A survey has found that almost 50 per cent of minors in the US have been able to buy games rated M for Mature from retailers.

The study found that of over 60 stores nationwide, 46 per cent sold M rated games to consumers under the age of 18, reports the San Diego Union-Tribune.

The survey was carried out by the East County Youth Coalition and the National Institute on Media and Family.

The findings back-up a report from the NIMF last year, which also found that half of retailers willingly sold adult games to a young audience.

This week, US senators began to put pressure on ESRB ratings, calling for a review of the system.