 Games depicting high levels of sex or violence are refused classification in Australia, keeping them off the shelves. But the Rudd Government is examining whether to introduce a new R18+ classification for computer games. The highest level of game classification currently available is M15+. A discussion paper released yesterday looks at whether the R18+ classification, available for films, should be extended to video games. In Manhunt players sneak up on enemy gang members, suffocating them with plastic bags and bashing them with baseball bats and crowbars. BMX XXX features topless female riders and video clips of strippers. Other games censored in Australia, including Left for Dead II and Grand Theft Auto - San Andreas, could have scenes restored.
The discussion paper said: "Permitting R18+ level games would lead to more games at this level being available in Australia and consequently more minors being exposed to them." But it said the current system prevented adults from buying material that would be available to them overseas. "An argument for the introduction of an R18+ category is that adults, who represent the average computer gamer, should be able to access adult-level computer games," the paper said. Home Affairs Minister Brendan O'Connor said the Government was not advocating one position or the other. "We are releasing a discussion paper, rather than proposing a change, so we have an opportunity to gauge all community views on the subject,"' he said. Australian Family Association spokesman John Morrissey said explicit computer games should not be allowed. "How do you enforce it?" he said. "An 18-year-old can buy the game and play it with his younger brother. You never know what happens once it's behind closed doors." Ben Packham |
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R-rated games could get nodposted Jan 3, 2010 6:37 AM by Andrew Hazelton [ updated Jan 3, 2010 6:43 AM ] |
