To play Genshin Impact, the official age ratings are generally 12 or 13 and up, depending on where you live. The Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) in North America rates it "T" for Teen (13+), while the Pan European Game Information (PEGI) rates it "12".

Genshin Impact is a popular open-world role-playing game where players explore the vast world of Teyvat, complete quests, and battle enemies using a team of characters. With its anime-inspired art style and engaging story, it's captured the attention of millions. But like many games, it comes with an age rating to help parents and players understand its content. Knowing these ratings can help you decide if the game is a good fit for you or someone you're responsible for.

Official Age Ratings Explained

Different rating systems around the world evaluate games based on their content, looking at things like violence, language, and themes. For Genshin Impact, the two main ratings to know are ESRB and PEGI.

The ESRB has given Genshin Impact a "Teen" rating, meaning it's generally suitable for ages 13 and older. This rating is given due to fantasy violence, mild language, mild suggestive themes, and the use of alcohol. Additionally, the ESRB notes that the game includes "Users Interact" and "In-Game Purchases (Includes Random Items)." This means players can talk to each other online, and there are items you can buy with real money that you don't know the exact contents of beforehand.

In Europe, the PEGI system rates Genshin Impact as "12," meaning it is not recommended for anyone under 12 years old. This rating mainly highlights the depictions of non-realistic violence against characters that look like humans.

It's worth noting that while these ratings exist, Genshin Impact doesn't have a strict age verification process, so younger kids might still be able to play.

When my niece first started talking about Genshin Impact, I admit I was a bit hesitant. She's a bit younger than the recommended age, and I'd heard whispers about "gacha" mechanics. I sat down with her and we looked at some gameplay videos together. I explained that while the fighting looked cool, some characters had outfits that were a bit grown-up, and that the game wanted you to spend money to get new characters. It really helped us talk about why those ratings exist and what to watch out for.

What Does This Mean for Players?

Understanding these ratings helps you look at the game's features more closely:

• Fantasy Violence: Combat in Genshin Impact involves using swords and magic attacks with bright lights and effects. Characters might cry out in pain and disappear when defeated, but there's no visible blood or gore.
• Mild Language: The game does contain some mild language, with words like "bastard" and "a*s" appearing.
• Mild Suggestive Themes: Some characters, especially female ones, have outfits that are a bit revealing, and certain camera angles or dialogue can be suggestive.
• Use of Alcohol: There's at least one scene where characters participate in a drinking game, leading to them appearing drunk with slurred speech.
• User Interaction: The multiplayer (co-op) mode lets you play with up to three other people, which could include strangers. It’s a good idea to be mindful of who you play with online.
• In-Game Purchases (Loot Boxes/Wishes): Genshin Impact has a "Wishes" system, which is like a loot box system. Players spend in-game currency (which can be bought with real money) for a chance to get new characters or weapons. This mechanic can feel a lot like gambling, and it's a major point parents often consider.

Personally, I've seen how easy it is to get swept up in wanting the newest character in a game with these kinds of purchase systems. I set a strict rule for myself - no impulse purchases. If I really want something, I wait a week to see if I still feel the same way. It helps me make sure I’m spending my money wisely, and it's a good habit to encourage in younger players too, especially with games like Genshin Impact where you can buy things that are randomized.

Genshin Impact offers a huge world to explore and a fun combat system. While the official ratings give a good guideline for age, the decision ultimately comes down to individual comfort levels and setting boundaries.

If you enjoy Genshin Impact and want to make in-app purchases for new characters or items, you can use Playstorm to redeem App Store or Google Play gift cards. We also offer Nintendo store vouchers for any Nintendo games you might play!