Australia has finally ended what amounted to strict blanket censorship of video games not meeting the former highest available age rating of R15+. The new R18+ rating is slated to be introduced by the end of the year and will ensure adult Australian gamers will be able to enjoy adult entertainment, a concept previously anathema to Australian officials, who have repeatedly struck down previous attempts to legislate the issue.
“I am delighted that NSW has decided to support what is not just a practical public policy, but a very popular policy,” said Minister for Justice and Understatement Brendan O’Connor, though we might have made one of those up. “Once introduced, the new classification will also afford adults the opportunity to view material designed for adults.”
The History of Video Game Censorship in Australia
For many years, Australia has had one of the most stringent video game classification systems in the world. The absence of an R18+ rating meant that any game deemed unsuitable for those under 15 was effectively banned. This led to numerous high-profile games being either heavily censored or outright refused classification, preventing their legal sale in the country. Titles such as “Mortal Kombat,” “Left 4 Dead 2,” and “The Witcher 2” faced significant hurdles, often requiring developers to alter content to meet the R15+ criteria.
The push for an R18+ rating has been a long and arduous journey, with multiple attempts to introduce the classification being thwarted by conservative elements within the government. Critics argued that the lack of an adult rating was not only patronizing to adult gamers but also ineffective, as it did not prevent the importation of unclassified games through online channels.
Implications of the New R18+ Rating
The introduction of the R18+ rating marks a significant shift in Australian policy, aligning it more closely with international standards. This change is expected to have several far-reaching implications:
1. Greater Creative Freedom for Developers: Game developers will now have the freedom to create content without the fear of censorship. This could lead to more mature and diverse storytelling, as well as the inclusion of complex themes that were previously off-limits.
2. Consumer Choice and Responsibility: Adult gamers will have the autonomy to choose what content they wish to consume. This shift places greater responsibility on individuals to make informed decisions about their entertainment.
3. Economic Benefits: The gaming industry is a significant contributor to the economy. The new rating could attract more international developers to the Australian market, boosting local sales and potentially creating job opportunities within the industry.
4. Parental Control: The R18+ rating will help parents make more informed choices about the games their children play. Clearer distinctions between age-appropriate content can aid in better monitoring and regulation within households.
5. Cultural Acceptance: The acceptance of an R18+ rating reflects a broader cultural shift towards recognizing video games as a legitimate form of entertainment for adults. This could lead to greater acceptance and understanding of gaming as an art form.
Despite the positive outlook, some concerns remain. Critics worry that the new rating might not be strictly enforced, leading to minors gaining access to adult content. However, proponents argue that the benefits far outweigh the potential risks, emphasizing the importance of personal responsibility and parental oversight.
The introduction of the R18+ rating in Australia is a landmark decision that brings the country in line with global standards. It represents a victory for adult gamers who have long advocated for the right to access mature content. As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, this change is a step towards a more inclusive and diverse entertainment industry.
Source ALP
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
