The German Games Industry Association has raised concerns that the EU KIDS Act might disrupt the current age-rating systems for video games

The German Games Industry Association, known as Game, has expressed concerns regarding the EU KIDS Act. Introduced in draft form in September, the legislation, when enacted, may significantly impact game developers by potentially altering national age-rating frameworks.

Germany depends on the USK system for determining video game age suitability, while PEGI is preferred in many other European nations. Game argues that the introduction of new, Europe-wide guidelines as envisioned by the act could result in discrepancies, with the same game receiving different age ratings in various outlets, thereby diminishing the importance of USK.

Although the KIDS Act predominantly targets social media networks by suggesting a ban for users under 13 and limitations for those under 15, it also presents notable changes for online gaming. The act includes a stipulation for a binding age-rating framework that transcends pre-existing systems.

Game advocates for the EU KIDS Act to support and improve upon the existing USK and PEGI systems, rather than instituting wholly new protocols. Recently, in 2023, the USK system underwent reforms to incorporate factors like loot boxes and digital interaction in its ratings. Similarly, PEGI also adapted by assigning a 16+ rating to games containing loot boxes.

Felix Falk, managing director of Game, stated, "The European Commission is under considerable pressure to promptly update youth protection regulations for social networks. Consequently, effective youth protection measures within gaming could become unintended casualties."

Falk further asserted that the EU KIDS Act should adhere to the established USK and PEGI ratings that have long been trusted by parents. He emphasized the distinction between games and social media, insisting that games require tailored regulations. Protecting children's rights and enabling them to play are paramount, thus reinforcing self-regulation policies is crucial.

In its recommendations, Game urges that video games be distinctly categorized from social networks, with protection and age verification dictated by actual risk assessments and self-regulatory principles.

The organization also called for the EU KIDS Act to enhance parental control features within gaming platforms, allowing parents to make informed choices about their children's exposure. It cautioned against sweeping restrictions that could unduly impede parental authority or the digital engagement of young users.