AU Ratings: MA15+ Games Could Be Reclassified After R18+ Introduction
At least 50 titles could be reassessed.
Australia is finally coming close to having a modern games rating system, with the introduction of the R18+ classification in January 2013. But, on its arrival, around 50 MA15+ games could potentially be reassessed to consider whether it should be bumped up to the new category.
MP Greg Donnelly raised the point during a parliamentary discussion on the incoming changes to the ratings list. "Following the introduction of the new framework on 1 January 2013 steps will be taken to look at what are colloquially referred to as the 50 video and computer games – at least 50 – that it is believed in one way or another have been shoe-horned into the MA15+ category and should now be rated at the higher classification."
Sadly, the reclassification business doesn't quite work the other way around. Speaking with Kotaku, the Attorney-General's department revealed that it will not be reassessing games that have previously been Refused Classification. Not unless the Classification Board wants to do so, or if requested by the Commonwealth or state.
Bit of a bummer, that. But still - hopefully this will see the end of future games getting sent to the dreaded ban bin.
MP Greg Donnelly raised the point during a parliamentary discussion on the incoming changes to the ratings list. "Following the introduction of the new framework on 1 January 2013 steps will be taken to look at what are colloquially referred to as the 50 video and computer games – at least 50 – that it is believed in one way or another have been shoe-horned into the MA15+ category and should now be rated at the higher classification."
Sadly, the reclassification business doesn't quite work the other way around. Speaking with Kotaku, the Attorney-General's department revealed that it will not be reassessing games that have previously been Refused Classification. Not unless the Classification Board wants to do so, or if requested by the Commonwealth or state.
Bit of a bummer, that. But still - hopefully this will see the end of future games getting sent to the dreaded ban bin.
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