Recently, GamePolitics reported on a blunt editorial by gamesindustry.biz’s Rob Fahey regarding Manhunt’s ban in the U.K., which Fahey supported (see: gamesindustry.biz Editor on Rockstar: Juvenile, Shameful, Irresponsible).
Rockstar has responded with its own letter to GI.biz which reads in part:
We are still exploring our options for Manhunt 2, but how does banning our game support the industry or further the development of the medium? …
a ban is a triumph for the industry’s harshest critics, not an act of diplomacy. A ban is only likely to encourage those who believe video games, already the most regulated medium in entertainment history, should be further restricted.
What about games make them deserve special treatment from the authorities? …Yes, we have responsibilities as an industry… Creative industries have always faced harsh political and legal criticism…
We believe in a well-run ratings system. With the best rating system in history and the future of the industry and medium at stake, we don’t understand why it is necessary to effectively ban all games intended for players 18 and older.
