PEGI raises ratings for games with loot boxes to 16
Compiled from 8 sources · Updated 21 Oct 2026, 22:37 · AI-assisted, every point checked against its source · How we make our news →
What's changed
- 21 Oct 2026, 22:37: Evidence rating changed from Strong evidence to Confirmed.
- 21 Oct 2026, 22:37: Now Confirmed (was Strong evidence): EA Sports FC 27 has been rated PEGI 16 in Europe.
PEGI has confirmed it is re-rating existing digital games with loot boxes to a 16 rating. The change applies to games like EA Sports FC 27 and Pokémon Go. PEGI says the update is part of new rules to classify paid random items as PEGI 16. The move is being rolled out progressively through October.
At a glance
- PEGI has re-rated games like EA Sports FC 27 and Pokémon Go to PEGI 16 due to loot boxes.
- The new rules apply to all digital games with paid random items, including time-limited offers.
- PEGI will continue updating ratings through October, affecting multiple titles.
How sure can we be?
The changes are confirmed by PEGI and multiple independent sources. The company has provided official statements, and the process is ongoing. No major contradictions have been reported.
What it means for you
Gamers and buyers should expect more games to carry a PEGI 16 rating due to loot boxes. This may affect age restrictions and availability in certain regions.
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Sources (9)
- GamesIndustry.biz: PEGI begins moving existing digital-only games with loot boxes up to a 16 rating
- Eurogamer: European age-ratings body PEGI begins raising age-limit of loot box games, like EA Sports FC, to 16
- PC Gamer: EA Sports FC 27 gets a PEGI 16 rating in Europe because of loot boxes
- Video Games Chronicle: EA Sports FC and Pokémon Go age ratings bumped to 16 in PEGI loot box crackdown
- TechPowerUp: EA Sports FC 27 Rated PEGI 16 in Europe as Loot Box Rules Kick In
- Rock Paper Shotgun: Games with loot boxes and other "paid random items" re-rated PEGI 16 as new rules come into force, hopefully cutting down on kids gambling somewhat
- linkedin.com
- Pocketgamer Biz (pocketgamer.biz)
- PC Gamer
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