IGDA Condemns Video Game Censorship

For Immediate Release

Contact: Joshua Caulfield

Tel: 856-423-2990

Email: news@igda.org

PDF Version

MOUNT ROYAL, NJ - April 30, 2010 - The International Game Developer's Association (IGDA) asserts that video games are a form of expression whether they're intended for entertainment, simulation or training. Like books, film, and television, games are capable of conveying many messages and many points of view.

Limiting forms of expression in video games limits the expression of game creators, which violates their constitutional rights to free speech in the United States and abroad as specified by Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights from the United Nations.

In the specific case of the state of California's Schwarzenegger v. Video Software Dealers Association, 08-1448, which is coming before the US Supreme Court this fall, the IGDA's position is that limiting the sale of video games based on violence is oppressive censorship, singling out one form of expression based only on popular myth and biased research.

The IGDA is committed to the safety of children and supports fair and objective research on the effects of video games on the psychology of children and adults alike, as exemplified by the $1.5 million federally funded Harvard Medical study headed by Drs. Kutner & Olsen and provided to the public in Grand Theft Childhood: The Surprising Truth About Violent Video Games and What Parents Can Do.  The IGDA stands behind informing parents about their media decisions and allowing them, rather than governmental bodies, to decide for their children.

Violence is conveyed in explicit ways on television, in print media, via the Internet, and in film. All of these platforms constitute speech protected by the first amendment of the United States constitution. The IGDA condemns the censorship of expressive media in all forms, but especially when marketed for political gain by legislators.

While video games are commonly associated with violence in the non-gaming public, in reality only a minority of video games include graphic violence, and the industry has taken a leading role in providing information and awareness to consumers about the level of violence in any individual game. The IGDA is fully committed to disclosure and an informed public, and supports the video game rating system, reviews of games prior to their release, and content warnings on packaging.

"Video games are at the heart of technical and artistic innovation," said IGDA Chair Gordon Bellamy.  "Singling out games from other media is not only unconstitutional, according to courts throughout the country, but it also stigmatizes a leading industry in our economy that's embraced by millions in all walks of life."

Resources:

1. Rhodes, Richard. "The Media Violence Myth." http://www.abffe.com/myth1.htm
2. Kutner, Lawrence. & Olson, Cheryl K. 2008 Grand theft childhood : the surprising truth about violent video games and what parents can do.
3. Jenkins, Henry. "Reality Bytes: Eight Myths about Video Games Debunked". PBS.org. http://www.pbs.org/kcts/videogamerevolution/impact/myths.html

About the International Game Developers Association

In its 15th year, the International Game Developers Association is the largest non-profit membership organization serving individuals who create video games. The IGDA is committed to advancing the careers and enhancing the lives of game developers by connecting members with their peers, promoting professional development, and advocating on issues that affect the developer community. For more information on the IGDA, please visit www.igda.org.