Marvel Alters Ratings System

Diamond announced that Marvel Comics have revamped their ratings system, again. They’ve slimmed down to just 4 ratings: All Ages, Marvel PSR (“Parental Supervision Recommended”), Marvel PSR + and Parental Advisory/Explicit Content. These changes will take affect with October’s books.

Not much of a change from their previous ratings system, the biggest change I see is in the naming, as they shy away from using the MPAA Movie like ratings of PG etc.

I wonder how strict retailers are in keeping with these ratings and not letting MAX Titles fall into the hands of 12 year olds. Then again, are 12 year olds really trying to get the explicit content in comic books?

Here is the break down of what each rating means:

All Ages – 8+ years old
These titles, which will carry no cover label, are appropriate for readers of all ages.

Marvel PSR (“Parental Supervision Recommended”) – 12+ years old
Appropriate for most readers, but parents may want to read before or with younger children.

Marvel PSR+ – 15+ years old
Similar to Marvel PG, but featuring more mature themes and/or more graphic imagery. Recommended for teen and adult readers.

Parental Advisory/Explicit Content – 18+ years old
May contain content similar to an R-rated movie (harsh language, graphic violence, mature themes, nudity). Most will fall under the MAX Comics banner, while some may include Epic titles, and all will be designed to appear distinct from mainstream Marvel titles with prominent “Parental Advisory/Explicit Content” labeling. They will not be sold on newsstands, nor targeted at younger readers.

Comments

  1. I wonder how strict retailers are in keeping with these ratings and not letting MAX Titles fall into the hands of 12 year olds. Then again, are 12 year olds really trying to get the explicit content in comic books?

    I’d guess that they’re probably not being that strict. I’d also guess that there aren’t that many 12 year olds left buying comics to worry about it.

    Conor

  2. when asked about selling comics meant for adults a retailer responded

    What the fuck…..no I do not sell adult material to underage individuals.

    i see the point of not selling some kid a cherry poptart, but something like punisher or authority i don’t see anything wrong with selling to 8yr olds. if it’s what their reading and what their interested in i say go for it.