New game rating system proposed

We're getting an R18+ rating, but at what cost?

Australia is at last getting an R18+ rating for adult in content in games, the Australian Classification Board announced today. This is good news for gamers who want to see uncensored titles in their original format, but there are a number of caveats. 

Proof of age will be required to purchase these titles, says today's announcement, and shops selling games rated R18+ will be required to keep a register of who they sell these games to. "We want to ensure a safe use of this possibly questionable content, and we believe tracking gamers is the best way to be about it," said a spokesperson when Atomic contacted the ACB about the move. "The last thing we want to see is older people buying material to pass on to younger gamers, and this system makes sure any transgressions of the new code can be dealt with quickly."

We also asked if the recent hacking of the ACB site had any impact on the decision. "Oh, not at all. We are above those kind of shenanigans," said the spokesperson. "The fact that our site remains down and we are being forced into major upgrades has nothing to do with the R18+ announcement. We're just happy to be able to work with gamers to give them what they deserve."

Other limitations on the sale of games with adult content will be that the games in question be packaged in non-conspicuous brown paper sleeves, and that they be racked seperately in stores. EB Games, in particular, is embracing the move, and will be setting up special 'adults only' lounges in their stores.

"We expect these areas to be very popular with older gamers looking for casual adult encounters. This is going to revolutionise the games industry," said an EB rep.