The FTC has concluded a study in the United States in which they sent secret shoppers who were under the legal age into stores. These minors endeavored to purchase to video games that were above their age level. The results of the study were very interesting, and they prove that the the game industry CAN self regulate itself, and therefore the need for government intervention is moot. Hear that government? MOOT!
ESRB President Patricia Vance said: “The strong support that the ESRB ratings have enjoyed from retailers is crucial, underscoring their firm commitment to selling video games responsibly.
The FTC issued this report to Congress saying that, despite enforcement improvements across the board, “more needs to be done.”
Check out the full results: http://www.ftc.gov/opa/2011/04/violentkidsent.shtm
