The video game of the year has caused quit a stir because of its violent game play. The game actually had to be reworked in order to alter its original AO (adults only) rating to an M rating (mature) from the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB). Still, it is not out of the woods and has been criticized by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) for what it calls an irresponsible stereotyped depiction of people suffering from mental illness.
The executive director of NAMI had this to say:
“We ask retailers to be responsible in responding to public health concerns. Even though some people may consider Manhunt 2 to be only a game, it unfortunately perpetuates and reinforces cruel, inaccurate perceptions that people who live with mental illnesses are violent. The overall contribution of mental illnesses to violence in society is exceptionally small. In fact, people living with mental illness are far more likely to be victims of violence.”
Truth be told, violence is everywhere, and video games are just the tip of the iceberg when one looks at the most popular television shows and movies. It is also fair to say the gamer demographics have changed and Manhunt 2 is not a game intended for kids. Gamers in fact, run the gamut of the age population ranging from as little as maybe 5 or 6 years of age to people in their 20s and 30s. Considerable disposable income is required to maintain gaming PCs and console systems, and both are out of reach for most first and second graders!
Should we keep the “manhunt” going? The choice can only be yours.
Read [i4u News]
The choice is ultimately ours?
i disagree with that, the irritating thing is that none of us have the choice. I am being prevented from making a decision because of censorship.