Video games

Unrestricted video games do not need to carry classification labels. This is because they are exempted from labelling requirements under the Classification Act.

Although unrestricted video games are currently exempt from classification, they have usually been rated elsewhere (such as in Australia or the US) and often carry classification labels from those countries.

There is debate as to whether unrestricted video games should be required to carry New Zealand classification labels. This was not a requirement in the Classification Act because when the law was drafted in the early 1990s video games were very basic, with simple and unrealistic graphics.

Restricted video games can’t be supplied to anyone underage. This law applies to retailers supplying video games over the internet, in stores, and to parents or caregivers supplying video games in the home.

Most major gaming platforms (like PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo or Steam) display New Zealand classification labels for age-restricted video games.

Video games on mobile app stores like Google Play Store or Apple App Store don't currently display official New Zealand classification labels.

A few video games have been classified as objectionable (banned) by the Classification Office. A classification of objectionable means that it is illegal to import, download, distribute or possess these video games in New Zealand.

You can search for video game classifications here.

Why do some games have NZ classifications but others don’t? The answer is that not all games need to come through our Office for classification. So not all games sold in Aotearoa have a NZ classification or rating.

We know from Interactive Games & Entertainment Association research that online/downloadable games are increasingly popular in New Zealand, and mobile phones are the most common devices for playing games.

However, usually only physical media is covered by the Films, Videos, and Publications Classification Act 1993. This means that most games sold as downloads, apps or online-only don’t have NZ ratings and classifications displayed. Games that don’t have content that might get an R rating also don’t get rated, online or not.

You may see international classification labels on online game stores.

For more information: Our resource provides a guide to international classifications.