Arbeitsgemeinschaft Kinder- und Jugendschutz NRW - The descriptors are coming! Implementation of the JuSchG leads to innovations in USK labels

With the amendment of the JuSchG in 2021, a new basis for the assessment of digital games was also created. Since then, §10b of the JuSchG refers to risks to the personal integrity of children and young people - these can be risks from communication and contact functions, from purchase functions or from gambling-like mechanisms, for example.

Now the Entertainment Software Self-Regulation Body (USK) has also extended its test criteria. Starting Jan. 1, 2023, in-game purchases, chats and lootboxes, among other things, will be taken into account when evaluating games. Additional notices on the games should also show this on the game packaging.

What do these innovations mean for the assessment of digital games? What judging practice will become established at the USK? And what consequences will the new regulations have for on-site educational work?

CONTENTS
- legal overview of innovations in the JuSchG
- new regulations for the assessment of digital games by the USK
- insight into media pedagogical practice
- options for action for pedagogical professionals

REFERENCES
- Uwe Engelhard (Permanent Representative of the Supreme State Youth Authorities at the USK)
- Daniel Heinz (Spieleratgber NRW / fjmk)
- Britta Schülke (Managing Director AJS NRW)

Moderation: Matthias Felling (AJS NRW)

Further information: https://ajs.nrw/