Windows Store now accepting PEGI 18-rated games

In a wise rethink, Microsoft has decided to begin accepting PEGI 18-rating gaming titles for the Windows Store. This is great news for European Windows 8 users and developers alike, as it opens up the market for gaming titles which integrate the touch-centric OS features.

We first reported on this rather inept oversight from Microsoft in October. The gist of the issue lay in the lack of clarity between the different regional rating systems. The US adopts a ESRB system, whereas Europe and the UK use the PEGI system. Each system has a differing definition for what is termed “adult.”

A couple of weeks later the policy was changed for the US, allowing its users to access far more content. It now appears the UK and Europe have followed suit, but it only extends to games. Other content is still restricted if given a PEGI-16 rating or higher. Microsoft gave the following statement on its developer blog:

In welcoming PEGI 18 games into the Store, we again reinforce two principles—flexibility and confidence—fundamental to the Windows Store. We recognize that people have come to expect and appreciate rich gaming experiences on Windows and this includes games rated PEGI 18. We also want to ensure that every customer using the Store can browse and acquire apps with confidence

It seems Microsoft has come to its senses, now we can hopefully see more developers migrating their creations over to the Windows Store.