The authors reviewed 43 studies that evaluated online video gaming policies from around the world. The studies looked at policies designed to protect young people, including those that addressed age-inappropriate content, excessive gaming, loot boxes and other gambling-like features, and online safety.
The authors generally found that many gaming policies have not been thoroughly evaluated. Age rating systems can help parents and young people make informed decisions, but many youth still play games intended for older audiences. Restrictions on gaming time appear relatively easy to work around and have shown mixed results. Regulations that target loot boxes and gambling-like features, are often not complied with or enforced consistently. The findings can inform future research and policy efforts to improve gaming regulations designed to protect young people from harms.
