Over the past decade, more video games have started including gambling-like content. Research shows links between gambling-like content in video games and problem gambling in real life. It can also have emotional and mental health impacts.
New classifications are in place to help you spot games with gambling-like content.
What are parental controls?
Parental controls can help you manage your child’s gaming experience and keep them safe while online. Many allow you to block access to content based on the classification.
Using parental controls, parents and carers can:
Set limits on screen time
Restrict in-game purchases
Block inappropriate content
Monitor online interactions.
Why are parental controls important?
Parental controls create a safer, age-appropriate gaming experience. They help parents and carers monitor and limit the type of content children can access.
This can support parents and carers to encourage healthy gaming habits and protect children from online risks.
How to access parental controls?
Parental controls are available on most gaming devices and platforms. For example, you can set up parental controls through the ‘Settings’ menu option on:
Gaming consoles (like PlayStation, Xbox or Nintendo Switch)
Mobile gaming (iPhone or android)
Within a video game
Computers.
Parental controls can sometimes be called ‘Family settings’ or ‘Parent settings’. User guides, manuals and online information for gaming consoles, mobile phones, video games and computers, can offer more specific advice about how to access and set up parental controls.
