A number of high profile UK games industry executives have praised the Department of Culture, Media and Sport’s decision to adopt PEGI as the sole age ratings system for videogames in the UK.

Neil Thompson, senior regional director of Microsoft’s UK and Ireland entertainment and devices division, told us: “Microsoft warmly welcomes the government’s announcement that it will introduce a single PEGI classification system for video games in the UK.
 
“We believe that the most important issue to be considered when addressing age classification is that of child safety. A single PEGI system is by far the best means of promoting child safety; particularly given the fact that PEGI is used for offline and online games in 29 countries across Europe. In a globalised market where children can play video games online across borders, this decision will give parents the clarity and consistency they need in deciding what games are appropriate for their children and in enforcing those decisions – now and in the future.”

David Yarnton, Nintendo UK general manager, said in a statement: “The gvernment has made the right decision. The PEGI age rating system is right for the protection of children as it is designed specifically for games and interactive content. As a global company we welcome the decision as mature and intelligent as it works across some 30 international territories.”

Rob Cooper, managing director of Ubisoft UK, also praised the decision and the “future proof” nature of the PEGI system. “PEGI Online is a key component of the system, ensuring that the government does not have to re-assess the entire system once again in 12 months’ time.”

Mike Hayes, president and CEO of Sega Europe, said: “This is an important decision for the UK public. PEGI is the only system that has the power to prevent games publishers distributing unsuitable content to children.”

Keith Ramsdale, general manager of EA UK, Ireland and Nordics, applauded the "collaboration between government and industry to find the best solution for consumers and for the UK marketplace.”