While violent videogames are "desensitising" kids, it's the parents who should study "what games are all about," and do some real parenting.
A debate took place on BBC Radio Leeds involving Mothers Against Violence, presenters and videogame journalists. A rep for the MAV said they want to "promote the eradication of violence and to relieve the victims of the effects of violence within the community".
Now here comes the game bashing... hold on - what?! "I'm not directly blaming games, I'm blaming parents," they said. "If someone doesn't do something where does it stop?" Rockstar Games' Grand Theft Auto became the inevitable point of virtual violence.
Local boys and girls Rockstar Leeds produced the handheld releases of GTA. "Why is it okay to beat up a prostitute, but not okay to pick up a normal civilian?" said one mother. Actually GTA does allow you to pick up normal people, for cab fare, or by accident.
Common sense and radio? Hmm. A consensus was generally reached that parents just don't pay attention to the age ratings on these games, ignoring potential harm to the wee ones. "It just takes one of us to spread the word, to plant the seed," she added.
Parents should be "taking the time to study what games are all about," expressing her fear that violent titles are "desensitising" children who are "becoming complacent and think they're invincible". Not without plenty of ammo packs and medkits they won't be.
Rockstar were distracted enough to send an official statement to BBC Radio Leeds, saying it "submits every game to the appropriate ratings body" and how the Grand Theft Auto series is "18-rated and is entertainment clearly aimed at an adult audience".
PEGI is soon to become the legal standard ratings body for videogames in the UK, with the BBFC relinquishing the role. The British videogames industry will be funding a parental awareness campaign for the ignorant masses. Is it really that hard people?
It's great that parent groups are realising that, as parents, they can moderate what their young can play and watch in their own home. It's like their guardians or something...
Source: Eurogamer
