ESRB

Arts & Entertainment abbreviation · Video Game

ESRB
Stands forEntertainment Software Rating Board
CategoriesArts & Entertainment

ESRB stands for Entertainment Software Rating Board, a video game abbreviation.

Self-regulatory organization that assigns age ratings and content descriptors to video games and apps in the United States and Canada. Ratings appear on boxes and digital storefronts.

Example: The ESRB rated the game M for blood and gore, intense violence and strong language.

Usage notes

Founded in 1994 by the industry after congressional hearings in 1993 criticized violent games such as Mortal Kombat and Night Trap. Retailers enforce ratings voluntarily. Ratings include E, E10+, T, M and AO, plus RP for pending.

More video game abbreviations

  • DLC – Downloadable content
  • DPS – Damage per second
  • E – Everyone
  • E10+ – Everyone 10+
  • E3 – Electronic Entertainment Expo
  • EA – Early access
  • F2P – Free-to-play
  • FOV – Field of view
  • FPS – First-person shooter
  • GaaS – Games as a service
  • GBA – Game Boy Advance
  • GDC – Game Developers Conference

See all 58 video game abbreviations →