New York — The vast majority of parents (83%) agree with video game ratings set by the industry's Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), according to a study conducted by Peter D. Hart Research Associates on behalf of the industry ratings group. The study showed 401 randomly selected parents a compilation of video footage from 80 recent console and PC games, and asked them to provide their own rating before being told of the ESRB rating. They were then asked to describe the ESRB rating as "about right," "too strict" or "too lenient." Parents found the ratings to be "about right" 83% of the time, and further found them "too strict" 5% of the time. In a separate announcement, eight members of Congress on Monday urged parents to check the ESRB rating on video games before buying them for their children this holiday season. The statement was endorsed by Senators Santorum, Kohl, Allen, and Ensign and Representatives Pelosi, Blunt, Hoyer, and Coble. "The ratings system makes it crystal clear whether or not the content of the video game is appropriate for young children. With such a vast array of games available, parents will be able to find a suitable gift for the all the kids on their list with just a pause to check the ratings," said Sen. Herb Kohl (D-WI).
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