We are hopeful that as the reforms are implemented we will see this overall grade continue to improve. Our research shows that media ratings continue to be confusing to parents. We renew our recommendation that the game, film, and television industries adopt a universal rating system that is administered independently. The industries' responses to this idea have been that such a system is not workable. However, our experience shows this is not true.
Parents report that it is easy to understand, reliable, valid, and easy to use.
The industry should aggressively continue their efforts to educate the public about game ratings. ARC should aggressively enforce the guidelines for marketing and advertising that it has developed and implemented. The retail and rental stores who have committed to policies preventing the sale or rental of adult games to children and teens should actively enforce them. The retail chains and independent stores that have refused to restrict access to adult games should do so. We call upon the public to exert pressure on them to adopt responsible policies.