Microsoft begins age verification checks for R-rated games in Australia

Microsoft will soon require Australian users to pass age verification checks to access R18+ games across PC and Xbox.

The move is one of the first instances of Australia’s Age-Restricted Material Codes being applied to video games. Originally implemented on 9 March, following December’s underage social media ban, the new codes aim to prevent children from accessing age-inappropriate content.

Pornography sites were among the first to comply, preventing access unless users verified they were 18 or older. It prompted a sharp increase in VPN usage, as Australians attempted to sidestep the age verification requirements.

Microsoft began contacting Australian users over the weekend, including via Xbox accounts and email. As confirmed in an email seen by GadgetGuy, Microsoft’s age verification requirements start this month.

“Starting August 2026, to comply with Australia regulations, you may need to verify your age before purchasing or accessing apps and games rated 18+ on Microsoft Store and Xbox Store,” Microsoft’s email stated.

While access to games already owned by Australian users isn’t subject to age verification, Microsoft’s email says that without verification, “you may not be able to purchase or access content rated 18+” through either the Microsoft Store or Xbox Store.

Xbox age verification goes international

According to Microsoft’s frequently asked questions page, the verification requirements also apply to other countries, including Brazil, Singapore, and the UK. Users who wish to verify their age can use one of various methods, ranging from email-based verification, providing a government ID or credit card, to taking a selfie.

Microsoft lists Yoti and Verifymy as its “age assurance partners”. According to Microsoft, any data uploaded as part of the verification process is encrypted, not shared with the company, and deleted after verification.

Some local gamers have criticised the requirement online, labelling it as “extreme overreach”. Others mentioned that they were able to use their email addresses to quickly verify, without needing to supply any additional information.

However, Australians who verify their age aren’t guaranteed to have full access to all content within each game. Aussie gamers recently discovered that gambling in GTA Online‘s in-game casino is no longer available.

Following Microsoft’s move, It’s highly likely that the upcoming GTA 6 will require age verification when it launches in November. Australians who want to download existing R18+ Xbox games, like GTA 5, Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, and Cyberpunk 2077, will now need to confirm they’re an adult first.

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