In a somewhat surprising turn of events, Australia’s Office of Film and Literature refused classification for Valve’s zombie shooter sequel Left 4 Dead 2 citing:
The game contains realistic, frenetic and unrelenting violence which is inflicted upon “the Infected” who are living humans infected with a rabies-like virus that causes them to act violently… it is the use of the “melee” weapons such as the crowbar, axe, chainsaw and Samurai sword which inflict the most damage. These close in attacks cause copious amounts of blood spray and splatter, decapitations and limb dismemberment as well as locational damage where contact is made to the enemy which may reveal skeletal bits and gore. Projectile shots to infected humans can cause abdominal wounds which can reveal innards or even cause intestines to spill from the wounds.
In Australia, the highest rating possible for games is MA 15+, which doesn’t allow for the gory bits described above. Since the game remains unrated, it can’t be sold in Australia. In other words, it’s essentially banned.
Valve’s VP of marketing, Doug Lombardi reacted to the news and told Shacknews that they were “surprised” and “pretty bummed.” However, he offered no hnits as to whether the game’s violence would be toned down to a level acceptable for Australia’s sensitive, sensitive people.
If not, how will Australians be properly trained and equipped when a real zombie outbreak occurs? Mark my words, it’ll happen one of these days. *shifts eyes*
[UPDATE 10/7/09: Well, that was a quick reversal.]
Related Posts:
