 |
|
|
 |
|
|
 |
R YOU RATED? |
|
|
R18+ classification debate continues |
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
Unless you have been asleep for the last 12 months, the media coverage, both here and overseas, surrounding the ongoing R18+ classification debate in Australia has been virtually impossible to ignore.
In December 2009, the Australian Government sought public consultation on whether or not the introduction of an R18+ for video games should be added to the National Classification Scheme.
The deadline for submissions ended in February and in May, the Minister for Home Affairs, the Hon Brendan O’Connor MP, released a media brief confirming that nearly 60,000 submissions were received. And surprise, surprise, 98 percent of these were in favour of introducing an adult classification for video games.
Video games are rated by the Australian Classification Board (ACB), a classification body that superseded the Office of Film and Literature (OFLC) in 2006. In 2007/2008, the ACB made classification decisions on 961 video games.
Despite the obvious omission of the R18+ rating, the current system consists of four classification ratings. What are they and what do they mean? We take a look at the classifications that determine what you play.
T H E C U R R E N T C L A S S I F I C A T I O N S Y S T E M
G – GENERAL
This is as low as it goes on the video game classification front. The Walt Disney of ratings, G should only feature real low end violence. If you punch somebody in a G rated game, then you’ll have to explain why. Sex, nudity and drug use are about as welcome as gun in an airport. Swearing will not be tolerated.
PG – PARENTAL GUIDANCE
If you’re under the tender age of 15, you are forbidden to play PG rated games without the content being assessed by your folks. There’s a chance you’ll see mild sexual activity and nudity, although these will have to come with an explanation. The only drugs you’re likely to encounter here are the ones you take for a headache. If you swear, then you better make sure nobody hears you.
M – MATURE
Ramping up the classification line is M. Threatening content is allowed, although it must be moderated and justification should accompany any violent acts. Sexual activity must be kept to a Dickensian level of decency and any drug will need to be justified by context. A moderate level of swearing is allowed. Games classified M are not recommended for persons under the age of 15.
MA15+ – MATURE ACCOMPANIED
This is currently the highest classification rating for video games. Strong themes and violence are permitted. Sexual violence must be explained to the letter and sexual activity can be implied. Swearing is allowed, however limitations on the threatening use of profanity apply. Drug use and nudity are allowed – if, yep, you guessed it, they’re accompanied by an explanation. A legally restricted category, a MA15+ classification is considered unsuitable for persons under the age of 15.
RC – REFUSED CLASSIFICATION
Video games judged unsuitable for release in Australia will be slapped with a Refused Classification notice. Generally, the majority of games that have been refused classification must either be re-edited for resubmission, or join the ever growing list of games banned in Australia. This is a broad category, and a game can be banned for many reasons. The gap between a MA15+ and RC is wider than Jocelyn Wildenstein’s jaw line, which is why it is vitally important for Australia to obtain a R18+ rating. The inconsistencies between games issued a MA15+ classification and those that are RC are at times very difficult to pinpoint. Madworld anybody?
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
 |
|
|
|
