Parents' guide to video games
By Steven L. Kent,
Special for USA TODAY
You can't always judge a game by its rating.
On most PC and video game packages these days are age ratings based on the system created by the Entertainment Software Rating Board. The board evaluates the content of the game, then rates it according to the amount of offensive material it contains.
But ESRB ratings don't necessarily reflect the target market for games. Gran Turismo, a superb racing simulation for the Sony PlayStation, for example, has an "E" rating. That means that its content is appropriate for players ages 6 and up. It's physics and driving dynamics are so realistic, however, that most 6- to 8-year-olds will be frustrated and bored.
Here's a sampler of popular and promising titles with ESRB ratings and our suggestions on age appropriateness. Games are available now, unless otherwise indicated.
Early Childhood (EC)
Because most EC-rated products have an educational component, we asked Warren Buckleitner, editor of Children's Software Review for assistance. Having dedicated years to evaluating educational software, Buckleitner is recognized as a leading authority on the subject.
Elmo's Letter Adventure (NewKidCo, for PlayStation, appropriate for ages 4-5. ) There are very few EC-rated games for dedicated game systems at present, and this is one of the best on the market. In this graphically impressive game, kids help Sesame Street characters find the letters of the alphabet in six adventures.
Hello Kitty's Cube Frenzy (NewKidCo, for PlayStation, appropriate for ages 4-5.) Though this puzzle game has been deemed appropriate for children of all ages, Buckleitner cautions that it is really for children ages 4-up. |
