Questions
Frequently asked questions
We have collected the questions adult players and parents ask most often: about the magazine, about finding time for games without sacrificing sleep, and about playing together with children. The answers are short and free of lecturing.
The question "how much gaming is OK" is almost always really about something else: whether you have enough time for everything that matters to you.
About the magazine
What does 24Igra do?
We write about video games as part of everyday life: how to choose a game for the time you have, play together with the people close to you, understand age ratings and keep healthy habits.
Why don't you name games?
Titles go out of date quickly, but the principles of choosing stay the same. Besides, we do not want the magazine to turn into advertising. Criteria help you choose for yourself.
Are you connected with the former website on this domain?
No. The domain used to be used for unrelated advertising, while the current magazine was created independently and has no connection with it.
Do you write about gambling?
No. We do not cover or advertise gambling and do not publish material on the subject.
Time and habits
How much time spent gaming is normal?
There is no universal norm. A simpler guide: do you have enough time for sleep, your responsibilities and seeing people? If so, gaming has its place. If not, it is worth rethinking your routine.
How do I end a session on time?
Decide when you will stop before you start playing, and tie the finish to a natural pause: the end of a chapter or round. An alarm set in advance also helps.
Is it OK to play before bed?
Yes, but it is better to choose calm games and finish with time to spare. A fast-paced match right before bed makes it harder for many people to fall asleep quickly.
How do I get back into gaming after a long break?
Start with short formats or a game you remember well. Do not try to catch up on everything at once — let games come back into your life gradually.
Children and family
What do the 0+, 6+, 12+, 16+ and 18+ labels mean?
In Russia, age labelling of information products is set by Federal Law No. 436-FZ "On the Protection of Children from Information Harmful to Their Health and Development", adopted in 2010. The label shows the age from which the content is recommended.
What are PEGI and ESRB?
They are age-rating systems for games. The European PEGI system has operated since 2003, and the North American ESRB since 1994. Next to the label there is usually a note on which content influenced the age rating.
How can I limit my child's playing time and purchases?
Many consoles and services have parental controls that limit time, purchases and chat. Discuss the rules with your child, then set them up following the manufacturer's guide.
Should I play together with my child?
Yes, if you both enjoy it. Playing together helps you understand what your child likes, talk about what you see and agree on rules without conflict.
Read next
- Mechanics
Saves, difficulty, in-game purchases, loot boxes, daily quests and online chat, explained in plain words.
- Guides
Guides for life alongside games: an evening with friends, playing with a child, coming back after a break. Plus our article catalogue.
- Games
A catalogue of formats and genres: half-hour games, episodic stories, co-op, cosy games and games for the whole family.
- Glossary
A player's dictionary: genres and formats, game mechanics, online play and chat.
What we rely on
- Federal Law No. 436-FZ (Russia)
- PEGI — about the system
- ESRB — about the system
- Manufacturers' family-settings guides
We write about general principles and habits. Menus, modes and family settings work differently in each game and service and change with updates, so check the details in the official help pages.