Five video game buying tips for parents

Just as there are movies, TV shows and books that are inappropriate for young eyes, not all video games are ideal for players of all ages.

Granted, you already know this, thanks to widespread media coverage of many “Mature”-rated video games, such as the Grand Theft Auto series. I don’t think many parents want their 7 year-olds playing games where you can shoot police officers or pick up prostitutes — even if it is “just a game.” And imagine if you accidentally gave this kind of game as a gift to a child?

Considering the holiday season is upon us, the following are some helpful tips for parents (and/or gift-givers) buying video games, courtesy of the Entertainment Software Association of Canada (www.theesa.ca).

1. Check the recommended age ratings. An age rating is featured on the lower left of every game package, and it gives information as to age appropriateness. For example, “E” is for “Everyone,” “T” is for “Teen” and “M” is for “Mature.”

2. Read the back of the package. Called “content descriptors,” the back of the game box will tell parents why games are classified for certain ages. It might say something like “strong language,” “violence,” “blood” or “sexual references.”

3. Monitor your child’s game play. Sit down with your kids when they play these games so you can see what they do in them. Create a dialogue with your child about their game playing — their habits, feelings and with whom they play online.

4. Use the parental controls. All three video game consoles — Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and Nintendo Wii — all have built-in controls that allow parents to restrict content based on the age of the user. In most cases you can also set time limits for play.

5. Go beyond the box. There are many other resources for information about video games, including game reviews, trailers and demos, both online and in store. The Entertainment Software Rating Board website (www.esrb.com), for instance, will give you specific examples of what can be found in each new game.

By Marc Saltzman, MSN Tech & Gadgets

Posted at 11:55 AM in Games, Holiday Guide | Permalink

summary of the basics for parents as we near the last few days of christmas shopping.