Video Game Age Restrictions

Video game aficionados might have to enter a credit card or find another way to verify their age before playing a networked game, thanks to a new push from advocacy groups who say they want to protect minors from in-game advertising messages. Not only young children are at risk, but the FTC "should seek ways to provide protections to teens," the coalition recommends. The Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood, has claimed that "Grand Theft Auto 3 portrays the brutal murder of women, minorities, the elderly, and police officers." Video games can contribute to "physical and mental-health problems," the American Academy of Pediatrics has warned.