Recital 35

Online games can take very different forms and can be divided into categories such as action, adventure, role-playing games, strategy, sports, simulation or puzzle games and are usually played on a PC, mobile device or console. Online games can provide minors not only entertainment, but also online environments for communication and social interaction, including for minors with disabilities. Multiplayer online games enable minors to engage with other persons and to build social connections across different age groups and geographical locations. Online games can also contribute to minor´s learning of coordination, cooperation and subjects such as science, mathematics and languages. Video gaming platforms enable users to play and create their own content or games, and disseminate them to the public. Both video games and video gaming platforms may present diverse risks to minors. This was also highlighted by the Report by the Co-Chairs of the Special Panel on Child Safety Online which highlighted that video games may expose children to harmful commercial practices or dangerous contacts and age classification systems may provide orientation and insights for parents and caregivers on game ratings.