- Games that include in-game purchases with a chance element will now be rated at least M, making them off-limits for players under 15 years old.
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Australia has introduced new classification regulations for games featuring in-app purchases with a gambling or chance component.
As highlighted on Vooks, Australia’s new “mandatory classifications” for games will take effect starting Sunday, September 22nd, 2024.
Games with in-game purchases involving chance will now receive a minimum rating of M, making them unsuitable for players under 15 years old.
Additionally, games containing interactive simulated gambling will automatically be rated R18+. This includes games where players can engage with slot machines in a casino setting, even if no real money is involved.
Non-interactive gambling elements are excluded from this ruling.
New classification guidelines
Games that incorporate chance-based mechanics or incentives, where real money cannot be used to acquire these rewards, are not impacted by the new classification regulations.
Similarly, games portraying casino themes, images, or environments that do not enable interactive gambling activities are also exempt from these changes.
These updated classification rules will only apply to games classified on or after September 22nd, 2024. Existing games will not require reclassification unless they undergo modifications or revocation.
