PEGI is initiating a process to reclassify existing digital-only games that include loot boxes to a 16 rating

Games that feature paid random elements, like loot boxes, and were previously rated PEGI 3, 7, or 12 will now receive a PEGI 16 rating. This adjustment targets digital-only titles.

Connor Hinde, who serves as the policy manager for the Games Rating Authority (GRA), shared the update in a LinkedIn post. This change was implemented last week for certain digital games in the UK, under the GRA's administration of the PEGI system.

These revisions apply to games initially rated by either PEGI's Classic method or the International Age Rating Coalition (IARC) mechanism. All such games will fall under the new PEGI 16 - Paid random items classification.

With planned expansions through October, the GRA noted the swift and extensive re-rating process. Developers and publishers needing assistance can reach out to the PEGI Helpdesk for more information.

Earlier, in March, the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) decided against implementing the age-rating modifications announced by Pan-European Game Information (PEGI), citing potential user confusion.