Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Mortal Kombat Komplete Edition outed by BBFC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/02/mortal-kombat-komplete-edition-outed-by-bbfc/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/02/mortal-kombat-komplete-edition-outed-by-bbfc/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/02/mortal-kombat-komplete-edition-outed-by-bbfc/#comments It would seem Warner Bros. is looking to re-release Mortal Kombat, perhaps bundled with all of the DLC characters released. At least, that's what we gleaned from a recent rating that popped up on the BBFC, the British Board of Film Classifications. They also rate video games.

February 17 is the listed launch date for this potential re-release. But right now, outside of the date and our own speculation, there isn't much else to go on. We expect that will change soon enough.

JoystiqMortal Kombat Komplete Edition outed by BBFC originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Dec 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbfcmicrosoftmortal-kombat-2011Netherrealm-Studiosplaystationps3ratingwarner-broswbiexboxFri, 02 Dec 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Killzone 3 contains over an hour of cutscenes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/13/killzone-3-contains-over-an-hour-of-cutscenes/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/13/killzone-3-contains-over-an-hour-of-cutscenes/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/13/killzone-3-contains-over-an-hour-of-cutscenes/#comments The "3" in "Killzone 3" might as well stand for the quantity of cinematics in Guerilla's latest shooter -- three times the amount employed by Killzone 2. The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) said in its bestowing of an "18" (mature) rating on the game that its cutscenes total 70 minutes. Its predecesor, by comparison, contained 25 minutes worth of story sequences, according to the BBFC.

Let's see: We know that characters voiced by Malcolm McDowell and Ray Winstone will be chewing up the scenery for a good chunk of that hour and 10 minutes; the rest will therefore be composed of shouting space marines and other guys who are also shouting but have red "eyes." Someone get Michael Bay on the phone!

JoystiqKillzone 3 contains over an hour of cutscenes originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Jan 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbfccinematicscutscenesfpsguerilla-gameskillzoneKillzone-3playstationps3sonyThu, 13 Jan 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BBFC uncovers Activision's plans to hold a massive Blood Drive]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/03/bbfc-uncovers-activisions-plans-to-hold-a-massive-blood-drive/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/03/bbfc-uncovers-activisions-plans-to-hold-a-massive-blood-drive/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/03/bbfc-uncovers-activisions-plans-to-hold-a-massive-blood-drive/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Yes, after suffering a few years of not-so-flattering opinions among hardcore gamers, Activision has decided to use its considerable wealth and power for more altruistic enterprises. The British Board of Film Classification recently revealed that the gargantuan publisher is hosting a Blood Drive of unparalleled scope later this year, which it hopes will deliver billions of gallons of precious hemoglobinz to people across the globe who need those hemoglobinz.

Hah! We're just kidding, of course. Can you imagine? No, no, the BBFC just rated a game coming from Activision called Blood Drive, a car combat action game for the Xbox 360 and PS3. The rating mentions "strong language and gory violence," leading us to believe it will focus more on the killing side of said genre, rather than the racing side. According to CVG, an Amazon listing which has since been pulled gave the title an October 26 launch date. We'll let you know when we hear more. (A real blood drive. Oh man. You should have seen your faces!)

JoystiqBBFC uncovers Activision's plans to hold a massive Blood Drive originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Sep 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionbbfcblood-drivemicrosoftplaystationps3xboxFri, 03 Sep 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BBFC: Dragon Age Ultimate Edition to include Awakening and all DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/03/dragon-age-ultimate-edition-to-include-awakening-and-all-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/03/dragon-age-ultimate-edition-to-include-awakening-and-all-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/03/dragon-age-ultimate-edition-to-include-awakening-and-all-dlc/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Despite popping up on GameStop and having been rated by Australia's OFLC, the so-called "Dragon Age Origins - Ultimate Edition" still hasn't been officially announced by EA. Now the British Board of Film Classification has gone ahead and listed the supposed contents of the re-release, which is "made up of a number of separate components," including:
While the GameStop listing has since been removed, the retailer had posted a $60 price and an October 12 release date for the Ultimate Edition. We'll be sure to note the official details when EA officially announces them.

JoystiqBBFC: Dragon Age Ultimate Edition to include Awakening and all DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Sep 2010 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbfcBioWareDragon-AgeDragon-Age-Originsdragon-age-origins-awakeningdragon-age-origins-darkspawn-chroniclesdragon-age-origins-dlcDragon-Age-Origins-Ultimate-Editiondragon-age-origins-wardens-questEAElectronic-Artsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3Ultimate-EditionxboxFri, 03 Sep 2010 17:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Batman: Arkham Asylum GOTY edition outed by BBFC listing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/14/batman-arkham-asylum-game-of-the-year-edition-listing/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/14/batman-arkham-asylum-game-of-the-year-edition-listing/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/14/batman-arkham-asylum-game-of-the-year-edition-listing/#comments A BBFC classification for a "Game of the Year" edition of Batman: Arkham Asylum has popped up online, causing quite a stir here at Joystiq HQ. While we all agree that Batman was "a game of the year," the listing offers no clues as to what would be included in a GOTY package. So, allow us to activate detective mode:

First, there are the two DLC packs for the game to consider: the "Insane Night" Map Pack (free for everyone) and "Prey In The Darkness," available on PS3 in the US and on both PS3 and Xbox 360 in Europe. Also, those who pre-ordered the original release from GameStop received access to the challenge map "Dem Bones," while those that snagged the fancy Collector's Edition got their own unique challenge map in "Crime Alley" -- both could certainly be included in a special edition re-release. Considering all the DLC out there (but c'mon, we want more Rocksteady!), there's a valid GOTY edition in the making here. And how about a batarang upgrade, too? (That cheap plastic one just didn't cut it.)

We've turned on our 'stiq signal in the hopes of attracting Warner Bros., Eidos and Rocksteady for clarification. We'll let you know just as soon as they show up on our rooftop.

[Thanks, C.A.]

JoystiqBatman: Arkham Asylum GOTY edition outed by BBFC listing originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Jan 2010 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batmanbatman-arkham-asylumbbfceidosMicrosoftrocksteadyrocksteady-studioswarner-bros-interactiveXbox-360Thu, 14 Jan 2010 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavy Rain handed '15' rating, BBFC explains]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/heavy-rain-handed-15-rating-bbfc-explains/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/heavy-rain-handed-15-rating-bbfc-explains/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/heavy-rain-handed-15-rating-bbfc-explains/#comments In a rather surprising act of mature judgment, the British Board of Film Classification has assigned Quantic Dream's Heavy Rain a "15" rating. Given the so-called adult themes of the western interactive novel (a genre we're classifying right here), the expectation had been that the game would receive an "18" rating, which is even reflected on retail art mock-ups. The other European ratings board, PEGI, has yet to post its classification for the game.

Speaking with IncGamers, a BBFC spokesperson explained, "These are obviously not real people, or real people acting, and it all depends on the level of blood and violence. We use the same classification for games as we do for films, and this game is suitable for a 15 audience." That's odd, we could have sworn many "real people" acted in Heavy Rain. Still, we're pleasantly surprised to see a ratings board bring equity into play by reviewing a game within the same guidelines used for movies.

Gallery: Heavy Rain


[Via Eurogamer]

JoystiqHeavy Rain handed '15' rating, BBFC explains originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jan 2010 11:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbfccensorshipclassificationheavy-rainInteractive-Dramaquantic-dreamratingsSCESCEAsonySony-Computer-EntertainmentSony-Computer-Entertainment-Americawestern-interactive-novelWed, 06 Jan 2010 11:32:00 EST<![CDATA[BBFC: Sega compiling Sonic games for DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/bbfc-sega-compiling-sonic-games-for-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/bbfc-sega-compiling-sonic-games-for-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/bbfc-sega-compiling-sonic-games-for-ds/#commentsThe BBFC classification site lists a "Sonic Classic Collection" coming to DS soon. Normally, with these ratings, we'd be left to speculate as to the identity of the games on the collection -- however, the BBFC helpfully provided a list of games on the cart!

According to the rating, it'll feature Sonic 1-3, plus Sonic and Knuckles -- with the ability to virtually "Lock-on" and play as Knuckles in the older games. Also included in the shockingly specific list of in-game content: Sonic Chronicles and "The History of Sonic" video content and the art gallery.

We can only hope it turns out better than Sonic the Hedgehog Genesis on GBA.

[Via Kombo]

JoystiqBBFC: Sega compiling Sonic games for DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbfcsegasonicsonic-classic-collectionsonic-the-hedgehogFri, 20 Nov 2009 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Publishers face big fines for lying to PEGI]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/25/publishers-face-big-fines-for-lying-to-pegi/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/25/publishers-face-big-fines-for-lying-to-pegi/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/25/publishers-face-big-fines-for-lying-to-pegi/#comments
The UK-based Entertainment and Leisure Software Publishers Association (ELSPA) is trying to show that the PEGI system -- which it supported in the great BBFC ousting of '09 -- is by no means weaker than the BBFC ratings that used to be oversee the region. Speaking with MCV, the group took the opportunity to warn publishers: "Abuse [the] new system and risk your future." Publishers may face fines of €500,000 ($696K) if they lie on the questionnaire, which allows PEGI and the Video Standards Council to determine an appropriate rating for their games.

ELSPA's statement and teeth bearing are to ease concerns that PEGI won't be strong enough for the UK when it's implemented this holiday. ELSPA is essentially using a "see, we told them to play nice" tactic to save face, just in case the rating system it supported has an incident.

JoystiqPublishers face big fines for lying to PEGI originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Jun 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbfcbritainelspapegipoliticsratingukThu, 25 Jun 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Baking news: GTA IV meth recipe flawed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/22/baking-news-gta-iv-meth-recipe-flawed/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/22/baking-news-gta-iv-meth-recipe-flawed/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/22/baking-news-gta-iv-meth-recipe-flawed/#comments From the obscure annals of May 2008 comes the testimony of BBFC head David Cooke, who confirmed that the now irrelevant UK ratings board had investigated the authenticity of "instructional information about how to make the drug crystal meth" in Grand Theft Auto IV. The incident was brought to light today in a Times Online article examining PEGI's recent appointment as the sole UK video games classification authority and allegations that the organization might not be as thorough as the BBFC had been in its review process; for example: testing out GTA IV's so-called meth recipe.

We're not certain just how far the BBFC went in its drug trial, but "independent advice" was sought in order to deem that "crucial ingredients and techniques were missing" from the scrutinized game content. What does this mean for the rest of us? Well, one, if you're in the planning stages of a homebrewed meth lab, you should probably look beyond GTA IV's suggestions. And, two, if you've already got your lab up and running, you may want to contact your legal team and tell them that the "GTA made me do it" defense isn't going to work this time. That is, only if the coppers catch you before you blow yourself up.

[Via GamePolitics]

JoystiqBaking news: GTA IV meth recipe flawed originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Jun 2009 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbfccrankcrystalglassgta-ivgtaivicemethmethamphetaminerecipeukMon, 22 Jun 2009 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[PEGI becomes UK standard for ratings, other organization gains power to ban games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/16/pegi-becomes-uk-standard-for-ratings-other-organization-gains-p/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/16/pegi-becomes-uk-standard-for-ratings-other-organization-gains-p/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/16/pegi-becomes-uk-standard-for-ratings-other-organization-gains-p/#comments
The UK government announced today that the PEGI system will become the sole classification standard for video games in the region. However, it's not that simple. The government also gave the power to ban games to the Video Standards Council, another independent system that has been around since 1989, who will apparently determine if games coming into the UK comply with PEGI ratings before giving it license to sell.

The whole situation sounds even more confusing than the BBFC vs. PEGI issues that we've been reporting on for years. Speaking of the BBFC, the organization will no longer be involved in the classification of games, which is sad -- the group did give us some uncomfortable laughs over the years.

We're still not exactly clear on how the UK's new rating system works, but according to Baroness Shepherd, president of the VSC, the group will exercise its "new power independently of the PEGI system, providing a 'fail-safe' for the UK - protecting children through PEGI and addressing UK-specific sensibilities by refusing classification of any game which falls foul of the Video Recordings Act. This decision is the right one for consumers in the UK."

We'll see.

Source -- PEGI becomes UK standard for game ratings
Source -- VSC given power to ban videogames
Source -- VSC given tough powers for non-compliance of PEGI system

JoystiqPEGI becomes UK standard for ratings, other organization gains power to ban games originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbfcenglandpegiratingsratings-systemukTue, 16 Jun 2009 15:40:00 EST<![CDATA[UK retailers caught selling mature games to undercover teen]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/20/uk-retailers-caught-selling-mature-games-to-undercover-teen/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/20/uk-retailers-caught-selling-mature-games-to-undercover-teen/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/20/uk-retailers-caught-selling-mature-games-to-undercover-teen/#commentsA sting operation set up by the UK's Trading Standards organization caught 12 retailers selling games with BBFC '18' ratings to a 14-year-old -- specifically, the 14-year-old who volunteered to go undercover for the group. In the US, such negligence from cashiers would merely be disappointing. In the UK, it's illegal.

Of the sixteen retail outlets visited last week by the young narc, only four declined to sell contraband games: Gamestation, GAME, PC World and WH Smith. Some of the other retailers even had automatic warnings on their registers, which the cashiers ignored as they broke the law.

"Given the previous good compliance record with attempted test purchasing of tobacco in Dundee," a Trading Standards rep said, "it is very disappointing that so many large retailers have ignored their own systems in regard to restricted video game sales. Clearly there are issues that need to be addressed, and we will be following up matters with the retailers involved."

JoystiqUK retailers caught selling mature games to undercover teen originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Apr 2009 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbfcmature-ratingtrading-standardsukMon, 20 Apr 2009 13:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumorang: BBFC rates 'Silent Hill']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/10/rumorang-bbfc-rates-possible-silent-hill-remake/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/10/rumorang-bbfc-rates-possible-silent-hill-remake/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/10/rumorang-bbfc-rates-possible-silent-hill-remake/#comments
We hope Konami may soon be ready to scare some truth out of earlier rumors of a Silent Hill remake for the Wii and PSP. The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) recently posted a '15' rating for Silent Hill, with a listing that contains an interesting breakdown of scenes from the game with titles like "ANKH ROOM" and "CYBIL'S DEATH."

Last month's rumor laid dev duties at the feet of Silent Hill: Origins creator Climax, though Konami has yet to make anything official. We're trying to reach either Konami or Climax for comment ... but the lines are cut, and there's an unsettling noise coming from behind the door.

Of course, this could just as well be a PSN re-release. And yes, we'll take one of those too.

[Via Kotaku]

JoystiqRumorang: BBFC rates 'Silent Hill' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Mar 2009 09:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbfcclimaxkonamiNintendoratingrumorrumorangsilent-hillsurvival-horrorWiiTue, 10 Mar 2009 09:10:00 EST<![CDATA[BBFC doesn't note racism in submitted Resident Evil 5 scene]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/02/bbfc-doesnt-note-racism-in-submitted-resident-evil-5-scene/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/02/bbfc-doesnt-note-racism-in-submitted-resident-evil-5-scene/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/02/bbfc-doesnt-note-racism-in-submitted-resident-evil-5-scene/#comments
The British Board of Film Classification does not see an "issue around racism" in a particular Resident Evil 5 scene that may be considered inflammatory. Kikizo asked the BBFC's communication head, Sue Clark, about a specific scene where a (*minor spoiler warning*) white, blond woman is dragged by a black man and "impregnated" with the virus, in a way that evokes racist imagery.

Clark explains that the version of the scene submitted to the BBFC didn't have a black man dragging the woman. She explains that if the scene submitted were not the same as the retail version, it would be "illegal under the terms of the VRA [Video Recordings Act ]." RE5 producer Jun Takeuchi told us in a recent interview that when players finally get their hands on the full game, he believes "they will see and understand what it is all about; that there is no racial element to it at all."

JoystiqBBFC doesn't note racism in submitted Resident Evil 5 scene originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Mar 2009 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbfccapcomkikizoracismre5resident-evil-5Mon, 02 Mar 2009 10:58:00 EST<![CDATA[UK survey: 74% want independent ratings body]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/27/uk-survey-74-want-independent-ratings-body/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/27/uk-survey-74-want-independent-ratings-body/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/27/uk-survey-74-want-independent-ratings-body/#comments
A recent survey conducted by YouGov for the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) revealed that most UK citizens want an independent body to issue game ratings. GI.biz reports that a majority of those surveyed also said that they would prefer to see games use the same rating standard as movies. The BBFC hopes to use this survey as leverage in its bid to become the UK's primary game ratings body. Currently, the BBFC only rates games with a certain level of mature content, though that may change thanks to last year's Byron Review.

The BBFC competes with Europe's PEGI ratings, which already appear on UK game releases. The Entertainment and Leisure Software Publishers Association (ELSPA) argues that the PEGI system is superior to the BBFC. Said ELSPA director general Mike Rawlinson, "Gamers no longer just play with their mates but play online, and we need a system that reflects this situation and protects their interests," adding that the PEGI system is the "right solution for child safety." Rawlinson further states that ELSPA will be promoting the PEGI system with a "multi million pound campaign" designed to get the word out to UK parents. Finally, he says that ELSPA has conducted its own research with YouGov that supports its argument.

The irony of all this, of course, is that this fight is being waged to make ratings less confusing.

JoystiqUK survey: 74% want independent ratings body originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Feb 2009 13:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbfcbyron-reviewelspapegiukFri, 27 Feb 2009 13:11:00 EST<![CDATA[MadWorld passes Australia's OFLC with MA 15+ rating]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/19/madworld-passes-australias-oflc-with-ma-15-rating/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/19/madworld-passes-australias-oflc-with-ma-15-rating/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/19/madworld-passes-australias-oflc-with-ma-15-rating/#commentsFiled under: ,


Australia's governmental ratings board, the OFLC, has classified the unabashedly violent MadWorld with an "MA 15+" rating. Sega informed IGN that the game was not "edited or adjusted" for the land down under. Last week, the title received an "18" rating in Britain, and having now passed both the BBFC and the OFLC, it's expected that the United States' ESRB will hand the title a "Mature" sticker.

It's certainly interesting that Australia let the game pass with an MA 15+, at least based on the footage and images we've seen. For better or worse, perhaps the region is loosening up its policies in lieu of implementing an R18+ rating for games.

[Via IGN]

JoystiqMadWorld passes Australia's OFLC with MA 15+ rating originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Jan 2009 11:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbfcmadworldoflcplatinum-gamessegaWiiMon, 19 Jan 2009 11:14:00 EST<![CDATA[BBFC grants MadWorld '18' rating, no cuts made]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/15/bbfc-grants-madworld-18-rating-in-uk-no-cuts-made/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/15/bbfc-grants-madworld-18-rating-in-uk-no-cuts-made/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/15/bbfc-grants-madworld-18-rating-in-uk-no-cuts-made/#commentsFiled under:


Despite the Daily Mail's best attempts to whip up a fuss, the BBFC has granted MadWorld an "18" certificate in the UK. It is the eighth Wii game to receive the rating (see the full list after the jump), and was passed with -- yay! -- no cuts whatsoever. Sega is likely to face a bigger obstacle when it comes to getting the game rated elsewhere, and it seems to realize this. MadWorld won't even be released in Germany or Japan, while Australia's notoriously conservative OFLC may take some convincing.

Elsewhere in MadWorld, uh, world, IGN has posted one of the first hands-on previews, including a full breakdown of the controls. The Nunchuk will be used to make protagonist Jack move and jump (with Z), the C button centers the camera behind Jack, punching people in the face is done with A, while the chainsaw attacks are on the B trigger. Holding A lets you pick people up, which is where you can perform special moves by waggling.

Continue reading BBFC grants MadWorld '18' rating, no cuts made

JoystiqBBFC grants MadWorld '18' rating, no cuts made originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Jan 2009 15:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionbbfccensorshipmadworldplatinum-gamesratingsegaukviolenceThu, 15 Jan 2009 15:27:00 EST<![CDATA[MadWorld receives '18' rating from BBFC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/15/madworld-receives-18-rating-from-bbfc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/15/madworld-receives-18-rating-from-bbfc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/15/madworld-receives-18-rating-from-bbfc/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The British Board of Film Classification has passed Sega's MadWorld with an "18" rating. The Wii title received the classification for containing "very strong, stylized, bloody violence." Sega has been working with both the BBFC and the United States' ESRB to avoid the respective regions' "kiss of death." The publisher contributed builds at various times for feedback on what needed to be changed to dodge being "unclassified" in the Britain and receiving an "AO" rating in the States.

We're unaware if Sega has also been showing builds to Australia's conservative OFLC. If any region is going to "ban" MadWorld, it'll be the Aussies, due to the region's lack of an R18+ rating for games.

JoystiqMadWorld receives '18' rating from BBFC originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Jan 2009 09:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbfcesrbmadworldoflcsegaWiiThu, 15 Jan 2009 09:09:00 EST<![CDATA[GTA: Chinatown Wars receives '18' rating from BBFC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/gta-chinatown-wars-receives-18-rating-from-bbfc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/gta-chinatown-wars-receives-18-rating-from-bbfc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/gta-chinatown-wars-receives-18-rating-from-bbfc/#commentsFiled under: ,


Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars has passed the British Board of Film Classification with an "18" rating, which is equivalent to the ESRB's "Mature" rating. According to Edge, the DS title -- the first ever to receive an 18 rating by the BBFC -- passed with "no cuts made."

Apparently it was a very clear edict from Rockstar's Sam Houser to developers that the game receive an M rating and maintain the franchise's adult tone. The game has yet to receive ratings from the United States' ESRB or Australia's conservative OFLC.

[Via Edge]

JoystiqGTA: Chinatown Wars receives '18' rating from BBFC originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Jan 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbfcbritainDSesrbgrand-theft-autogrand-theft-auto-chinatown-warsoflcrockstartake-twoukMon, 12 Jan 2009 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Chinatown Wars receives '18' rating in UK]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/09/chinatown-wars-receives-18-rating-in-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/09/chinatown-wars-receives-18-rating-in-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/09/chinatown-wars-receives-18-rating-in-uk/#commentsFiled under:

Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars has been granted an "18" certificate in Britain by the BBFC (British Board of Film Classification, and no, we don't understand that, either).

Huge surprise, right? Well, no. We already know about the drug-dealing subgame, and any GTA game receiving a restrictive age rating is hardly news. But then Chinatown Wars is also the first DS title in the UK to receive such a classification, a landmark that is worth recording. Incidentally, no DS title has yet obtained an "Adults Only" rating from the ESRB (indeed, only six have been rated "M" -- C.O.R.E., theresia, Ultimate Mortal Kombat, Dementium, Touch the Dead, and Resident Evil: Deadly Silence); could Chinatown Wars be the first?

Also of interest: the BBFC's listing for the game reveals that the title contains 168 minutes of in-game cut-scenes. Wow!


[Via MCV]

JoystiqChinatown Wars receives '18' rating in UK originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Jan 2009 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionbbfccensorshipchinatown-warsgrand-theft-autogtagta-chinatown-warsratingrockstarsandboxtake-twoukFri, 09 Jan 2009 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[BBFC: Seriously, THQ is publishing 50 Cent: Blood on the Sand]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/19/bbfc-seriously-thq-is-publishing-50-cent-blood-on-the-sand/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/19/bbfc-seriously-thq-is-publishing-50-cent-blood-on-the-sand/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/19/bbfc-seriously-thq-is-publishing-50-cent-blood-on-the-sand/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Last week, Australia's Office of Film and Literature Classification breathed new life into a rumor that 50 Cent: Blood on the Sand, which many had believed to be a casualty in the Activision-Vivendi merger, had found a new publisher in THQ -- info made public when the OFLC stamped the game with an MA 15+ rating. A few days ago, the rumor seemed to become concrete -- the British Board of Film Classification has assigned Fiddy an "18" rating, also attributing the game to THQ.

While it now seems like incontrovertible fact that Blood on the Sand is still quite alive and well, THQ recently told British gaming news site MCV that they could not comment on "the rumour" -- either a testament to THQ's bizarre hype-building practices, or to the unfathomable excellence of the resurrected game.

JoystiqBBFC: Seriously, THQ is publishing 50 Cent: Blood on the Sand originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 19 Oct 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>50-Cent50-cent-blood-on-the-sand50-Cent-BotSbbfcMicrosoftoflcPS3Swordfish-StudiosTHQXbox-360Sun, 19 Oct 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Manhunt 2 gets UK release date]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/05/manhunt-2-gets-uk-release-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/05/manhunt-2-gets-uk-release-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/05/manhunt-2-gets-uk-release-date/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Readers currently residing in the United Kingdom -- your wait is over. At long last, you'll be able to experience one of 2007's best selling, most critically acclaimed titles -- Rockstar's controversial thriller, Manhunt 2. After being turned down by the British Board of Film Classification for its "unremitting bleakness and callousness of tone," a reworked, SFEurope version of the game will be launched in the UK for the Wii, PS2 and PSP on October 31. We know, we can barely contain our excitement either.

Sure, it may lack a few of the more grisly elements included in the inappropriate North American version, but if your hands are shaking with anticipation as you read this report -- as we're sure they are -- we imagine you'll be able to overlook a few omitted acts of power drill-related violence.

JoystiqManhunt 2 gets UK release date originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 05 Oct 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbfcmanhugmanhunt-2PS2PSPrelease-daterockstarukWiiSun, 05 Oct 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Manhunt 2's extra-scary, extra-late UK date]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/03/manhunt-2s-extra-scary-extra-late-uk-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/03/manhunt-2s-extra-scary-extra-late-uk-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/03/manhunt-2s-extra-scary-extra-late-uk-date/#commentsFiled under: ,

Rockstar has taken a long-form approach to scaring people with Manhunt 2. They've waited very quietly, very still, until everyone in the UK forgot that it was there, and then they JUMPED OUT AND ANNOUNCED A RELEASE DATE! "BOO! Manhunt 2 is coming out on October 31!"

This version of Manhunt 2 is different from the one the US got, having been "heavily reworked" (as IGN describes it) in a desperate bid for BBFC approval. They got the right to release the game in December, but by then Halloween had already passed, and what's the point of releasing a horror game on any other date?

JoystiqManhunt 2's extra-scary, extra-late UK date originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Oct 2008 20:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbfccensorshiphorrorlolmanhunt-2manhunt2rockstarFri, 03 Oct 2008 20:05:00 EST<![CDATA[So, what's on the Gears 2 bonus disc?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/27/so-whats-on-the-gears-2-bonus-disc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/27/so-whats-on-the-gears-2-bonus-disc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/27/so-whats-on-the-gears-2-bonus-disc/#commentsFiled under: ,


When the BBFC isn't busy keeping cool, violent games away from kids with totally square parents, they like to leak out the occasional news tidbit, just so all the game journalists think they're "hip." It's actually a little sad, but it's hard to argue with the benefits, like learning the content on the Gears of War 2 bonus disc that comes with the Limited Edition of the game.

Now, because there are some of you who may want to go into the experience completely pure, we've put the list after the break. But the awesome rebels among you should waste no time in clicking below.

Continue reading So, what's on the Gears 2 bonus disc?

JoystiqSo, what's on the Gears 2 bonus disc? originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Aug 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbfcepicgears-of-war-2limited-editionmicrosoftXbox-360Wed, 27 Aug 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The BBFC seeks to classify online interaction]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/30/the-bbfc-seeks-to-classify-online-interaction/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/30/the-bbfc-seeks-to-classify-online-interaction/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/30/the-bbfc-seeks-to-classify-online-interaction/#commentsFiled under: ,


On Thursday, British government officials are proposing many of the regulations asked for in the Byron Review, which will also expand the roll of the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC). Much of this is old ground, as sniping has gone on back and forth for months between BBFC and PEGI supporters about which system is better.

The part we're a little stuck on is where the Telegraph reports the new proposals seek to classify online interaction. The standards will be overseen by the new UK Council for Child Internet Safety, to be established later this year, and the online classification seeks to set a "single set of standards and good practice for managing the risks of online gaming." How anybody can look into the abyss of trying to classify online interaction and not see the darkness staring back at them astounds us.

[Via GamePolitics]

JoystiqThe BBFC seeks to classify online interaction originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Jul 2008 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbfcbritainpegitelegraphukWed, 30 Jul 2008 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[BBFC defends against recent publisher claims]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/30/bbfc-defends-against-recent-publisher-claims/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/30/bbfc-defends-against-recent-publisher-claims/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/30/bbfc-defends-against-recent-publisher-claims/#commentsFiled under: ,


The British Board of Film Classification's director, David Cooke, defended the organization's cost and efficiency today following recent remarks by publishers. Gamespot reports Cooke claims that the BBFC has an average turnaround of eight days in rating games and that its classifications are already cheaper than the industry-backed PEGI system.

Cooke goes on to repeat that the BBFC is fully capable of handling the extra workload required if the Byron Review regulations are implemented. He believes the games industry has nothing to fear from the BBFC's "more robust" and "fully independent" decisions.

Continue reading BBFC defends against recent publisher claims

JoystiqBBFC defends against recent publisher claims originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Jun 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbfcenglandpegiukMon, 30 Jun 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA: Byron regulations may delay games for UK]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/25/ea-byron-regulations-may-delay-games-for-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/25/ea-byron-regulations-may-delay-games-for-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/25/ea-byron-regulations-may-delay-games-for-uk/#commentsFiled under: ,


Electronic Arts' UK general manager, Keith Ramsdale, tells GI.biz that the proposed game rating alterations asked for in the Byron Review will delay game releases in the country. Ramsdale believes the changes are an "unnecessary layer of administration" to the process. The main change requested in the Byron Review is that any game above a 12+ certification would need to be reviewed by the BBFC; currently the organization only takes on games flagged to have sex, violence or criminal activity.

Ramsdale asks that the government poll consumers on the matter. Meanwhile, publishers continue to back the continent-covering PEGI system. As it has stated before, the BBFC is financially compensated by publishers for its work, and so doesn't expect to encounter problems when hiring more staff to keep up with a greater influx of games. So, not only will the group hire more people to keep up with the work load, but the new rules would also be a cash boom for the organization.

JoystiqEA: Byron regulations may delay games for UK originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Jun 2008 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbfcbyronbyron-reportdelaypegiWed, 25 Jun 2008 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Manhunt 2 in the UK: Rockstar knows nothing about it]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/manhunt-2-in-the-uk-rockstar-knows-nothing-about-it/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/manhunt-2-in-the-uk-rockstar-knows-nothing-about-it/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/manhunt-2-in-the-uk-rockstar-knows-nothing-about-it/#commentsFiled under:


A lengthy, to-and-fro legal battle between the BBFC and Rockstar prevented Manhunt 2 from being released in the UK, with the BBFC eventually giving up and granting the game an "18" certificate in March. Having won its right to lop limbs clean off be released in Britain, it was no surprise that the title appeared in Nintendo's latest European release schedule this morning.

But wait, for there's another twist to this twistiest of sagas! A Rockstar spokesperson contacted Eurogamer earlier today to reveal that it "has no confirmed release date set for Manhunt 2 in Europe." Ho boy. If any Europeans out there are beginning to feel particularly indifferent about Manhunt 2 at this stage, we can't say we blame you.

JoystiqManhunt 2 in the UK: Rockstar knows nothing about it originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Jun 2008 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbfccensorcensorshipeuropemanhuntmanhunt-2rockstarukTue, 24 Jun 2008 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ESRB to curb early game leaks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/esrb-to-curb-early-game-leaks/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/esrb-to-curb-early-game-leaks/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/esrb-to-curb-early-game-leaks/#commentsFiled under: ,

Here are a few of the recent games that were announced via early ratings by the ESRB: Castlevania: Order of Ecclesia, The Last Guy and Earthbound for Wii. A change in the ESRB's submission form will likely plug up those leaks, according to a memo leaked to Next-Gen. When publishers submit their game for rating, they now have the option to choose a date when the title is eligible to be uploaded to the ESRB's website. If left blank, the game will be eligible for display 30 days after it has been rated.

The ratings board hopes that publishers don't overuse the new option. Said the memo, "The ESRB system will not work for consumers if publishers arbitrarily select dates bearing no reasonable relationship to consumer interest in the product." Our sights now turn to Australia's OFLC, Germany's USK and Britains's BBFC for early game leaks.

JoystiqESRB to curb early game leaks originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Jun 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbfcesrbesrb-ratingleaksoflcuskFri, 20 Jun 2008 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[BBFC rating confirms Alone in the Dark's spookiness]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/07/bbfc-rating-confirms-alone-in-the-darks-spookiness/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/07/bbfc-rating-confirms-alone-in-the-darks-spookiness/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/07/bbfc-rating-confirms-alone-in-the-darks-spookiness/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


The British Board of Film Classification has posted details on the '15' rating pegged on Atari's upcoming survival-horror shriekfest, Alone in the Dark. The extended classification information on the BBFC website notes the game's "frequent use of strong language," but cuts it some some slack since, unlike Uwe Boll's ill-fated film adaptation, it "does not dwell on the infliction of pain or injury." The text reminds us that while there's "plenty of violence," it's all "mitigated by the fantasy context." Thank goodness!

Aside from the aggressive use of "guns, posts, spades, flamethrowers and other items," the BBFC also warns that we'd best watch out for "moments of horror, with some of the supernatural beasts that attack the protagonist arriving in fairly unexpected - and shocking - fashion." So ... zombies wearing ponchos, then.

Gallery: Alone in the Dark (2008)

JoystiqBBFC rating confirms Alone in the Dark's spookiness originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 May 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Alone-in-the-DarkAtariBBFCPCPS2PS3Survival-HorrorWiiXbox-360Wed, 07 May 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BBFC defends against PEGI supporters]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/01/bbfc-defends-against-pegi-supporters/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/01/bbfc-defends-against-pegi-supporters/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/01/bbfc-defends-against-pegi-supporters/#commentsFiled under: ,


The British Board of Film Classification is playing defense after accusations it won't be able to keep up with the tide of video games in the future. The BBFC's reaction came after a hearing where industry figures argued the self-regulated PEGI ratings were the best system.

Sue Clark, a representative for the BBFC, told GI.biz that the BBFC can cope with the work load and that the organization is entirely funded by the fees it charges to classify work. Therefore, the more work it needs to review, the more money comes in, and the more staff it can hire. She says the games industry doesn't know how the BBFC works, so they shouldn't talk. Whatever, let the BBFC stay, that way we get early warning about "implied child rape" and interstellar lesbianism in games.

JoystiqBBFC defends against PEGI supporters originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 May 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbfcpegiratingsself-regulationThu, 01 May 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[BBFC briefly noted 'suicide' and 'implied child rape' in MGS4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/23/bbfc-briefly-noted-suicide-and-implied-child-rape-in-mgs4/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/23/bbfc-briefly-noted-suicide-and-implied-child-rape-in-mgs4/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/23/bbfc-briefly-noted-suicide-and-implied-child-rape-in-mgs4/#commentsFiled under:

While you won't find any mention of it in the current rating page, the eagle-eyed spies over at Eurogamer noticed an eye-opening description of "references to suicide and an implied child rape" in a summary of Metal Gear Solid 4 briefly posted on the BBFC site (this summary was likely the Extended Classification Information, which is not supposed to be posted more than 10 days before a game is released). Before you get excited, note that Kojima Productions' Ryan Payton told Kotaku that "there is no mention of rape in the game" and that the BBFC's confusion may have come from a mention of "child trauma."

Regardless of the specifics behind the disturbing description, the BBFC still granted the game a relatively tame 15 rating for violence that "may be strong but may not dwell on the infliction of pain or injury during gameplay." The fact that it's possible to "progress stealthily through the game, avoiding violent confrontations where possible" seemed to weigh heavily on the decision. Hey, you can do that in the 18-rated Grand Theft Auto games too! Well, OK, you can't really advance that way, but you could avoid violence by driving a cab all day.

JoystiqBBFC briefly noted 'suicide' and 'implied child rape' in MGS4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Apr 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adultBBFCcontroversyMetal-Gear-Solid-4-Guns-of-the-PatriotsMGS4PS3ratingWed, 23 Apr 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[ELSPA comments on UK's Byron Review]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/04/elspa-comments-on-byron-ratings-proposals/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/04/elspa-comments-on-byron-ratings-proposals/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/04/elspa-comments-on-byron-ratings-proposals/#commentsFiled under: ,


After the Daily Mail's startlingly incompetent take on Dr. Tanya Byron's recently published review of games and internet media in the UK, we're more than happy to see less dubious discourse emanating from the Entertainment and Leisure Publishers Association. Speaking to MCV, ELSPA director general Paul Jackson cited several concerns with the report, chief among them being its recommendation of two, potentially confusing ratings systems.

"The way the proposals currently stand, there will be a BBFC standard on packaged goods - the number of which will presumably get smaller as gaming goes more online - and there will be the PEGI standard online when you're downloading," said Jackson. "We think it will be clearer if there was one standard." Jackson suggested that the report needed to be more "future-proof" and more considerate of the growing number of games being sold online. "It's incredibly important that we protect children and to do that we need to future-proof this process, but it's not quite there yet."

Also not quite there yet is the director general's belief that the industry alone should foot the bill for a consumer ratings education campaign. "I want to make it completely clear that a public marketing programme has been key all along in the educational process," he said. "We'll be talking to the Government about who pays for what. We're very keen to play our part, but all of the stakeholders needs to step up to the plate."

JoystiqELSPA comments on UK's Byron Review originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Apr 2008 07:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BBFCByronELSPAPEGIUKFri, 04 Apr 2008 07:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Grand Theft Auto IV gets 18 certificate from BBFC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/01/grand-theft-auto-iv-gets-18-certificate-from-bbfc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/01/grand-theft-auto-iv-gets-18-certificate-from-bbfc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/01/grand-theft-auto-iv-gets-18-certificate-from-bbfc/#commentsFiled under:

This bit of news is going to have an extra special meaning for all you Rockstar fans in Britain. After the whole debacle with the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) versus Manhunt 2, many of you may have worried about history repeating itself -- this time with the upcoming and equally controversial Grand Theft Auto IV. However, your worries should stop here for the BBFC has already passed Grand Theft Auto IV with an 18 certificate and with "no cuts made."

This is excellent news for all those gamers in the UK looking forward to picking up GTAIV this coming April 29. As it stands, there shouldn't be any other snags barring the game from its expected release date.

[Thanks enfo! Via MCV]

JoystiqGrand Theft Auto IV gets 18 certificate from BBFC originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Apr 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbfcgrand-theft-autogrand-theft-auto-4grand-theft-auto-ivgrandtheftautograndtheftauto4grandtheftautoivgtagtaivrockstarTue, 01 Apr 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GTA IV cleared by BBFC, 'no cuts made']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/01/gta-iv-cleared-by-bbfc-no-cuts-made/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/01/gta-iv-cleared-by-bbfc-no-cuts-made/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/01/gta-iv-cleared-by-bbfc-no-cuts-made/#commentsFiled under: ,

gta iv
The BBFC has launched its Grand Theft Auto IV rating page, clearing the game for release with an 18-rating for strong violence, very strong language, sex and drug references. "This work was passed with no cuts made," reads a bold-red statement on the page. The review board based its classification on nearly five and a half hours of gameplay footage and just about eight minutes of cut scenes.

Additionally, the BBFC published an expanded review of the game, which was later removed, but not before Eurogamer captured the details of GTA IV's most naughty bits. Prostitutes return with a few upgrades, now offering "three different levels of service" all happily ending with la petite mort -- or your money back. Players can also keep it legal (and in their pants) by visiting lap dance clubs. "While the game contains sexualised dancing and the portrayal of sex, there is no sexualised nudity," concludes the BBFC in true British syntax.

With the sex toned down, the ratings board declared 'violence' to be the game's "central theme" ('gritty immigrant drama' was just the runner-up, apparently). The review confirmed the inclusion of [SPOILER ALERT!] weapons, like machine guns, Molotov cocktails, a serrated knife and a rocket propelled grenade launcher -- oh, and a "stand up comedy routine" (not a weapon, or necessarily violent -- just foul-mouthed). "Injuries and death are shown with blood including blood projected onto nearby walls, windscreens and the camera lens. The character is able to attack and kill any other character in the game, including 'innocent' non player characters, although this carries a strong risk of being pursued by the police providing a negative consequence for such action." Negative? Have we been playing GTA wrong all along?

Update: The BBFC will repost its expanded review on April 19, according to Eurogamer. "We have a policy of not putting up the Extended Classification Information for a work more than 10 days before the work is released. Once we realised that GTA IV was due for publication on 29 April we took the ECI down," explained the BBFC.

JoystiqGTA IV cleared by BBFC, 'no cuts made' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Apr 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbfcbreakingnewsgrand-theft-auto-ivgtaivPS3rockstarXbox-360Tue, 01 Apr 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dr. Tanya Byron explains her report findings, stance on games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/28/dr-tanya-byron-explains-her-report-findings-stance-on-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/28/dr-tanya-byron-explains-her-report-findings-stance-on-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/28/dr-tanya-byron-explains-her-report-findings-stance-on-games/#commentsFiled under:

Following her report (which follows all of the Manhunt 2 ruckus), UK psychologist Dr. Tanya Byron sat down to discuss some things with Next-Gen. While we don't know much about her, what with us living across the pond and all, she does come off as kind of grounded and level-headed about all of this.

It seems that she's very much for adult content in games, just that the adult content in question should only be accessible by, you know, adults. "There's a huge moral debate around content in videogames," she says, "I'm very clear, that wasn't the remit of my review to pass judgment on that and I do believe that content for adults is content for adults. It should be rated that way."

She goes on further to add: "I can understand that gamers fear that there will be a 'you can't play these games anymore.' I've not said that, I'd never say that, and certainly if I heard people beginning to use my review to try and imply that I will be very quick to say that that was not and will not be a recommendation of mine."

While we're not resident of the UK, we're incredibly interested in where this is all going. Ratings improvements can be made worldwide, we're sure, and we'd like to see a world where it doesn't take an incredibly-long time to release a game because a bunch of uninformed people are too busy arguing about how it's going to train your kid to kill.

JoystiqDr. Tanya Byron explains her report findings, stance on games originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 28 Mar 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbfcbyronmanhunt2pegiratingsukFri, 28 Mar 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Byron calls for more BBFC action, ratings system overhaul]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/27/byron-calls-for-more-bbfc-action-ratings-system-overhaul/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/27/byron-calls-for-more-bbfc-action-ratings-system-overhaul/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/27/byron-calls-for-more-bbfc-action-ratings-system-overhaul/#commentsFiled under:

As you all probably know, following the whole Manhunt 2 thing, noted psychologist in the country Dr. Tanya Byron was knee-deep in an investigation into the effects of games and internet media on children in the UK. Her verdict? The BBFC should have a bigger role in rating games (right now, they only intervene on games flagged with violent, sexual and criminal content).

Her solution involves a new 12+ classification, as well as the BBFC handling just about all duties involving rating games. But, as anticipated, she's also endorsed the PEGI system, as well. She hopes that the PEGI ratings can go on the back of the game's box, with the BBFC classification being displayed on the front.

This is all just the tip of the iceberg, however. Her report has lots more interesting information, so for the rest, head on over to Game Politics.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqByron calls for more BBFC action, ratings system overhaul originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 Mar 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbfcbyronmanhunt2pegirockstarukThu, 27 Mar 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[UK's Byron Review recommends expanded game ratings system]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/27/uk-byron-review-recommends-expanded-games-ratings/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/27/uk-byron-review-recommends-expanded-games-ratings/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/27/uk-byron-review-recommends-expanded-games-ratings/#commentsFiled under: ,


A report concerning the effects of games and internet media on children, led by one Dr. Tanya Byron, was released in the UK today. Among its recommendations are a change to the UK's video game ratings system, which would see the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) assuming a more prominent role in game releases, rating more titles and establishing a new 12+ classification. Currently, the BBFC only examines games flagged for violent, sexual and criminal content -- adopting the lower age limit would undoubtedly result in a dramatic increase in workload.

Though Byron hopes that more film-like ratings will ease confusion among befuddled parents, the report also suggests the incorporation of Europe's PEGI rating system, with its notice appearing on the back of a game's box and the BBFC's on the front. Any retailer ignoring these ratings and selling games to a child under the printed age limit will also find itself on the wrong side of the law, as the report would deem such an act illegal.

You can read a thorough layout of the report over at Game Politics.

JoystiqUK's Byron Review recommends expanded game ratings system originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 Mar 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BBFCBreakingNewsByronPEGIUKThu, 27 Mar 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[British MP continues fight against Manhunt 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/british-mp-continues-fight-against-manhunt-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/british-mp-continues-fight-against-manhunt-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/british-mp-continues-fight-against-manhunt-2/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

You'd think the BBFC's official unbanning of an edited version of Manhunt 2 would officially end the battle over the game's release. You'd be wrong though, as Kent Online reports that Kent MP Julian Brazier is working to introduce a "public appeals process" to overturn BBFC decisions, like the one that paved the way for Manhunt 2's release.

Brazier's Private Members Bill to reform the BBFC was discussed and eventually stopped in Parliament late last month, but that hasn't stopped Brazier from trying to revive its political chances. Brazier insists that the eventual decision to release Manhunt 2 "shows once again that the BBFC and its appeals system do not meet the concerns of the public" and that "the public wants a significant tightening up in this vital area." Earlier this month, Brazier accompanied Gordon Brown in a meeting with Giselle Pakeerah, a mother who believes the original Manhunt contributed to her son's murder.

JoystiqBritish MP continues fight against Manhunt 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Mar 2008 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BBFCbritainbritishcontroversykentlawlegalmanhunt 2Manhunt2MPparliamentPS2rockstarWiiThu, 20 Mar 2008 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Many call for BBFC to step aside from games following Manhunt 2 ordeal]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/many-call-for-bbfc-to-step-aside-from-games-following-manhunt-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/many-call-for-bbfc-to-step-aside-from-games-following-manhunt-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/many-call-for-bbfc-to-step-aside-from-games-following-manhunt-2/#commentsFiled under:


Many folks think the ratings board should discontinue its work with video games, as they voice concerns over the decision to allow Manhunt 2 to be sold in the country. They feel the games classification process in the UK has some major issues. Many are even expecting the report of Dr. Tanya Byron, one of the country's most popular psychologists, to support a different ratings institution when she releases it later this month.

Darren Waters, editor of BBC News' technology index, rips apart the BBFC, stating "The grudging nature of the BBFC's statement, that it now has "no alternative" but to grant the title a certificate, coupled with the fact the body went to the High Court, twice rejected the game itself and tried to overturn the original judgment of the VAC leaves the organization with its credibility bruised."

Others have come through to voice their concerns, as well. General consensus seems to be that the new classification system will fall squarely on the shoulders of PEGI (Pan European Game Information), another games classification system that is completely voluntary on the part of the game developers.


[Via Go Nintendo]

JoystiqMany call for BBFC to step aside from games following Manhunt 2 ordeal originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Mar 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbfcmanhuntmanhunt2pegirockstarukThu, 20 Mar 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Manhunt is back on in the UK]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/14/the-manhunt-is-back-on-in-the-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/14/the-manhunt-is-back-on-in-the-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/14/the-manhunt-is-back-on-in-the-uk/#commentsFiled under:


Well, for those of you in the UK who wanted to enjoy the murder sim latest game from Rockstar, your time will come. Even with all of the fuss about the game going down in the UK, the BBFC's decision to ban the game in the country has somehow been overturned by the VAC (Video Appeals Committee), who have decided to affix an age 18 certificate to the title (meaning you have to be that old to purchase it).

Although we've really heard nothing but bad things about Manhunt 2, surely some of you in the UK are happy to hear about this new state of affairs involving the game? Not like it matters, because thanks to the Freeloader, you could have just imported the game from North America.


[Thanks, Jon!]

JoystiqThe Manhunt is back on in the UK originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Mar 2008 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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