Russia Launches Voluntary Experiment on Video Game Labeling
Experiment Aims to Protect Minors from Harmful Content
Russia has initiated a voluntary experiment that requires video game publishers to label their games with age ratings and content warnings. The experiment is part of a broader effort to protect minors from exposure to harmful content online.
Experiment Details
The experiment will run from September 1, 2023, to March 1, 2024. During this period, participating publishers will be required to label their games with the following information:
- Age rating (0+, 6+, 12+, 16+, 18+)
- Content warnings (e.g., violence, sexual content, gambling)
Publishers will also be required to submit a description of the game's content to the Russian Federal Service for Supervision of Communications, Information Technology, and Mass Media (Roskomnadzor).
Goals of the Experiment
The experiment has several goals, including:
- Protecting minors from exposure to harmful content
- Raising awareness of the potential risks associated with video games
- Promoting responsible gaming practices
Controversy and Concerns
The experiment has been met with mixed reactions. Some industry experts have expressed concerns that it could lead to censorship and stifle innovation.
However, the Russian government has maintained that the experiment is necessary to protect minors from the potential dangers of video games. The government has pointed to research linking excessive video game use to a variety of problems, including violence, addiction, and social isolation.
Next Steps
The results of the experiment will be used to inform future policy decisions regarding video game regulation in Russia. If the experiment is successful, the government may consider making the labeling system mandatory.
The experiment is a significant development in the regulation of video games in Russia. It will be closely watched by the gaming industry and other stakeholders around the world.
