Game Execs: California Game Law Could Mess Things Up
See Full ImageThat California game law that goes before the Supreme Court soon is certainly getting a lot of attention, and not just from annoyed gamers.
Game insiders, journalists, and executives are all banding together to fight what many are calling a ridiculously restrictive would-be law. The law would revisit a current California state mandate that would, if passed, restrict the sale of mature-themed games to minors but that's not really the problem. The problem is that, according to what EA CEO John Riccitiello told CNBC, certain retailers might stop carrying "M"-rated games (like how Wal-Mart censors music albums with the Parental Advisory label), thereby impacting sales. Furthermore, what if we had 50 different jurisdictions...? Said Riccitiello:
"...We could end up with state level bureaucracies that define what’s marketable in 50 different jurisdictions across the U.S. I can imagine [the government] trying to tell Steven Spielberg 'We need 50 different cuts of your movie for each state.' It will screw us up in a real way."
The law was originally written back in 2005 by California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and state senator Leland Yee, but in 2007, the California Ninth Circuit Court found the law unconstitutional, ruling that video games are a form of free speech, which means they must be treated as all other forms of entertainment (movies, music, books, etc.). However, with the Supreme Court agreeing to review the law again this year, we could end up with government-mandated labeling guidelines rather than our standard self-regulated labels applied by the ESRB. The ESA (Entertainment Software Association) has already said they plan to fight the new attempt to pass the law. SCEA CEO Jack Tretton summed it up:
"I think the Supreme Court is looking at it to potentially see if there’s something to it or to put an end to it once and for all."
Everything should go before the court this summer so cross your fingers.
Tags: esa, california game law, supreme court
7/7/2010 10:52:46 AM Ben Dutka
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Comments (115 posts)
kraygen
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 1:53:18 PM
I don't think it's the governments job to tell parents what their kids can play either, that's what parents are for, not governments.
8 up, 1 down
Jawknee
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 2:11:41 PM
You can have my games when your pry them from my cold dead hands!!!
6 up, 1 down
johnld
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 2:20:31 PM
0 up, 0 down
WorldEndsWithMe
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 4:08:07 PM
1 up, 3 down
Highlander
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 6:56:04 PM
3 up, 1 down
Jawknee
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 9:32:28 PM
Like in this recent gun decision, the Supreme Court struck down the gun ban in Chicago, those restrictions can now be challenged based on that ruling.
Your right, they wouldn't be adding a freedom rather, reinforcing free speech.
Last edited by Jawknee on 7/7/2010 9:33:51 PM
3 up, 2 down
manofchao5
Saturday, July 10, 2010 @ 2:17:16 PM
1 up, 0 down
Luiscosmo2
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 11:14:24 AM
Reply
But droppin the M+ Rating completely? Are you people too lazy to check if the game would be selling to minors...Then the goverment could make it pass troguh the whole country? I think Ima cry...
2 up, 1 down
Jawknee
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 11:16:04 AM
Reply
I have faith the courts will come down on the side of freedom in this matter. They have been consistent for the most part. If we don't have these kinds of limits and restrictions on movies, i can't see them doing it for games. The First Amendment usually prevails in these matters.
Amazes me that these elites so arrogantly proclaim to know whats best for all of us.
11 up, 2 down
shadowscorpio
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 2:05:10 PM
It truly infuriates me. When was the last time the government asked the private sector ( the people whom they are to be governing and representing) how we felt and if we think this is right?
I normally don't like to go into politics on gamers blogs but this particular thread warrants both.
Last edited by shadowscorpio on 7/7/2010 2:05:48 PM
0 up, 0 down
Jawknee
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 2:20:24 PM
Apparently its okay to ban books because the government won't enforce it anyway. Could this same logic be used for games and movies?
::facepalm::
Hard to believe i know, just google it. "Kagen, it's okay to ban books"
Last edited by Jawknee on 7/7/2010 2:23:34 PM
1 up, 2 down
MyWorstNightmar
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 9:21:55 PM
0 up, 0 down
Jawknee
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 9:37:33 PM
The ESRB is a private rating system i thought, this job would effectually be taken over by the state government. Bureaucrats will decide whats inappropriate, not consumers. Different standards could be set all over the country causing havoc.
Thats why the 50 different cuts of a movie example was brought up.
0 up, 2 down
MyWorstNightmar
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 10:02:35 PM
I have mixed emotions about this. I think mature video games should be kept out of the hands of minors UNLESS purchased by a parent, and given to the child. If there is no governing body to enforce that, I think there should be. This is a democracy, and we all have freedoms, but I don't think someone under the age of 18 gets to enjoy anything they want carte blanche.
I realize people are afraid of the "slippery slope" point of view to this, but I am surprised there is no enforcement to protect children from adult aimed video games.
0 up, 0 down
Jawknee
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 10:31:14 PM
Come to think about it, the MPAA functions much like the ESRB. I'm not sure whats wrong with the current standard other then its largely not enforced at certain stores. My local Target and Walmart card me when i buy a R movie or a M rated game so i guess some are making an effort on their own to keep M games out of kids hands.
How are movie ratings enforced? Say they let a kid into an R rated movie and the authorities find out. What happens at that point?
Last edited by Jawknee on 7/7/2010 10:33:06 PM
0 up, 2 down
MyWorstNightmar
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 10:42:09 PM
Here is the rub. If the movies were gov regulated, then there would be a fine to theaters who let kids in. If the theater faces a fine because of a minimum wage employee who doesn't give a darn, then the theater would have to make the decision "do we even want to show rated R movies if we keep getting fined for letting in kids?"
I think that is the thinking here for not wanting to regulate the ratings, because with government regulation comes the potential for fines, and businesses won't want to take the chance of getting constantly fined for selling rated M style games to minors, thus they will say heck with it, we won't sell them.
I think there are ways around that. As an adult, you are required to have identification. Put a case with a lock on a rated M game. That will be a reminder to the clerk that they have to check ID for the game. They then unlock the case, and give you the game. This is doable in my oppinion.
Jawk, in terms of your concern about the state being able to pass a law regarding this, they should have the right. States can pass any law they choose. Citizens have the right to challenge those laws in court. And at this point, the nations only standard is to not have a standard since the ESRB is privately run. We could have 50 different laws on the matter, since the Federal government doesn't have a law on the books for the States to follow.
I don't want Target or Walmart deciding what is ok for my child to play, I want to be the one to decide. The only way to make Target or Walmart obide by my parental authority is to have the government establish a law regarding it.
Last edited by MyWorstNightmar on 7/7/2010 10:46:15 PM
0 up, 0 down
Jawknee
Thursday, July 08, 2010 @ 12:15:45 AM
Maybe the solution is to allow the ratings to be done by the ESRB but leave it to the state to oversee enforcement? Not sure. I don't think there is any easy solution to the problem at hand.
I don't want kids playing games that are too mature for them but i don't want the state telling me what they think is appropriate entertainment and whats not.
hmmmmm...tough one.
0 up, 2 down
MyWorstNightmar
Thursday, July 08, 2010 @ 1:14:40 AM
But on the other hand, there needs to be limits to what minors can freely get their hands on. And right now, stores are on the "honor system" to adhere to not selling "M" games to minors. The only time I ever got carded for a game was when I bought Heavy Rain. Course I am 35, so I am sure I look over 18. HA!
I know it sounds like I am talking out of both sides of my mouth, but I do think the law has good motives. It is just such a tough thing to implement properly.
0 up, 0 down
Underdog15
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 11:16:41 AM
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The only good thing that could come of this is MS's failure, and the west having no choice but to play Japanese made games! XD
I kid! I kid!
My friends! You have this Canadian's support!
Last edited by Underdog15 on 7/7/2010 11:19:09 AM
4 up, 1 down
rogers71
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 11:31:18 AM
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Yeah, the government needs to stay on top of this issue. I mean, everything else going on right now can take a back seat to this really pressing matter. Priorities have now been set in order.
"Sarcasm finished"
GOOD GRIEF, that is all I can say.
4 up, 0 down
Jawknee
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 11:38:14 AM
These state legislator and Arnold's stupidity never ceases to amaze me. I really hope Californian's wake up and vote these bums out. How does the saying go?
As California goes, so goes the rest of the nation?
Last edited by Jawknee on 7/7/2010 11:41:01 AM
4 up, 3 down
coverton341
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 12:03:22 PM
At this moment he is motioning to lower the wages of every last state employee to Federal minimum wage. That is lower than the state standard of living wage. Now, I know a lot of people will say "Good state employees get paid too much." and while I agree that some do people like my g/f work for the state but not in the "government" sector and she makes a decent living, not over the top buying yachts kind of cash.
Anyway, I am way off topic. He's being a jackass all the way around, and while most of us here seem to be content with getting screwed some of us have our eyes open.
I'd move if it wasn't for school and my new lady friend.
3 up, 0 down
Jawknee
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 1:02:22 PM
;)
2 up, 1 down
Natalisrubbish
Thursday, July 08, 2010 @ 1:14:41 PM
not even touching this one. (-:
0 up, 0 down
Nickjcal
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 11:35:22 AM
Reply
1 up, 0 down
Phoelix
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 1:43:54 PM
0 up, 0 down
maxpontiac
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 11:36:46 AM
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It's going to get worse people.
8 up, 0 down
sawao_yamanaka
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 11:45:33 AM
2 up, 0 down
Luiscosmo2
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 12:46:42 PM
5 up, 0 down
maxpontiac
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 5:45:11 PM
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SolidFantasy
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 8:45:06 PM
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Hezzron
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 11:43:30 AM
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This guy sleeps on a pile of cash thanks to having starred in some of the most violent movies made in the 80's and 90's.
Politics can do funny things to a man....like give him real short term memory.
Last edited by Hezzron on 7/7/2010 11:44:27 AM
11 up, 0 down
sawao_yamanaka
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 11:46:19 AM
0 up, 0 down
NiteKrawler
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 11:51:29 AM
0 up, 0 down
coverton341
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 12:05:16 PM
</sarcasm>
0 up, 0 down
Jawknee
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 1:01:47 PM
0 up, 0 down
frostface
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 11:49:38 AM
Reply
4 up, 0 down
mike rlz
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 12:02:20 PM
0 up, 0 down
Ultimate_Balla
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 11:52:14 AM
Reply
3 up, 1 down
PANICinc
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 12:12:24 PM
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http://www.theeca.com/member_home
This is a social injustice targeting gamers. We must not allow this to go through. Join the ECA, contact your local government official and urge them to protest this ridiculous notion. Only then will we be free to play the games we want to play!!
*End Rant*
3 up, 0 down
FM23
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 12:24:32 PM
Reply
0 up, 6 down
Jawknee
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 2:20:41 PM
When he ran for his first term he made a lot of promises to clean up the fiscal mess California was in. People wanted to believe him. Also the fact his only competition was Gary Coleman and some airhead porn star probably helped him win.
Last edited by Jawknee on 7/7/2010 2:22:22 PM
1 up, 1 down
FlyingKickPunch
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 12:26:02 PM
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...I couldn't think of one for Terminator.
But remember when he said he'd kill videogames last? He lied. (He never said that, just needed a Commando reference.) BOOYAH! :P
7 up, 0 down
frostface
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 1:32:12 PM
(ok thats all I got, but dude, still laughin at the commando reference...best line in the movie)
6 up, 0 down
FlyingKickPunch
Thursday, July 08, 2010 @ 7:53:27 PM
But I guess if he stays in California, and doesn't come try to be a Hercules in New York (where I live), it won't be so bad. :)
0 up, 0 down
ro kurorai
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 12:26:19 PM
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Otherwise America may face similar problems as Germany:
Wheres here I have to import my games from UK or the States as German versions are always butchered, the States (or Cal.) will make no money on mature games which ultimately leads to devs stopping to produce mature games at all -_-
Welcome to the impending games-are-only-for-kids reality x)
Last edited by ro kurorai on 7/7/2010 12:29:25 PM
2 up, 1 down
Qwarktast1c
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 1:12:07 PM
Reply
they want to legalize pot, do absolutely nothing about illegals, boycott a neighboring state because of a law they don't like, spend like freakin crazy when they don't even have the $$........ and yet they do want to make it so that M-rated games are government regulated and therefore harder to sell?
COME ON!!!
that is what the ESRB is for you dolts!! and parents should know what their kids are buying too. RESPONSIBILITY. does that word even mean anything to people anymore??
if minors getting a hold of M-rated games is such an issue, then why don't they do what they are supposed to and card the people?!
obey the laws that are already in place!
of course there are ways to get around that, like having a person who is of age to purchase the game for the minor, but that still brings me to the my point.
quit complaining about your kids playing these games. they are your responsibility. you should know what they are playing.
stop ruining everybody else's fun
8 up, 0 down
Jawknee
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 1:15:38 PM
1 up, 0 down
MyWorstNightmar
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 10:54:39 PM
There is no law in place to make stores obey the rating system. That is what Cali was/is trying to establish.
It is rather hypocritical that Cali wants to establish their own laws (which they DO have the right to do), but then Arizona uses their same right, and Cali calls foul.
0 up, 0 down
Phoelix
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 1:20:17 PM
Reply
Fingers crossed.
0 up, 0 down
dlte
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 1:24:24 PM
Reply
2 up, 0 down
JackC8
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 1:36:59 PM
Reply
3 up, 1 down
kraygen
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 2:01:13 PM
1 up, 0 down
Lawless SXE
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 1:41:06 PM
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In all seriousness though, were it to come to a developer having to modify their game for each and every state, I think that they would choose to not publish it in America. Sure, doing so may slash their sales dramatically, but is it really any worse than having costs blown out by having to change a bunch of tiny things to appease a bunch of hypocrites?
The way I see it though is this: America is the world leader in gaming consumption. This law seeks to destroy that. It may not be blatant, but to take out so much would do it anyway. If the gaming sales drain out of America, there will simply not be enough revenue in the rest of the world for companies to continue developing, and so they will dwindle until nothing is left. It's an assassination, and if there is any right in the world, the Supreme Court will throw it out.
@TaoMeowMeow,
You forgot about Predator :P
Peace.
0 up, 0 down
Jawknee
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 1:46:29 PM
Where's Wooka with his seemingly Patriotic fist and his conspiracy theories when you need him?!
Last edited by Jawknee on 7/7/2010 1:50:37 PM
0 up, 1 down
JMO_INDY
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 1:45:32 PM
Reply
Last edited by JMO_INDY on 7/7/2010 1:46:31 PM
1 up, 3 down
CharlesD
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 1:49:35 PM
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BikerSaint
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 1:52:15 PM
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And then hopefully, the citizens of Cali can get your term as Governor, Totally Recall(ed) too.
Arny,
Instead of trying to stifle America's freedom of choice, try putting the blame squarely where it should lie....
with bad parents,(and your own self, by being the proven hypocrite you are.
Last edited by BikerSaint on 7/7/2010 1:53:34 PM
5 up, 0 down
kraygen
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 2:07:48 PM
3 up, 0 down
RadioHeader
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 4:18:20 PM
3 up, 0 down
tlpn99
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 2:14:26 PM
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How many times have you seen an older brother/sister/relative buying GTA or any 18 rated game for the younger siblings/relatives etc ?
I was in Game the other day in the UK and this man said his 8 year old son loved the GTA games as he was asking about Liberty City Stories for his son.
Last edited by tlpn99 on 7/7/2010 2:16:12 PM
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Milonakis
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 2:54:33 PM
Reply
0 up, 0 down
fluffer nutter
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 3:02:22 PM
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Zorigo
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 3:53:37 PM
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So far the UK government hasn't been to bad about games. But i don't exactly know where the con-dems stand on this.
I say con-dems but its actually just the conservatives in power. lib dems are just the coat hangers. But even so, i don't think anything bad is going to happen for games here, but if this does pass in the US, then perhaps, as Cameron is a complete douche, it might affect things over here.
crap.
1 up, 0 down
WorldEndsWithMe
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 4:15:55 PM
Reply
3 up, 0 down
Jawknee
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 5:06:31 PM
Besides, your mistating their position, they don't want "tons" of deregulation, just a little less. ;)
Last edited by Jawknee on 7/7/2010 5:30:49 PM
3 up, 2 down
WorldEndsWithMe
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 5:19:44 PM
4 up, 0 down
Jawknee
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 6:08:16 PM
Common sense regulations are needed, I think we can all agree on that. The problem is common sense seems to be seriously lacking.
4 up, 3 down
Highlander
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 6:58:08 PM
After a major air accident the FAA and TSA do in fact routinely ground all aircraft of the same type until safety inspections can be carried out.
1 up, 0 down
Jawknee
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 8:56:24 PM
0 up, 1 down
Jawknee
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 9:10:43 PM
0 up, 1 down
Natalisrubbish
Thursday, July 08, 2010 @ 1:18:04 PM
I don't get it, I make political comments and all hell breaks loose and you go around gaming news articles spewing right wing support and leftist discontent and never so much as get a slap on the wrist. You are some character.
Sincerely,
Your old friend, Natal.
2 up, 5 down
Underdog15
Thursday, July 08, 2010 @ 3:19:52 PM
2) Jawk gets slapped on the wrist for political stuff all the time! lol
2 up, 0 down
Jawknee
Thursday, July 08, 2010 @ 3:24:58 PM
0 up, 0 down
Natalisrubbish
Thursday, July 08, 2010 @ 10:00:27 PM
0 up, 2 down
Snaaaake
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 5:52:42 PM
Reply
0 up, 0 down
THEVERDIN
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 5:56:59 PM
Reply
2 up, 2 down
Highlander
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 6:56:37 PM
5 up, 0 down
Naga
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 7:05:47 PM
Reply
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ExhumeART
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 8:20:25 PM
Reply
1 up, 0 down
Jed
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 8:20:51 PM
Reply
4 up, 0 down
Ben Dutka PSXE [Administrator]
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 8:44:21 PM
4 up, 0 down
bigrailer19
Thursday, July 08, 2010 @ 12:23:12 AM
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Most retailers I know of wont sell an M rated game to someone under 17. Here in Oregon you get carded for it. Which is what retailers should do, because then it stops this nonsense from happening. So if this is the case, I think the supreme court will just put an end to this and shoot it down.
I don't see a real problem here. They want to make it so kids 17 and under cant buy the M rated game, when if the retailer is doing there job they can't anyways... Again its all on the parent!
It just seems like its just a big circle to me.
1 up, 0 down
___________
Thursday, July 08, 2010 @ 3:23:30 AM
Reply
that should be a given, i mean thats what rating systems are for no?
though, stores refusing to stock M rated games now thats just stupid!
kinda like the BS i have to put up with here, i really can not understand the inconsistency of the OFLC.
L4D2 is no where near as graphic as some other games that got passed, dead rising 2 is 10 times worse than L4D2.
so guess which one got banned?
thats right, the less graphic one.
GO FIGURE!
thats it ive cracked it, its simple!
its all about how much sugar you offer them, if you know what i mean ;)
obviously valve are not as good at the under the table game as capcom are...................
1 up, 0 down
MyWorstNightmar
Thursday, July 08, 2010 @ 11:11:34 AM
In terms of stores not stocking the game, such as Walmart, it would be just in Cali that they don't, not necessarily do to a moral stance, but because they wouldn't want to risk getting fines for an employee not paying attention and selling to a minor.
Not sure how they would handle the labeling of the games "just" in Cali. They want something like a Parental warning label on them, and if that is just in California, then that causes a manufacturing issue. Perhaps the stores could be responsible for putting the sticker on the package. However, the law makers might require them to hard print it on there, just like the "M" is currently hard printed on it.
There are a lot of questions and complications that are raised. I do support the thought behind the law, but I wonder if there is a better way to implement it. I don't have the answers.
1 up, 1 down
Highlander
Thursday, July 08, 2010 @ 8:10:37 PM
2 up, 0 down
Jawknee
Friday, July 09, 2010 @ 1:05:08 AM
They should be consistent at the very least.
1 up, 0 down
MyWorstNightmar
Friday, July 09, 2010 @ 10:21:02 AM
The focus is on video games, because kids are not clammering to get their hands on the new Saw moving coming out on DVD for 90 minutes of hack n slash fun. They want the 20 hour, 40 hour, 60 hour, 100 hour immersive M rated experience video games.
If kids are buying R movies over the counter with little resistance, well that is a problem, but I view the video game issue more pressing.
I don't think the law or passing it is politically driven. There is a culteral purpose behind it. The attempt to squash it by political leaders IS political. They are trying to score political points with certain constituents. That is the way the game is played.
As far as some in this thread saying that they thought Repubs are for LESS regulation? For the most part that is true. But when it comes to "protecting youth", you can always count on Repubs to show their face. Alternatively, you can count on Dems to push the opposite view, such as paid abortions for girls under 18 without parental consent or even knowledge of the abortion happening.
Last edited by MyWorstNightmar on 7/9/2010 10:24:06 AM
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BikerSaint
Thursday, July 08, 2010 @ 10:57:09 PM
Reply
http://www.bitmob.com/articles/monster-of-the-week-video-games-and-the-cycle-of-censorship
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MyWorstNightmar
Friday, July 09, 2010 @ 10:50:25 AM
The writer at the beginning of the peice says the "United States Supreme Court is about to rule on whether or not video games are protected by free speech. Specifically, the court will rule on the constitutionality of California's AB 1792, which gives violent video games a legal designation as "harmful matter," and therefore makes their sale to minors punishable by law."
And then at the end, he says: "This is where we are now: The Supreme Court is going to rule on whether games can be selectively banned"
How and why does he take the leap to call making it illegal to sell video games that are deemed to have mature materials to minors akin to "banning" them?
So, I got carded at Kmart when I bought Heavy Rain. Are we to say that Kmart is "banning" Heavy Rain? No, they just want to make sure it doesn't get purchased by a minor. Well, California says we agree with that philosophy, and we want to go ahead and make it law, so that Kmart is required to check id.
I have a feeling you have read more on this?
The government doesn't allow nudity or swearing during prime time on T.V. to "protect minors", so why doesn't the Supreme Court throw that out as unconstitutional?
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Jawknee
Friday, July 09, 2010 @ 12:20:26 PM
Remember those Faces of Death movies? Well those are completely inappropriate but i don't need a government mandate reminding me of this. Seems to me, if parents don't want their kids playing M rated games then the parents should be that much more involved in their kids gaming habits. Don't need a new law and a new bureaucracy for that.
I wasn't able to buy M rated games as a kid and it wasn't because of lack of trying, believe me. The parents new what i was playing at all times until i was 18.
I do understand your points Myworst, however i think the older gamers get the easier it will be for us to self regulate. My parents generation didn't grow up with games like you and i did. They wouldn't have less knowledge(my parents are an exception since they wouldn't even let me have Parasite Eve until i was 18) about them and the ratings system but that's quickly changing as you and i are getting older. Most of us will know what to look for and what to keep out of our kids hands.
Last edited by Jawknee on 7/9/2010 12:27:05 PM
1 up, 0 down
MyWorstNightmar
Friday, July 09, 2010 @ 12:53:56 PM
We go from Arizona wanting to enforce immigration laws that are already on the books, and Obama exagerates, saying Mexicans won't even get to go by ice cream without the police wanting to see their papers.
I don't see this as any different than Walmart already carding kids, but this in the long run will just cause Walmart to HAVE to card kids.
I dunno, I am sure I must be all wet on this topic, and I am not seeing the forest for the trees.
Last edited by MyWorstNightmar on 7/9/2010 12:55:29 PM
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D1g1tal5torm
Friday, July 09, 2010 @ 4:11:24 AM
Reply
pass that law yankee boys.
0 up, 2 down
Highlander
Friday, July 09, 2010 @ 9:30:36 AM
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SmokeyPSD
Friday, July 09, 2010 @ 4:11:25 PM
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BikerSaint
Friday, July 09, 2010 @ 5:18:16 PM
Reply
We're already overrun with too many stupid censorship laws by those few that have their own personal agenda's.
I've been called a long-time rebel-rouser by my governmental sheep herders. But I'm more a freedom fighter because my thinking & ideas are twofold... less Government, less censorship.
I'm not willing to roll over for them, but that I am willing to take a stand against ANY President, the feds, my state, local government, any agency, &/or individual person that want's to stomp on my own individual rights
And besides, most forms of censorship these days isn't to keep us all safe from harm, it's become a tool born from the "FEW" minds of either, misguided, tyrannical, dictatorial sh!t-stirring zealots & self-appointed safety-nanny's who think that what's good for them, just has to be good for us too.
And the biggest & most dangerous part is it's become their #1 favorite tool to try & suppress us, and our way freedoms. By slowly chipping away at our freedoms & choice, they can knock out all our right's one by one till there's nothing left for but to either become a freedom fighter, or just become those very same cowering-in-a-corner sheep they've wanted you to be all along.
"Ya, welcome to the flock...your papers please"
Well, I call bullsh!t on that, and them!!
Besides, there's already laws on our books to combat under 18's from buying any item of mature content. And it's the parent's responsibility, not the government's, to set the proper guidelines & family boundaries.
If anything should be enforced, I'd rather see the self-imposed safety nannys start hanging around all the Gamestop type stores, and charge those parents buying mature games for their 8 year olds, with some form of child neglect or malfeasance.
The writers of our constitution would be spinning in their graves if they saw how watered down the zealots have already made it.
(BTW, as for anyone crying "no politics" about my post, it's my honest reply stating my opinion to MyWorstNightMar's question.... tough, get over your selves!)
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diggiestorm,
Seriously, is that statement all you got?????
That's the typical comment that only the self-absorbed, selfish, "Me Myself, & I" generation ever use.
Here's why you're not thinking too smart with that comment, ........
If this bill passes, you better prepare yourself as more & more countries all over the world jump on the "censorship" bandwagon, in a fallen domino effect.
Then what will you do beside moan, bi*ch, cry, and complain(and blame it on everyone else instead of accussing your very own mirrored reflection) when all your personal rights have also been taken away?????
And just what will you do when your fancy little house of cards called "individual rights" has been suddenly surrounded, blown over, and then trampled by just a few zealots.
Today they're trying for America, but tommorow....the world
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MyWorstNightmar
Friday, July 09, 2010 @ 5:52:49 PM
I am against censorship of any kind. Do you believe this law is censorship? They aren't banning materials are they? I thought it was to put age requirements on the selling of mature games, which many stores already try to enforce, sometimes without much luck due to lazy employees.
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D1g1tal5torm
Saturday, July 10, 2010 @ 2:05:42 PM
Humour seems to be lost on you.
Rant over
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Jawknee
Saturday, July 10, 2010 @ 2:43:32 PM
Bikersaint has convictions and feels strongly about them, doesn't mean hes going to go on a shooting rampage.
What a despicable comment from you. Get lost.
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D1g1tal5torm
Monday, July 12, 2010 @ 3:50:19 AM
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BikerSaint
Friday, July 09, 2010 @ 5:24:37 PM
Reply
Leading Game Developers Supporting the Gamer Petition
http://gamepolitics.com/2010/07/08/leading-game-devs-supporting-gamer-petition
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BikerSaint
Friday, July 09, 2010 @ 5:33:20 PM
Reply
China Moves to Protect Young Online Gamers
June 22, 2010
Beginning August 1, online game operators in China will be forced to take a series of steps to protect online gamers under the age of 18 from inappropriate content and selling or buying items using virtual currency.
According to the Xinhua News Agency, online games created for minors will have to lose any content that would lead to “imitation of behavior that violates social morals and the law.” The regulations deal with content that is horrifying, cruel or otherwise unwholesome, specifically any portrayals of “pornography, cults, superstitions, gambling and violence.”
The virtual currency ban was said to be made possible by a new rule that online game players must register game accounts using their real name.
Gaming operators were also told to “develop techniques that would limit the gaming time of minors in order to prevent addiction, though without specifying what kinds of techniques and a permissible gaming time.”
Bloomberg reported that shares in Tencent Holdings Ltd., described as China’s largest Internet company in terms of market value, and a “leading provider of virtual currency services,” saw its shares fall as much as 5.3 percent after the new regulations were announced.
http://gamepolitics.com/2010/06/22/china-moves-protect-young-online-gamers
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China Bans "Vulgar" Game Adverts
July 8, 2010
China’s Ministry of Culture has grown weary of online game companies using vulgar, violent or profane tactics in order to lure consumers to purchase their titles, so it has banned the practice.
The BBC reports that, beginning next month, Chinese officials will be able to force website owners to delete any vulgar content employed in online promotions. Supposedly, one model named Shou Shou (pictured), who was recently embroiled in a sex video controversy, was asked to promote a role-playing game while another unnamed Japanese adult film star was being used to draw attention to the Game Warrior OL.
“Social commentators” worried that the practice, though not illegal at the time, could “undermine the public's morals. “
The BBC added that, “The new policy has been covered widely in the state-controlled media and on websites here, accompanied of course by photos of the same scantily clad models who have upset the bureaucrats.” Who are we to break ranks?
Update: AFP adds a specific date for the implementation (August 1), while noting that users who sign up to play a game will also have to use "a valid identity card," after that date, a move which was alluded to earlier.
http://gamepolitics.com/2010/07/08/china-bans-quotvulgarquot-game-adverts
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BikerSaint
Friday, July 09, 2010 @ 9:08:26 PM
Reply
Yes, I believe it's censorship for 3 reasons
1. We already have all the laws on the books against minors buying mature/adult themed products, so no more of the same are even needed. And there's already laws against bad register biscuits too, they just need to be enforced better(just like how they do the under-age cigarette store stings, sending in cooperating non-smoking minors hired to try to buy smokes illegally).
Like I said before, if any new bill should be made at all, it should be one that charges those few bad parent's with child neglect or parental malfeasance.
2. We already have the ratings we need to be knowledgeable in place and they work 100% perfectly.
It's only because of some unscrupulous register biscuits, and these bad parent's that we see all the time, who either spoil their kid with everything the little rugrat wants, or they have no proper parenting skills, so when the lil' type pulls their best patented psychological ploy(alias:"THE TANTRUM") at the top of their lungs in the store, the parent can't, or won't handle it.
So they just automatically accept defeat & give in every single time.
BTW, those parent's should just go legally change their last names to "Stradivarius", cause their kid's will forever be playing them like a fiddle.
3. I believe this new bill that Arny's trying to get, isn't to enforce the under 18 law that's already on the books at all, but it's actually being done to stifle the games themselves, though by a sneaky indirect mean.
The way I see it it will do 2 things if this bill passes,
1. It's a litmus test towards adding even more new related bills that slowly chip away everyone's rights. And if it passes, then it's already too late, because you'll be watching a new flood of seemingly innocent bills from all over the 50 states start pouring out too in more attempt's on eroding individual rights.
2. You have to seriously read between the lines with this bill.
I mean...like why add this bill when there's so many laws already in place for the same thing?
So I start thinking like them, and I now can see a hidden agenda & a ulterior motive of what I think this bill is really trying to do.
And that is, that if it passes, they're hoping this will cause more store chains like Walmart to refuse any game with the new rating attached to it, thereby choking the funds for games with the new rating sticker, whether they're actually uber-violent and/or raunchy, OR NOT!!!!.
And furthermore, they are also hoping it will also confuse the developers & publishers enough that they won't take any chances making any adult games, and just pump out the watered-down games that Arny & his hidden-agenda, behind-the-scenes, cronies actually want.
BTW, I don't think Arny came up with this idea at all, since almost all his films & video games have violence and more in them.
I think that Arny's just being used as a puppet who's string's are really being pulled by someone(or some group) that's quite powerful politically, & rich.
Either that or Arny's got future political plans, and/or someone up higher his political food chain has got some major dirt on him that he doesn't ever want to get out in the media.
Last edited by BikerSaint on 7/9/2010 9:14:00 PM
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Jawknee
Saturday, July 10, 2010 @ 10:22:43 AM
Your right, children shouldn't be allowed to buy mature content and if they do that falls on the parents. Government is NOT the parent. We don't need another nanny state law. It's this kind of arrogance from the government elites that got people so pissed off. This law is just more f this arrogance.
Last edited by Jawknee on 7/10/2010 10:29:54 AM
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Jawknee
Saturday, July 10, 2010 @ 11:59:59 AM
Surely if you think there is a difference between movies and games where games should be more heavily regulated then movies, you can see the difference between video games and substance abuse.
I cite from my own convictions. I kindly ask you NOT to assume to know who or where i get my information from. I don't question your motives or where you get your convictions because i have no way of knowing. I ask that you extend me the same respect.
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Fane1024
Saturday, July 10, 2010 @ 5:44:05 PM
Neither the ESRB nor the government have the right to PREVENT anyone from buying something protected by the First Amendment (i.e., not alcohol or cigarettes). They can rate it for content, but once they start enforcing those ratings with fines or jail time, it is de facto censorship.
Likewise, Walmart can choose not to sell an item at all, but can not discriminate by selling it to some people and not others.
If you don't want your kids getting a hold of "adult" material, that's on you. Just know you're going to fail regardless of what you do.
p.s. If the government were really elite, they wouldn't do stupid things like this. It's because they pander to the hoi polloi that this sort of legislation exists.
Last edited by Fane1024 on 7/10/2010 5:48:44 PM
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Highlander
Reply
Wednesday, July 07, 2010 @ 11:11:34 AM