Age ratings question.

[QofDust]

In reading the descriptions of several different VN's in these forums I've noticed ratings like 16+ or 18+ etc. I was wondering if there are specific guidelines about what these ratings mean. Obviously if a VN is full of sex and violence it's 18+, but what do the other ratings mean?

In the one I'm writing, for example, the characters definitely have sex, but it's never depicted, or explicitly described. I have a similar situation related to violence. The protagonist and others are in mortal danger more than once, but there are no long graphic descriptions of violent acts.

Any thoughts or recommendations on this subject will be greatly appreciated.

[Hooves]

http://www.esrb.org/ratings/ratings_guide.jsp
http://www.ign.com/wikis/content-ratings/PEGI

These give you a good idea. My opinion is that if it's not described, and the violence isn't like gore scenes or anything. Then 16+ would be my suggestion. If it has sex scenes that are described and showed. It's definitely 18+ Just violence with gory, scarring images is 17+. If it's not any scenes like Higurashi if you read/watched it. With violence, and sex not being described or shown in a scary image. 16+

Edit: Finally finished explaining myself fully.

[papillon]

I was wondering if there are specific guidelines about what these ratings mean. Obviously if a VN is full of sex and violence it's 18+, but what do the other ratings mean?

There's not really a standardised listing because people have different opinions. Just about everyone agrees that if there's explicit sexual imagery it's 18+ but beyond that ideas vary. It's often better to have a small section where you list what the content warnings actually are so people can check for themselves.

[dramspringfeald]

I'll use the US Movie Rating system here.
Ask your self this question Is it for Kids?
G= Sure!
PG = Why not
PG-13 = Eh... maybe
R(MA - 16 Canada) = No,
M/AO = Oh HELL no!

if anything causes the next lvl then that's your new rating

[Greeny]

Do what you want. It's the internet.
Just keep in mind some sites won't host certain content.

[dramspringfeald]

NSFW Try using this chart Link <<< Its NSFW