12.14.07
Posted in Wii, Playstation, Nintendo, Import, PS2, Politics at 4:58 pm by Kuefler
Remember that old Rockstar ban appeal? Well it appears that Rockstar, the Publisher of Manhunt 2, appeal to the Video Appeals Committee to overturn the BBFC’s decision not to rate the controversial game on two separate instances was successful. The Video Appeals Committee voted 4-to-3 in Rockstar’s Favor.
Although Rockstar did win against the BBFC’s in reversing the decision to not rate the game, that doesn’t necessarily mean that the game will ever see the light of day, the BBFC still can still do some things to make the appeal useless, and can still technically ban it. If and when the BBFC reviews the game I can assure you that their biases against Rockstar will come into play.
The BBFC twice rejected Manhunt 2 for its focus on varied and cumulative killings.
We recognise that rejection is a very serious step, in which the desire of publishers to market their games, and that of gamers to buy them, must be balanced against the public interest, including the full range of possible harm risks to vulnerable individuals and to any children who may be wrongly exposed to such games.
Such balancing judgements are inevitably complex and multi-faceted, and are made only after very careful consideration of the contents of a work. We played Manhunt 2 for well over 30 hours prior to our decision.
The Board recognizes that the available research findings on the effects of video games (including positive as well as harmful effects) are varied and contested. But we continue to believe that a broad approach to the possible risks is needed, which goes beyond purely behavioral harm, and which also takes account of other possible effects on the sensibilities and attitudes of individuals.
Personal I believe that the BBFC is grossly overstepped there area of power, the whole system is flawed. It’s illegal to supply any recording(Game) that has not been specifically certified BBFC, the BBFC has the responsibility to review all games. If the BBFC refuses to review a video game, it should be considered to not be a video game, because the BBFC has the responsibility to review video game. Simply but if the BBFC doesn’t rate a game, It shouldn’t be considered a video game, than therefor doesn’t need a rating, and should be considered to be like a computer software title or operating system, which do not have such ratings. I challenge you to fight that logic.
MCV UK
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12.07.07
Posted in Influence, Politics at 2:59 pm by Kuefler
Democratic State Representative Helene Keeley has worked with Jack Thompson to bring video game legislation to Delaware, but it now appears that she is backing, along with Lt. Governor John Carney, the Entertainment Software Rating Board(ESRB). She has said the following:
The ESRB ratings are an effective and informative resource that allows parents to decide if the video game their child wants is appropriate, and parents should be sure to check the rating each time they consider a game for their child so they know they’re choosing one that’s right for their age,” added Rep. Keeley. “I’m proud to be participating in the effort to educate parents in our state about the tools at their disposal so they can make informed decisions.
That would be the second second elected official this week to leave the “Dark Force” and join the Pro-ESRB bandwagon. The first was Republican Oklahoma State Senator Glenn Coffee. Glenn Coffee was known for his support of the Oklahoma’s 2006 video game law, a piece of legislation attacking the Video Game Industry and the ESRB. He is now working with the ESRB on a parental awareness program.
As a father, I know about the tough decisions parents face today about the media they allow into their homes, The simple fact is that there’s no substitute for parental involvement and responsibility. It’s important that parents play an active role in choosing games for their children, just as it’s important for Oklahoma retailers to comply with their store policies that restrict the sale or rental of M-rated games to those under 17. ESRB ratings are an effective and informative resource that allows parents to decide if the video game their child wants is appropriate. I’m proud to be educating parents in our state about the tools at their disposal.
I’m glad to see these two anti-gaming legislators see the light, let’s hope more follow in their steps.
Press Release
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