I have no problem with playing games with sex or violence in them, if they're fun games. I consider myself mature enough to handle that sort of content. Nevertheless, I wouldn't buy a game like that for my twelve-year-old son (hypothetically; I don't actually have a son). So I like the ESRB rating system. I don't know why polticians always criticize the ESRB. I think their ratings are fair and far more detailed that the movie ratings system (I remember seeing specific content warnings on video games before seeing them on movies).
I find it strange that there is such a controversy over game ratings when there is almost no controversy over movie ratings. It is my understanding that in most states, there are no actual laws against letting minors into R-rated movies. Most theaters voluntarily refuse to sell tickets for R-rated movies to minors, because of public relations. It is also my understanding that game retailers are not so consistent in refusing to sell M-rated games to minors; this is why so many states are trying to pass laws restricting the sale of video games with mature content to minors. My question is, why the discrepancy? Why do movie theaters voluntarily try to protect minors, when video game retailers do not? I don't have an answer, but I think any discussion of game ratings should consider the issue.