Another week, another video game banned in Australia…. Yes, the good old classification board of Australia has officially banned “Aliens Vs Predator” from being released in Australia, citing “high impact violence” as the reason.
With Australian gamers becoming ever more frustrated at the country’s refusal to implement an “R” rating for computer games – apparently all down to the refusal of one man, South Australian Attorney General Michael Atkinson, to leave behind the comfort of the 1950s and enter the 21st century – “AVP” is the latest victim of the increasingly absurd policy. Unlike on previous occasions, among which saw a censored version of “Left 4 Dead 2” released in the country instead of the original – Aussies needn’t expect to see an altered version of “AVP” any time soon, according to Rebellion CEO Jason Kingsley. In a strongly worded statement, Kingsley expressed disappointment over the banning and barely concealed his contempt for the country’s refusal to treat adults like adults. “Rebellion is disappointed that its upcoming title “Aliens Vs Predator” has been banned in Australia,” Kingsley wrote. “However, as we understand the law in that country the authorities had no choice as we agree strongly that our game is not suitable for game players who are not adults… The content of “AVP” is based on some of the most innovative and iconic horror movies, and as such we wanted to create a title that was true to the source material. It is for adults, and it is bloody and frightening, that was our intent. We will not be releasing a sanitized or cut down version for territories where adults are not considered by their governments to be able to make their own entertainment choices.” Ouch!
