Game Ratings Under Scrutiny Again
Patricia Hewitt in talks with industry.
Videogames and the ratings they carry are in the news again this week. Trade Secretary Patricia Hewitt will be meeting retailers, manufacturers and various experts to look at the issue of adult-rated games falling into the hands of children.
While only 10 per cent of games are classified for adults only, many of these games are being bought by children themselves or by parents who are oblivious to the rating systems already in place.
Part of the issue is the actual labelling of games, which the Government would like to be made clearer so that parents can make more informed decisions when picking out games for their children.
Retailers are also being told by the Government that they must enforce the rating system already in place or suffer the penalties, which can include prison sentences or fines of up to £5,000.
The videogame industry was put on the defensive again earlier this year when a Leicester boy was murdered by a friend who had been playing Manhunt, Rockstar's violent action game, at the time.
But the Government has been clear that it is not looking to ban violent games, but merely to enforce rules that are already in place.
Alex Wollenschlaeger
Editor, Kikizo Games
Satoru Iwata Video Interview - the late Nintendo president spoke with Kikizo in 2004 as 'Nintendo Revolution' loomed.
Kaz Hirai Video Interview - the first of Kikizo's interviews with the man who went on to become global head of Sony.
Ed Fries Video Interview - one of Xbox's founders discusses an epic journey from Excel to Xbox.
Yu Suzuki, the Kikizo Interview - we spend time with one of gaming's most revered creators.
Tetris - The Making of an Icon: Alexey Pajitnov and Henk Rogers reveal the fascinating story behind Tetris
Rare founders, Chris and Tim Stamper - their only interview? Genuinely 'rare' sit down with founders of the legendary studio.
The History of First-Person Shooters - a retrospective, from Maze War to Modern Warfare