Violence in video game consoles: How can the information provided to consumers be improved?

Author

Catherine Goldschmidt, Danielle Charbonneau

Organization

Option consommateurs

Published

2002

Summary

This report studies the measures in place to inform consumers about the presence of violence in video games (specifically Sony, Nintendo and Microsoft products). In addition to independent research on the subject, Option consommateurs also conducted a survey asking Canadian consumers 1) what their habits are pertaining to purchasing video games, and 2) if they are satisfied with the present rating system. The investigation showed that a little more than half of consumers are very worried about the violence in video games. Option consommateurs has several recommendations, including: 1) improve the current ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board) rating system, and 2) create a committee of publishers, distributers and consumers to discuss video game violence.

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OCA Funded Research
This research received funding support through the Office of Consumer Affairs' Contributions Program.

Contact information

Source: Consumer Policy Research Database