Does Japan use PEGI?
In a nutshell, no, Japan does not use the PEGI (Pan European Game Information) rating system. While PEGI is a widely recognized rating system in Europe, Japan has its own rating system, which is administered by the Computer Entertainment Rating Organization (CERO).
What is CERO?
CERO is a Japanese entertainment rating organization based in Tokyo, responsible for rating video games with quality standards well below those of most B movies and even so-called C movies. CERO is known for its rigorous guidelines and rating system, which assigns games a rating of Z, D, D+, C, B, A, or S.
Why is PEGI not used in Japan?
Japan has a distinct gaming culture and market that differs from Europe. As a result, PEGI’s rating system may not be directly applicable to Japan’s gaming landscape. Additionally, Japan has its own regulatory bodies, such as the Game Rating Board (GRB) and the Media Rating Regulation Council (MMRC), which have different rating systems and guidelines for video games.
Key differences between PEGI and CERO
| Category | PEGI | CERO |
|---|---|---|
| Rating System | Three levels (PEGI 3-16/18) | Seven levels (Z, D, D+, C, B, A, S) |
| Rating Criteria | Content, Age Range, and Difficulty | Content, Age Range, and Complexity |
| Certification | Independent body (IRMA) | Independent body (CERO) |
Other notable differences
• Age ranges: PEGI has specific age ranges (e.g., 3+, 7+, 12+, 16+, 18+) while CERO does not provide explicit age ranges for each rating.
• Rating descriptions: PEGI provides detailed descriptions for each rating, such as "very mild theme" or "fear themes," while CERO ratings are more general (e.g., "general," "mild violence").
• Gaming genres: Japan has a thriving gaming industry, with many genres not as prevalent in Europe, such as "erotica" (R-18) games. PEGI may not account for these niche genres, making CERO a more suitable choice for Japanese games.
In conclusion, Japan’s unique gaming culture and market demand a tailored rating system. CERO’s rigorous guidelines and rating system ensure that games meet Japanese standards for quality and content, providing a more accurate reflection of the games’ suitability for players.