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Parents: Enforce ESRB Rating Restrictions the Easy Way...
Company: Fire International
Product: Xploder Parental GameLock
Fire International has introduced a new, unique product from their Xploder line - the only system available to help parents and guardians protect their children from playing PS2 games that contain inappropriate content.

Xploder Parental GameLock is a combination of unique proprietary software and an innovative locking device (X-Lock) that has been designed to prevent children from removing the memory card that stores the data - it is the only system available to help parents and guardians control the content of their children's PS2 gaming.

It is difficult for parents/guardians to stay abreast of all of the latest game releases, let alone keep up to speed with their suitability for children. Xploder Parental GameLock means parents can leave their children to play PS2 games unsupervised, whilst safe in the knowledge that they will not be viewing unsuitable content.

Xploder Parental GameLock software incorporates publicly available data from worldwide certification bodies including BBFC, PEGI, ESRB, OFLC and USK. By combining this data with the unique X-Lock device, parents can upload the information to the memory card and lock it in place, so that it cannot be removed, allowing only suitable games to be played. Updates are available via a broadband enabled PS2 or can be downloaded to a USB device and parents can add new game details via the easy-to-use menu system.

The Xploder Parental GameLock is simple to use, and is already preinstalled with age ratings for thousands of PlayStation 2 games. The on-screen installation wizard allows parents to simply set their child's age and Xploder Parental GameLock ensures that no games with a rating that is higher than the age selected can be played. Once the X-Lock and memory card (required for use, not included) are in place, there is no need to remove the device as the GameLock data is stored on the user's memory card, which is locked in place and accessed each time the PS2 is turned on.

Video games appeal to a wide spectrum of ages and it is understandable that games styles and content reflect the diverse audience that gaming now attracts. The gaming industry, with assistance from various Governments is taking significant steps to restrict the sales of more adult themed games from minors, with the implementation and enforcement of age ratings systems. Xploder Parental GameLock stands to serve as an important tool in allowing parents to censor what their children can play when they're not around.

The Xploder Parental GameLock is slated to be available June 2007 from the Xploder website for just £19.99 (Approximately $29.99 USD).



-Geck0, GameVortex Communications
AKA Robert Perkins
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