Games
China’s Ministry of Culture tightens grip on MMO industry
Nov 19th
China’s Ministry of Culture said in a circular that it would require game operators to re-examine the content of the games they offer to make sure it doesn’t contain and “obscene or violent content” or anything that might be considered “lowbrow.” But what it really means is that the Ministry of Culture wants to stamp out any themes that go against the government’s socialist views. The circular also said that operators must limit the number of virtual marriages and player-versus-player combat sessions in these games.’
New York Tests Xbox-Based Alert System
Nov 19th
Gamers are used to confronting invading terrorists, nuclear attacks, and natural calamities—in virtual form. But those living in New York State could soon receive warnings about real emergencies through their favorite video console.
http://www.informationweek.com/news/government/state-local/showArticle.jhtml?articleID=221900336
Russia Gives MW2 Cold Shoulder
Nov 16th
The Russian government is apparently not a fan of how the country is represented in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2, as all copies of the console version of the game have been recalled from stores.
http://www.gamepolitics.com/2009/11/16/russia-gives-mw2-cold-shoulder
Command & Conquer 4: Tiberian Twilight gets a launch date
Nov 12th
Forget Modern Warfare 2, the real action is coming out on March 16 when C&C 4 is released. Teasers and trailers have been slowly filtering out over the last few months but EA finally let released the launch date. I’m already making my construction paper chain to count down the days. Oh, and there’s good news if you’re going to pre-order the game.
http://www.crunchgear.com/2009/11/12/command-conquer-4-tiberian-twilight-gets-a-launch-date/
Microsoft bans 1 million Xbox Live players
Nov 12th
In a statement Microsoft said its “commitment to combat piracy and support safer and more secure gameplay for the more than 20 million members of the Xbox Live community remains a top priority. All consumers should know that piracy is illegal and modifying their Xbox 360 console violates the Xbox Live terms of use, will void their warranty and result in a ban from Xbox Live. We can assure you that if an Xbox Live member follows the Xbox Live terms of use, purchased a retail copy of Modern Warfare 2 and played the game on an unmodified Xbox 360, no action will be taken.”
AusGamers Left 4 Dead 2 Demo Censorship Comparison Video
Nov 5th
AusGamers put together a video showing off the huge differences between the censored Australian version of the game that Australians are forced to absorb because of the lack of an R18+ rating.
