The latest public service announcement campaign from the Entertainment Software Ratings Board has gotten some new allies. Continuing its attempt to educate parents on video games and their ratings, the ESRB has recruited members of the current roster of the New Orleans Saints football team. Drafted players include Marques Colston (#12) and Devery Henderson (#19), with appearances at the premiere event at a local Louisiana Gamestop by State Senator Daniel Martiny (R) and Representative Jeffrey Arnold (D).
“I play a ton of video games, and while most of them are OK for kids, some of them are clearly intended for older players,” said Colston. “They say the best defense is a good offense, and I know about good offense. A parent’s best defense against bringing home the wrong game for their child is to go on offense and use the ratings every time they buy or rent a game. You’re always better off when you know the play.”
“Being a father, I know how important it is for parents to have all the help they can get,” added Henderson. “The ESRB ratings give us the guidance and information that we need to make sure our kids are playing age-appropriate games. Marques and I are proud to be a part of this effort to educate parents throughout Louisiana and across the country.”
“If you’re a parent, you know how popular video games are these days. But what you may not realize is that video games are no different than movies and TV shows in that they are created for a diverse audience of all ages,” said ESRB president Patricia Vance. “That’s why the ratings are such an important tool, and why parents should use them regularly. Educating parents about the ratings is a valuable public service and we’re very appreciative of Marques’ and Devery’s support.”
“There’s no question that video games can be fun for the whole family, but choosing the right games is critical. Tools like the ESRB ratings are easy to use, and parents should use them each time they buy or rent a game for their children,” added State Representative Arnold. “The ratings give parents precisely the kind of guidance they need to bring home games they deem suitable for their children and families.”
This is what I like to see… stop scape-goating the industry and start educating the people.
I like the statement that the ratings for videogames are no different from the ones for tv shows or movies.