Violent video games !

There are moves to introduce a R I8+ plus category for violent video games. At present our highest classification is MA I5 +.

It is doubtful if any classification change will prevent unsuitable games from reaching the hands of young people. We have restrictions on alcohol, tobacco and drugs that do little to restrict supply. While ever there is market demand - supply will follow.

It seems possible that violent video games are fuelling many growing social evils. Some games are a training ground for those disposed to avoiding the police in stolen cars. Young kids actually learn the mechanics of driving a car using game controls. Is it any wonder that when the situation becomes real and they are behind the wheel of a stolen car with the police in hot pursuit - they think nothing of driving up a one way street against oncoming traffic. On the console - it is only a game. In the real world - it brings death to somebody !

Then there is the use of firearms. Many violent video games are little more than a training manual for civil war. The aim is to kill as many of the enemy as possible. Is it any wonder that regular users lose any sense of responsibility ?

Introducing a R I8 + category may help, but regulations to tone down the material in those extra violent games would help more - if it could be achieved !

That would be an unlikely dream. Once again the law of supply and demand applies. If games are not violent enough to satisfy today's game users - then you can expect an underground industry to fill that gap - just as XXX rated porn is circulated against the present laws.

What the politicians have to realise is that applying a ban on anything simply does not work ! All it does - is to create a new illicit industry !