Australia seems to love it's censorship. So much in fact that the Aussie AG has indefinitely halted the introduction R18+ rating for games. Censorship ministers back in March agreed to collect public opinion on the proposed introduction of a R18+ classification for games and release a report on the issue. However, it seems one man want's to take Jack Thompson's place. South Australian Attorney General Michael Atkinson refused to allow the report to be published. The reason. Well see, Aussies have to protect their kangaroos kids from buying R18+ games. Now wait a second. If I'm not mistaken, doesn't Australia already have a 15+ rating? Why can't the R+18 rating be forced like the 15+ rating that is already being enforced?

"Games may pose a far greater problem than other media - particularly films - because their interactive nature could exacerbate their impact," Mr Atkinson said. "The risk of interactivity on players of computer games with highly violent content is increased aggressive behaviour."

Right. Because we all know that people don't imitate stuff from movies, TV shows, and books...right? Never fear. The issue is on the agenda for discussion at the next Standing Committee of Attorneys General meeting commencing next month.

Source: TheAge