In a recent GameStar Talk, psychiatrist Dr. Daniel Illy sharply criticized the USK (German Entertainment Software Self-Regulation Body). He argued that age ratings of 12 years and older for games with in-game shops, such as EA Sports FC, legitimize gambling for children. He also claimed that warning stickers on game packaging are ineffective against psychological tactics like FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) and questioned whether the USK is too close to the gaming industry.
Now, the USK is responding. Lea from GameStar is joined by Elisabeth Secker, the managing director of the USK, to directly address these accusations.
We take you behind the scenes to understand the intricate process of game evaluation, including the roles of committees and game testers. The discussion also delves into why the USK does not consider in-game purchases inherently dangerous for 6-year-olds. Furthermore, the program clarifies a common misconception within the community: why the USK was not responsible for the disappearance of numerous indie games on Steam in 2024.
What are your thoughts? Do the USK’s arguments convince you? Do we need more parental responsibility, or stricter government regulations? Share your opinions in the comments below!
English Translation:
In the latest GameStar Talk, psychiatrist Dr. Daniel Illy levied strong criticism against the USK (German Entertainment Software Self-Regulation Body). He argued that age ratings of 12 and above for games featuring in-game shops (like EA Sports FC) legitimize gambling in children’s rooms. He also asserted that warning stickers on packaging are entirely ineffective against psychological tactics such as FOMO. Furthermore, he directly questioned: Is the rating authority too close to the industry?
Now, the USK is offering its perspective. Lea hosts Elisabeth Secker, the managing director of the USK, to directly address these accusations.
We offer a look behind the scenes: How exactly does a rating process involving committees and game testers work? Why does the USK not view in-game purchases as a threat for 6-year-olds per se? We also debunk a major community misconception: why the USK was actually not responsible for the many indie games that disappeared from Steam in 2024.
Let us know in the comments: Are you convinced by the USK’s arguments? Do we need more personal responsibility from parents, or tougher laws from the state?