The National Institute on Media and the Family is unveiling its 13th annual video game report listing the "10 most offensive, violent, sex-filled video games inappropriate for kids," reports AP.
It's not trying to drum up business, though that might be a side-effect. Its purpose is to warn parents that these games are unsuitable for children -- just in case they don't notice they are M-rated in the US, being intended for those aged 17 and over.
The "top games" include Gears of War 2, Far Cry 2, and Silent Hill: Homecoming.
How you stop kids playing, say, Gears of War is another matter. They're probably going to play it at a friend's house, because the friend's big brother plays it all the time, except when he's out. But that's no reason for mum to pick up a copy for the kid's stocking, even if it's on Santa's list.
The AP story says:
A video game guide for parents, including tips on using the parental controls on game consoles, is highlighted in the new report, which will be available on the group's Web site.
The NIMF is perfectly well aware that video gaming "is now an undeniably mainstream medium and often a catalyst for social activity involving people of all ages," and that "increasingly, the big industry players are targeting parents and families as an important market for their products and services. Despite the controversial M-rated games (for Mature) still receiving much of the hype and the headlines, the vast majority of game titles have family-friendly ratings."
That's what it says in the 2008 Video Game Report Card, which you can also download as a PDF file.
