Great news gamers: Australia will finally introduce the R18+ Classification Rating for video games which means adult-aged gaming aficionados can now play Grand Theft Auto III and The Getaway without fear of having the sexy parts and ultra violence edited out – or alternately not getting a go at all after being banned by the classification board.
Until today’s new law Australia had MA15+ as the highest level classification, a decidedly ageist ceiling rating that completely disregarded the huge population of virgins, pot heads and geeks over the age of 18 who enjoy gaming just as much as youths do.
Minister for Home Affairs Jason Clare said of the triumph, “These are important reforms over 10 years in the making. The R18+ category will inform consumers, parents and retailers about which games are not suitable for minors to play, and will prevent minors from purchasing unsuitable material. The reforms also mean that adults are able to choose what games they play within the bounds of the law.”
The new classification scheme is effective as of 1 January 2013 which gives you plenty of time to develop the FPS-porn hybrid you’ve always dreamed of.
Via PR Wire.
Main image from Grand Theft Auto III
