Controversial Manhunt 2

Manhunt 2, a video game produced by Rockstar set to be released this Halloween, has stirred up a lot of controversy. Currently in the video game market there are plenty of violent games, however, none have seemed to cause this much commotion. As critics of the video game have mentioned there is no difference in the amount of blood or violence in Manhunt 2 then other video games that are currently on the shelves. The main problem with this violent game is that it is being produced in a Wi version.

For those of you who don't know, Nintendo Wi is an interactive video game system that is played with a control stick. To play the game the player must simulate the action using the control stick.The problem with Manhunt 2 being released in a Wi version, is that children who purchase this video game will be simulating stabbing people to win this game.

Along with simulating stabbing others, the games original rating of Adult only was lowered to Mature. This has sparked a lot of debate considering advocacy groups feel that children should not be permitted to purchase this game. Although the video game industry claims to want to keep their product out the hands of children, they will not allow legislation to control who purchases what video games. On top of their lack of commitment, they act in ways such as lowering the rating of Manhunt 2 that seem to contradict their statements.

Despite no specific link between violent games and the behavior of children, studies have shown that children who are exposed to violent games tend to be more aggressive. Because of no direct links between video games and violence, the industry does not feel pressure to regulate the retail of their games.

Since there is no reason for the video game industry to self-regulate and hold themselves to a certain standard to protect children, parents must regulate their children. Parents should be aware of the video games their children purchase and research each game to see if it is suitable for their child. In most cases parents have the final purchase decision, with the price of video games being so high, and the parents must be able to chose games that are fitting for their child's age groups.

Inspiration for this post provided by Manhunt 2 topic of the night on news media