Why Is Block Blast Rated 17+?

Key Points

Block Blast is a puzzle game developed by Hungry Studio, rated 17+ on the App Store due to its advertising content.
The game itself contains no inappropriate content, but ads include mature/suggestive themes, mild sexual content, and simulated gambling.
Players express dissatisfaction with the inappropriateness and high frequency of ads, which they feel disrupts the gaming experience.
The 17+ rating may limit access for younger players, with developers likely prioritizing ad revenue through this strategy.
Controversy exists: some players find the rating unreasonable and suggest seeking ad-free alternative games or using ad-blocking tools.

Game Overview

Block Blast is a popular puzzle game released in 2023, available on iOS and Android devices. Players drag and drop variously shaped blocks onto an 8x8 grid to form complete rows or columns, clearing them to score points. Combining classic Tetris elements with relaxed strategic gameplay, the game’s simple yet engaging mechanics have made it a favorite among casual players. However, despite appearing suitable for all ages, the App Store has assigned it a 17+ age rating, leaving many players puzzled.

Why 17+?

The 17+ rating for Block Blast stems not from the game’s content but from the advertisements it displays. According to the App Store listing, the game includes the following:

Frequent/intense mature or suggestive themes: Ads may feature adult themes, such as dating apps.
Infrequent/mild sexual content and nudity: Some ads may contain mild sexual innuendos or imagery.
Infrequent/mild simulated gambling: Ads may promote gambling-related content.

These ad contents result in the 17+ classification, even though the gameplay itself is free of any inappropriate elements. Players have reported ads involving dating, gambling, and even sensitive topics like suicide, which are particularly unsuitable for a game that children or teens might play.

Player Reactions

Many players have voiced strong dissatisfaction with these ads, feeling they ruin the game’s relaxing experience. For instance, on the Roku Community Forum, users complained about excessively loud ad volumes, prompting them to switch to other apps. In Reddit discussions, players have sought ad-free alternative games, reflecting widespread frustration with both the frequency and content of the ads.

Alternatives

For players who want to enjoy Block Blast without encountering inappropriate ads, here are some options:

Ad-blocking tools: Tools like AdLock can block in-game ads, though effectiveness varies by device.
Alternative games: Games like Block Blast Free may offer fewer or more appropriate ads, playable online without downloads.
Contacting the developer: Players can provide feedback on ad issues via the App Store’s developer link, urging Hungry Studio to improve its ad strategy.

Conclusion

Block Blast is rated 17+ due to mature content in its advertisements, not the game itself. This rating serves as a warning about potentially inappropriate ads, particularly for younger players or those sensitive to certain content. Players seeking an ad-free experience may consider alternative games or ad-blocking tools.