ELSPA say most games are nice, not nasty

To coincide with the introduction of new age-rating symbols on videogames packaging, ELSPA also state today that, contrary to what some people think, videogames aren't overtly violent or sexual in content.

ELSPA, in association with the Video Standards Council, have been regulating the industry's voluntary age rating code of practice. They say that during the last six years they've been running the system, a mere 0.43 per cent of games have required an 18+ age rating. Roger Bennet, ELSPA's Director General, explained the reason for the new-look age symbols, saying, "The clarity of the new symbols makes the age suitability unequivocal and we think that, in the run up to Christmas particularly, this will be welcomed by most parents and other gift buyers." So there should be no excuse now for Granny to buy GTA2 for 10- year-old little Johnny.