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Overwatch 2 is the second installment of the multiplayer online team-based shooter released in May 2016. The sequel retains the same gameplay skeleton as the first game which involves two teams of five players engaging in combat on a futuristic version of earth. Due to depictions of violence and some strong language, the game is not considered suitable for children below a certain age. Here is all you need to know about Overwatch 2’s age rating.
What is Overwatch 2’s age rating?
Overwatch 2 has been assigned a PEGI 12 age rating by the Video Standards Council and a ‘Teen’ rating by the Entertainment Software Rating Board. Overwatch 2 has received this age rating because it features moderate violence and use of some strong language. The VSC detailed the reasons for a PEGI 12 age rating for Overwatch 2 stating that it “contains frequent non-realistic looking violence towards human-like and fantasy characters.” It also stated that “there is some sight of blood”, and characters “show little reaction to violence”, and “when characters are defeated, they fall to the floor and respawn.”
The ESRB’s ‘Teen’ rating indicates that the game’s content is generally suitable for ages 13 and up. The board noted that the combat features “frequent gunfire, explosions, and cries of pain.”
A game’s age rating is influenced by a number of factors including the nature of violence depicted, the presence of adult themes and use of substances. Organisations like the Video Standards Council assign age ratings for video games based on the Pan-European Game Information (PEGI) system. While classifying games the VSC looks at depictions of violence and bad language. It also looks for content that may induce fear, is sexually explicit or depicts the use of tobacco, alcohol or illegal substances. Based on these factors, VSC assigns age ratings like 3, 7, 12, 16 and 18 to games.
Similarly, the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) assigns age ratings for games releasing in Canada and the United States. The ESRB uses ratings like ‘Everyone’, ‘Everyone 10+’, ‘Teen, ‘Mature 17+’ and ‘Adults Only 18+’ with labels which include content descriptions.
