Safe Listening Habits with Video Games

Video games are a passion that engages millions of children and young people worldwide, offering not only moments of entertainment but also opportunities for socialization and learning. However, as with any digital activity, it’s important to adopt some precautions to protect health, particularly hearing.
The video game industry has collaborated with the World Health Organization (WHO) to provide players with options to help them make informed decisions about safe listening habits. With the contribution of Video Games Europe and the Global Video Game Coalition, the sector has actively participated in developing new ITU (International Telecommunication Union) guidelines for safe listening in video gameplay.

Why It’s Important to Protect Hearing When Playing Video Games 
Playing video games with the volume too high for long periods can pose a risk to hearing health, especially for younger players. The new guidelines have been designed to provide players with options to protect their hearing, inform them about these risks and promote safe listening practices without compromising the quality of the gaming experience.

Tools Available to Players 
Video gameplay devices and software already offer several features that help prevent hearing damage. Knowing them is the first step to making more informed choices. Some available options include:

• - User manuals and guides of video game consoles provide with information on how to play video games safely.
• - Volume restrictions that can only be modified/dropped/left by parents using a PIN on their children's accounts.
• - Automatic volume reduction when external audio devices like headphones are connected.
• - Volume controls, including for individual audio components, such as effects, dialogue, and music.

Some features designed for other purposes can also contribute to hearing protection, such as:

• - Parental control systems that allow limiting playtime, thus reducing prolonged sound exposure.
• - Subtitles and visual indicators, which help avoid relying solely on audio.

The Role of Parents 
Technology can do a lot, but parental involvement remains crucial. Talking to children about the importance of using moderate volume when playing video games and establishing responsible gaming rules together is the best way to promote healthy habits.

A Balance Between Fun and Well-Being 
Knowing the available tools and establishing an open dialogue with your children can make a difference in experiencing video games as a positive and safe activity. The video game industry continues to work to provide experiences that are increasingly mindful of health and well-being for all ages, showing that fun can go hand in hand with digital health care. Our campaign #SeizetheControls shares information and resources with parents.