All Giz readers know that there are two major battles being waged between government and geeks across the country: the mandatory internet filter and an R18+ rating for video games. But how will one affect the other? Luke over at Kotaku contacted the minister to find out, and the good news is that it’s not all bad news for gamers…
Turns out that the Australian Department of Broadband Communication is monitoring the discussion on an R18+ classification for video games, and their “approach to filtering online games will be developed drawing on this consultation process”. Until a definitive decision’s been made, apparently games will be entirely excluded from the filter.
It’s a small measure of relief, but at least it’s news that veers on the side of common sense…
[Kotaku]
chris
Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 10:23 AMSo basically, if we are unsuccessful in getting an R18+ rating for games (which is probably what will happen as long as Atkinson remains), chances are that all game-related content that is rated higher than MA15+ will be filtered out? :(
Cav
Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 11:53 AMChris, I kinda have to disagree on your idea that the R18+ bid will not be a success. Once they filter thru all of submissions made by 12 year olds who shouldn’t be playing those games anyway, I think you will find valid arguments and points made by genuine members of both the Gaming and Non Gaming communities.
I am not too sure about these filters though, I feel it may damage poplular icons like Kotaku and Giz
matt
Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 10:50 AMthis IS the same guy who answered all the questions he couldn’t bs himself through over the filter with “this is just a trial to see what is possible” and then THE DAY it was done, without any further consultation IMMEDIATELY began the process of implementing it.
I’ll remain sceptical I think…