Mike Bantick
Friday, 28 March 2008 04:05
Opinion and Analysis
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The day has come for Australian parents and older gamers alike, who might finally see the possibility of the introduction of a clearer easier to understand and broader rating system for video games. Including the long awaited introduction of an R 18+ rating.
Being only one of a couple of countries without an R18+ classification for video games is an uncomfortable and somewhat confusing state to be in.
Finally, the people with the power, the state Attorney-Generals will meet with a discussion point being the possible introduction of the said R18+ classification.
The sticking point could come from South Australian Attorney-General Michael Atkinson, who has maintained he will stick to his opposing stance on the introduction of such a rating.
Many feel that by bringing the video game rating system in line with the well understood film classification system, parents will be clearer about purchases of video games for family members.
As it stands today, many games intended for a more adult orientated audience are either banned (refused classification) or shoe-horned into the next highest rating MA 15+, possibly not the best reflection of the target audience for the product to begin with.
The discussion today coincides with the release of the latest study relating video games to age in the UK.
CONTINUED on page 2
