1. Are Board Games Considered Toys?

1.1 General Definition

In most regulatory systems, a toy is defined as a product intended for play by children under the age of 14.
Board games therefore fall into different regulatory categories depending on the age group printed on the packaging.

• Labeled under 14 years (e.g., 6+, 8+, 10+) → Classified as a toy

• Labeled 14+ → Classified as a non-toy general leisure product

This distinction directly impacts safety standards, testing requirements, and certification obligations.

Key keyword: 14+

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2. Toy Classification by Region

2.1 Toy Definition in the United States

In the United States, toys are regulated under consumer product safety laws.

Toy (USA):
Any object designed, manufactured, or marketed as a plaything for children under 14 years of age.

If a board game is labeled for users under 14, it is legally considered a toy and must comply with applicable toy safety regulations such as CPSIA and ASTM standards.

2.2 Toy Definition in Europe

In the European Union, toy classification is governed by the Toy Safety Directive.

Toy (EU):
Any product or material designed or intended, whether or not exclusively, for use in play by children less than 14 years of age.

Board games labeled below 14 years must comply with EN 71 standards and carry the CE mark.

3. How Age Groups Are Determined

3.1 Who Determines the Age Classification?

Age determination is not based solely on manufacturer preference.

• The European Union, United States, and ISO all provide official Product Age Range Guidelines

• Testing laboratories make the final determination during product evaluation

In most cases, laboratories respect the age label provided by the manufacturer — as long as it is reasonable and justified.

3.2 When Age Labeling Is Rejected

If the declared age group does not match the product’s actual risk profile, laboratories may reject it.

Example 1:

Labeling a plush toy as 14+
➡️ Not acceptable, as the product is clearly designed for younger children.

Example 2:

A board game includes a plush or soft component

• Even if the game is labeled 6+,

• The lab may determine that children under 3 could access the plush item

➡️ The 6+ label may be rejected, requiring stricter toy compliance or redesign.

4. Why the “14+” Label Is So Important for Board Games

For many board game publishers and manufacturers, 14+ labeling is a strategic compliance decision.

Benefits of 14+ Classification

• Product is not classified as a toy

• Reduced regulatory testing requirements

• Simplified compliance process

• Faster time to market in many regions

However, the product design must genuinely support a 14+ classification. Artificially assigning a higher age without justification will not pass laboratory review.

5. Best Practices for Board Game Manufacturers

To ensure smooth certification and market entry:

• Clearly define your target age group during game design

• Ensure components match the intended age

• Avoid including child-attractive elements if labeling 14+

• Work with experienced testing labs early

• Align packaging, instructions, and marketing with the same age range

Conclusion

Whether a board game is classified as a toy depends primarily on age labeling, not just gameplay complexity.
In both the US and Europe, products intended for users under 14 are toys, while 14+ board games are treated as non-toy leisure products — provided the classification is reasonable and supported by design.

Understanding these distinctions early helps manufacturers avoid compliance risks and ensures a smoother path to global distribution.