The ESRB also provides additional content descriptors to offer more specific information about potentially sensitive content within a game. These descriptors can include information about violence, sexual content, language, and other potentially objectionable material. By using these descriptors, developers can provide more accurate information about their games, allowing consumers to make informed decisions about the suitability of those games for their personal preferences and values.

How does the ESRB rating system work?

The Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) is a non-profit organization that assigns age and content ratings to video games in the United States and Canada. The ESRB rating system is designed to provide consumers with information about the content of a game so that they can make informed purchasing decisions.

The ESRB rating system consists of six rating categories: Early Childhood, 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.

To determine a game’s rating, the ESRB reviews the game’s content and assigns it to a rating category based on the guidelines set forth by the organization. The ESRB also provides a summary of the game’s content on its website, which includes information about the game’s rating, the level of violence, sexual content, and other mature themes, as well as a brief description of the game’s plot and gameplay.

Developers can choose to submit their game for ESRB rating or self-rate their game by following the ESRB’s self-rating guidelines. However, if a game is self-rated, it must include a disclaimer stating that the game has not been rated by the ESRB and that the developer has determined that the game is appropriate for a specific age group.

In summary, the ESRB rating system is designed to provide consumers with information about the content of a game and to help them make informed purchasing decisions. The ESRB reviews the game’s content and assigns it to a rating category based on the guidelines set forth by the organization, and developers can choose to submit their game for ESRB rating or self-rate their game by following the ESRB’s self-rating guidelines.

How can I appeal an ESRB decision?

If you disagree with the ESRB’s rating of your game, you have the option to appeal their decision. However, the appeal process can be lengthy and may not always result in a different rating.

Before appealing, make sure you have a clear understanding of the ESRB’s rating criteria and how your game meets or deviates from those criteria.

To appeal an ESRB decision, follow these steps:

1. Submit a written appeal to the ESRB, explaining why you believe the rating should be changed. Include specific examples and evidence to support your claim.
2. Wait for the ESRB to review your appeal. This process can take several weeks, so be patient.
3. If the ESRB decides to change your game’s rating, they will notify you of the new rating and provide an explanation for the change.
4. If the ESRB decides to uphold the original rating, they will provide you with a detailed explanation of why the rating was not changed.

Remember, the ESRB’s ultimate goal is to ensure that games are rated appropriately and accurately reflect the content they contain. As such, it’s important to approach the appeal process with an open mind and a willingness to understand the ESRB’s perspective.

Can I get my game rated by ESRB if it has already been released?

Is it possible to get a rating after the game’s release?

It is indeed possible to get your game rated by the ESRB even after its release. While it is recommended to submit your game for rating before release, the ESRB understands that some developers may not be able to do so. However, the process for getting a post-release rating is different from the pre-release process.

What are the steps to get a post-release rating?

To get a post-release rating, follow these steps:

1. Pay the required rating fee: You will need to pay a fee for the rating process, which may vary depending on the type of rating you are seeking.
2. Fill out the online rating application: Visit the ESRB website and fill out the online rating application, providing all the necessary information about your game.
3. Prepare your game for rating: Ensure that your game is in a finalized state and is complete, as the ESRB will evaluate the final version of the game.
4. Submit your game for rating: Once you have completed the application and prepared your game, submit it to the ESRB for review.
5. Address any issues or revisions: If the ESRB identifies any issues or concerns during the rating process, you may need to make revisions to your game before it can be rated.
6. Receive your rating: After you have addressed any issues and the ESRB has completed its review, you will receive your rating.

Remember that the post-release rating process may take longer than the pre-release process, as the ESRB must evaluate the final version of your game. It is important to follow the ESRB’s guidelines and adhere to their rules to ensure a smooth and efficient rating process.

What are the ESRB rules for online interactions?

The Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) has established strict guidelines for online interactions in video games. These guidelines ensure that the content of video games is appropriate for the intended audience. The following are some of the key rules for online interactions:

1. Chat Functionality: Online chat functionality must be disabled or limited to a password-protected parental control setting. The chat must also be moderated by a human, and any user-generated content must be filtered.
2. User-Generated Content: User-generated content, such as screenshots or videos, must be moderated by a human before being posted.
3. Player Interaction: Players must be able to block other players from their in-game experience.
4. In-Game Purchases: In-game purchases must be made through a password-protected parental control setting.
5. Online Multiplayer: Online multiplayer must be limited to players of the same age.
6. Violence: Graphic violence is not allowed in online interactions.
7. Hate Speech: Hate speech is not allowed in online interactions.
8. Gambling: Gambling is not allowed in online interactions.
9. Alcohol and Tobacco: The use of alcohol and tobacco is not allowed in online interactions.
10. Sexual Content: Sexual content is not allowed in online interactions.

It is important to note that these rules may vary depending on the type of game and the intended audience. Developers should consult the ESRB’s official guidelines for more information on specific rules and regulations.

The duration of the ESRB rating process may vary depending on several factors. Generally, it takes approximately 30 business days for the ESRB to complete the rating process, provided that all required materials are submitted promptly and completely. However, this timeline may be subject to change based on the complexity of the game, the volume of submissions, and other unforeseen circumstances.

It is essential to note that the ESRB rating process is not linear, and the timeline may fluctuate depending on the various stages of the evaluation. The evaluation process typically includes several stages, such as the initial review, content analysis, and final review. Each stage requires a thorough examination of the game’s content, and any delays in the submission of required materials may impact the overall timeline.

It is also important to keep in mind that the ESRB may request additional information or revisions to the game’s content if deemed necessary. This process may require additional time and effort from the developer, potentially affecting the overall duration of the rating process.

In summary, while the ESRB rating process typically takes approximately 30 business days, various factors may impact the timeline. It is crucial to submit all required materials promptly and completely to ensure a smooth and efficient evaluation process.

How much does it cost to get a game rated by ESRB?

One of the most common questions developers have when it comes to getting their game ESRB rated is how much the process will cost. The good news is that the cost of getting a game rated by ESRB is relatively low compared to other rating systems.

ESRB’s rating fees are determined by the complexity of the game being submitted. The cost can vary depending on factors such as the number of platforms the game will be released on, the level of interactivity, and the presence of user-generated content. Generally, the cost ranges from $275 to $3,750 per title.

It’s important to note that ESRB’s rating fees do not include additional costs associated with submission, such as shipping or courier fees, which can add up to around $50-$100 per title.

It’s also worth noting that ESRB offers discounts for early submissions and for submissions of multiple titles at the same time. For example, submitting your game before the release date can save you up to 25% on the rating fee. Additionally, submitting multiple titles at the same time can result in a discount of up to 20% per title.

Overall, the cost of getting a game rated by ESRB is relatively affordable, especially when compared to other rating systems. With the right preparation and knowledge of the process, you can ensure a smooth and cost-effective submission for your game.

What is the difference between ESRB and other rating systems?

While there are several rating systems for video games, the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) is the most widely recognized and respected in the United States. Unlike other rating systems, the ESRB focuses on providing information about the content of a game to help parents make informed decisions about what games are appropriate for their children. The ESRB’s rating system includes six categories: Early Childhood, Everyone, Teen, Mature, Adults Only, and Rating Pending.

The ESRB’s ratings are based on a variety of factors, including violence, sexual content, language, and drug or alcohol use. The organization also considers the age of the intended audience and the level of maturity required to understand and appreciate the content. The ESRB’s ratings are voluntary, meaning that game developers and publishers can choose whether or not to submit their games for rating. However, many retailers require ESRB ratings before they will sell a game, making it an important consideration for game developers.

In contrast to other rating systems, the ESRB provides detailed information about the content of a game, including specific examples of violence, sexual content, and other potentially objectionable material. This allows parents to make informed decisions about whether a game is appropriate for their children based on their individual values and concerns. Additionally, the ESRB’s ratings are updated regularly to reflect changes in the industry and cultural norms, ensuring that they remain relevant and useful to parents and other stakeholders.

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. These ratings help parents and other guardians make informed decisions about what games are suitable for their children. As a game developer, obtaining an ESRB rating is crucial to ensure that your game is accessible to the widest possible audience.

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

To submit your game for ESRB rating, you need to create an account on the ESRB website and fill out an online application form. You will be required to provide information about your game, including its title, genre, platform, and target audience. You will also need to upload screenshots, videos, and other relevant materials to help the ESRB assess your game’s content. Once you have completed the application, you will need to pay a submission fee and wait for the ESRB to review your game.

3. How long does it take to get an ESRB rating?

The time it takes to get an ESRB rating can vary depending on a number of factors, including the complexity of your game and the volume of submissions that the ESRB is currently processing. Typically, it takes several weeks to a few months to receive an ESRB rating, although some games may be expedited for an additional fee. It’s important to note that the ESRB’s rating process is rigorous and thorough, so it’s essential to be patient and allow enough time for the review process.

4. What factors does the ESRB consider when rating a game?

The ESRB considers a wide range of factors when rating a game, including violence, sexual content, language, drug and alcohol references, and other mature themes. The organization also takes into account the game’s intended audience and the potential impact of the game’s content on players. The ESRB uses a rating system that includes six categories: Early Childhood, Everyone, Teen, Mature, Adults Only, and Rating Pending. Each category has specific criteria that games must meet in order to receive that rating.

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

Yes, you can appeal an ESRB rating if you believe that it is incorrect or does not accurately reflect your game’s content. To appeal a rating, you must submit a written request to the ESRB, explaining why you believe the rating is inappropriate and providing additional information or materials that support your case. The ESRB will review your appeal and may request additional information or revisions before making a final decision. It’s important to note that appeals are only granted in rare circumstances, and most games will be rated as initially submitted.