It's a hot item this time of year. Video games are at the top of many youngsters Christmas lists. But there are some games that are appropriate for children and some that are not. It's the reason for a new campaign. It's meant to encourage parents to look closely at the ratings.
Allen Maul is a father of five.
"I don't agree with all the games that are out but I'd rather have my kids home playing the games," says Maul.
The games have all sorts of ratings. They range from "E" for everyone to "A" for adults.
"It keeps them home," says Maul. "They're not out stealing cars."
Maul says some parents just don't check whether the video games are age appropriate.
"They don't have time. Everybody has to work," he says.
Senator Glenn Coffee, (R) Okla., says, "I'm a father of four children and I see this as a growing entertainment option for kids."
Coffee is the face a new public service announcement. He teamed up with the Entertainment Software Rating Board. It's the group behind the ratings.
"Be informed, learn the system and use it," says Senator Coffee.
Patricia Vance is the E.S.R.B. President.
"There are lots of places on the internet and in print that parents can turn to for detailed reviews," says Vance.
The E.S.R.B. reviews and rates more than 1,200 games a year. Officials say a majority of those are rated "E" for everyone. They say only eight percent were rated "M" for mature last year.
For more information on the ratings system go to www.esrb.org.
