Due to the interactive, non-linear nature of Video Game submissions, the BBFC examines them in a different way to film and video, with examiners sampling different levels and areas of gameplay in order to build up an accurate indication of the issues contained within the game. This sampling is due to the fact that, for most games, viewing every possible element would be extremely difficult in terms of time and logistics.
Where there is linear material (commonly referred to as a 'cutscene') in a game, this is viewed in full, as it triggers none of the difficulties associated with non-linear material.
As more and more games are featuring cutscenes generated dynamically within the game engine, rather than using pre-rendered footage, the time has come for the BBFC to clarify our position on what is required as part of a Video Game submission in order for us to ensure we are viewing all necessary footage.
We have taken this opportunity to update our Video Games Submission Form, which further clarifies the supporting material required as part of a submission, and requires confirmation that the game being submitted is content complete. The updated Submission Form will go live on the BBFC website on September 18th, and should be used for all Video Game Submissions from that date forward.
The following explanatory notes explain our definition of cutscenes and clarify our submission requirements for Video Game Submissions. As of September 18th, these notes will replace those currently appearing on the BBFC website in the Video Game Submission section.
Should you have any queries regarding this updated process please email ithelpdesk@bbfc.co.uk
The following is required for each video game submission;-
The Video Recordings Act 1984 makes it clear that a classification certificate only applies to the work examined by the BBFC. While we accept that bug fixing and optimising will continue right up until a game is released, the BBFC requires a content complete version of the work. If changes are made to the content after its classification, the version released would not be the version classified and its sale or hire would be a criminal offence.
Submission of an incomplete version of the game will stop the submission proceeding. By signing the completed submission form, the signatory is confirming that the submission is content complete. Any costs or delays caused by the submission of a non-content complete version are the responsibility of the submitting company, not the BBFC
Video games must be submitted with a completed and signed Video Games Submission Form (two pages). In the case of a new customer, an account number will be created with the first submission. All other customers should ensure that the company name and account number are correctly entered on the submission form. If a company has more than one division the correct division name and account number must be entered on the form.
If the work has been submitted before, it might qualify for processing as a Distributor Change. It is essential that as much information as possible be provided at the submission stage to enable the previous version(s) to be identified
Please use this section of the form to highlight the most contentious issues in the game. It is important to indicate where in the game these occur and how they might be reproduced. If provided, gameplay footage should include examples of issues specifically mentioned here.
The BBFC defines a cutscene as a non interactive, linear cinematic, whether pre-rendered or generated in real time. This is unlikely to include user-generated replays, fly-throughs and in-game hints and cut aways. However, scenes of over 15 seconds in length, or those which contain significant, contentious material are required. Where cutscenes are generated in real-time but vary in detail dependent on player input, only the generic versions of those cutscenes are required. The ability to change camera angle or perspective is unlikely on its own to prevent a sequence from being considered a cutscene.
Cutscenes can be provided either within the game itself (provided they are accessible via a debug menu) or on separate media.
Failure to provide direct access to cutscenes will stop the submission proceeding.
Please ensure that any DVD style extras or unlockable content (i.e. bonus videos, trailers, image galleries etc.) are made available and give details on how these can be accessed. For any video extras, please also give an approximate total running time.
Where relevant, please ensure that any in-game unlockable content (i.e. extra levels, characters, mini games, weapons, power ups etc.) are also accessible.
Examiners are required to sample game play throughout the game, not just at the beginning. A method must be provided to facilitate this whether that is cheat codes, a debug menu, save games etc.
Please provide the following, where relevant, to ensure that all parts of the game are easily accessible.
Failure to provide adequate supporting material will delay the submission.
Gameplay footage can be helpful in reaching a classification decision. If provided, please ensure that it is concise and is limited to the contentious elements of the game. Such footage should not normally exceed 60 mins running time
Copies of footage that may have been submitted to other ratings boards are perfectly acceptable and can be provided on either VHS, DVD or any other digital file format. (If supplied on VHS, please ensure it is of PAL standard)
The BBFC’s IT department carries out a pre-viewing assessment of each game to ensure that the submitted version of the game is functioning as expected, is content complete, has access to the required cutscenes, has all the supporting material required and then determines the examining time which in turn determines the fee. If there are problems at this stage the IT department will contact the submitting company and delays to the processing may result. The nature of the video game submission will determine the length of time required for the examination process. A largely linear work with some degree of interactively will take less time than a highly interactive, complex game, and this will affect the fee charged.