Epic Introduces Age Ratings for Fortnite Content
Epic has announced a significant update to its popular game Fortnite, as it continues its evolution into a “multi-game ecosystem.” The company will now introduce individual age ratings for all playable content in Fortnite, including both first- and third-party experiences. This move comes as Epic places a greater emphasis on third-party developed content, with the goal of turning Fortnite into a creator-led platform similar to Roblox.
Mandatory Age Ratings
Starting from November 14th, 2021, age ratings will be mandatory for all playable experiences in Fortnite. These age ratings will be assigned based on the content of each experience, utilizing the process established by the International Age Rating Coalition (IARC). Creators will be required to submit a questionnaire detailing the content, and the IARC will automatically assign the appropriate region-specific age rating and content descriptors. Participating rating authorities, such as PEGI, ESRB, USK, and ACB, can then modify these assigned ratings if necessary.
Commitment to Family Safety
Epic’s implementation of the IARC rating system within Fortnite demonstrates its commitment to providing families with tools to make informed decisions about the content their children consume. This move is particularly significant as Fortnite expands beyond its Battle Royale roots into a broader ecosystem that encompasses a variety of content from Epic and other creators. By ensuring clear age ratings, parents can have a better understanding of what their children are accessing and make appropriate choices.
New Parental Control Options
Alongside the introduction of age ratings, Fortnite will also release new parental control options. These options will allow parents to universally block islands with ratings above a certain threshold. Parents can unlock specific islands above this threshold using a PIN, and they can also prevent children from designing their own Creative Mode levels if desired. These additional measures give parents greater control over their children’s gaming experiences.
Acknowledging the Importance of Creator Content
Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney recently acknowledged that the growth of Fortnite has been driven primarily by creator content. In a statement, Sweeney highlighted the significant revenue sharing model employed by the company to attract creators. However, he also noted that this model is a “lower margin business” compared to the early success of Fortnite Battle Royale. This admission came as part of a larger announcement regarding the company’s decision to lay off a portion of its workforce.
Overall, Epic’s introduction of age ratings for Fortnite content marks a significant step in prioritizing player safety and providing parents with the necessary tools to ensure appropriate gaming experiences for their children. As Fortnite continues to evolve and expand its ecosystem, these measures will play a crucial role in maintaining a safe and enjoyable environment for all players.
Are you excited about the new parental control options in Fortnite? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!