Understanding IGRS Komdigi: The Age Rating System for Games at the Centre of Controversy

The game rating system on the Steam platform is currently under the spotlight following the discovery of several game titles displaying age classifications deemed odd for the Indonesian market. This controversy arose when netizens found age labels that were considered inappropriate for the game’s content. On one hand, there are games containing adult or sexual content that are instead given a 3+ rating, meaning they are safe for children aged three and above. On the other hand, several popular AAA games such as Clair Obscure: Expedition 33 and Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater have been marked as “not suitable for distribution in Indonesia”. These findings were then widely shared on platform X by Indonesian gamers via screenshots, sparking questions about the accuracy of the classification system displayed on Steam. This situation has also drawn in the Indonesia Game Rating System (IGRS), Indonesia’s official game classification system, as the displayed age labels are seen as confusing and potentially misleading to the public. So, what is IGRS? Here is the explanation. IGRS is Indonesia’s game age classification system aimed at providing guidance on the appropriate age for players, while also helping the public, especially parents, understand the content of games circulating in Indonesia. Minister of Communication and Digital Meutya Hafid stated that this rating system will support Indonesia’s gaming industry. “In addition, parents can be more at ease. Children can avoid content that is not suitable for their age,” said Meutya. IGRS will help provide information on age classification and content in games circulating in Indonesia, taking into account national social norms, cultural values, and compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Through this system, publishers or game developers are required to register and classify online. The process begins with self-assessment, followed by verification by the IGRS party. This is also emphasised by the Director General of Digital Ecosystem at Komdigi, Edwin Hidayat Abdullah. “Developers are required to assess themselves for what age the game is suitable to be played, then we will conduct routine checks to ensure its suitability,” said Edwin. Summarised from the IGRS.id website, the game classification process in IGRS is carried out online.