Stores and console companies have shut out games that do not pay to get a rating from the ESRB. Apple doesn't require the ratings on apps and games yet there has been no problem. It is not news to know how this can be a burden on small indie developers.
Marvel's Spider-Man 2 ESRB rating is set to "T for Teen" due to "Blood, Drug Reference, Mild Language, and Violence" present in the title.
The Entertainment Software Ratings Board has published the God of War Ragnarok ESRB rating and rating summary.
The addition of in-game purchases is noteworthy as no other game in the series is listed as having these on the official ESRB website.
click bait
UPDATE: The ESRB introduced the “in-game purchases” label in 2020. It has been pointed out to us that its presence in relation to Nintendo Switch titles has been regarding the ability to purchase a Nintendo Switch Online subscription and not any DLC or other post-release content. We regret the confusion and appreciate those who’ve brought this to our attention.
That's because Apple doesn't see games as "games",they see them as Apps.
ESRB is only need for retail chains like Wal-mart etc....if you don't get rated they won't carry your game, period. If you get an AO rating, they won't carry your game period.
A lot of it is simple store politics (Walmart is a powerhouse, not being sold there is a problem) and the fact that "parents" (Aka Fox) will go nuts to get media attention if a store like Gamestop decides to do otherwise.
Apple makes money off apps, therefore doesn't need ESRB. Its their store, their rules. plus lets face pretty much everything on there will be rated E anyways, kinda stupid to force small developers to pay a fee to get an obvious rating.
I find it ironic that unrated movies are accepted with open arms while unrated games are burned at the stake.