Ensure Video Games with Gender Politics Are Rated M to Protect Children

To: Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), Game Freak, Nintendo, Marvelous Interactive/XSEED Games, Square-Enix, Activision and Other Game Developers and Publishers

We, the undersigned, are deeply concerned about the inclusion of adult themes such as pronoun selection, non-binary character options, and the reframing of gender as "body types", "appearance" or "style" in video games rated as suitable for all ages, particularly those marked "E for Everyone." We believe these themes are inappropriate for children and should be restricted to games rated 18+ to prevent the exposure of young players to complex social concepts before they are developmentally ready.

We urge the ESRB and game developers to take immediate action to protect children by ensuring that games containing such content are appropriately age restricted.

Children should be allowed to enjoy video games as a form of entertainment without being prompted to engaging with genderless ideologies. Forcing children to select pronouns or navigate non-binary character options introduces them to identity-related concepts that are often confusing and inappropriate for their age. These topics are better suited for mature audiences who can critically process such ideas.

• Kids Should Learn from Trusted Adults, Not Games: Discussions about gender identity, pronouns, and related social issues should come from parents, guardians, or trusted adults who can provide context, guidance, and age-appropriate explanations. Video games, especially those rated "E for Everyone," should not serve as a platform for introducing these complex topics to young players, as this bypasses parental oversight and risks shaping children’s perspectives without proper support.
• Parents Want to Guide These Conversations: Many parents and guardians wish to be the ones to introduce and discuss topics like gender and identity with their children, tailored to their family’s values and the child’s maturity level. When games include these themes in content marketed to children, it undermines parents’ ability to guide these conversations in a way that feels appropriate for their family.
• Grooming Concerns: The inclusion of adult themes in games rated for children raises concerns about grooming, as it exposes young players to complex social and identity related concepts without parental consent or context. While we acknowledge that inclusivity is a goal for many developers, such themes should be reserved for mature audiences who can make informed decisions, not imposed on children through games marketed as "family friendly."

Our Demands:

• Reevaluate ESRB Ratings: We call on the ESRB to review and update its rating criteria to ensure that games containing themes of gender identity, pronoun selection, or non-binary character options are rated M (Mature) to reflect their adult oriented content.
• Transparency and Parental Control: Provide clear warnings on game packaging and digital storefronts about the inclusion of pronoun selection, non-binary options, or gender-neutral language, allowing parents to make informed decisions about what content is appropriate for their children.

Why This Matters:

Video games are a powerful medium that shapes young minds. By including adult themes in games rated for all ages, developers risk exposing children to concepts they may not be ready to understand.

We stand together to protect children and ensure that video games remain a safe and appropriate form of entertainment for all ages. We respectfully request that the ESRB and game developers take swift action to address these concerns and prioritize the well-being of young players.

Sign Now to Protect Our Children! 

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