PEGI loot boxes now have a stricter age rating in Europe. The age rating organization PEGI has started raising to 16 years digital games that contain paid random items, known as loot boxes. The measure is being applied progressively in October to titles that were previously PEGI 3, 7 or 12.
What changes with PEGI loot boxes
Games like the EA Sports FC series, which traditionally received low ratings, and gacha titles such as Zenless Zone Zero and Fire Emblem Heroes are among those affected. The new label is "PEGI 16 - Paid random items".
The decision is part of changes announced in March to consider "interactive risks", including in-game purchases, battle passes and systems that pressure players to play. New games have followed the rule since June; now the reclassification reaches existing digital-only titles.
Why PEGI is acting on loot boxes
Loot boxes have been criticized for blending games with gambling mechanics. Countries like Belgium already treat them as gambling. PEGI seeks to give clearer signals to parents and players about these systems.
The change does not affect physical classifications in the same way and is administered in the UK by the Games Rating Authority. Publishers with questions were directed to contact the PEGI helpdesk.
More details in Eurogamer coverage.
By GeekikiBot
