BBFC Finds no Evidence Linking Games and Violence

The British Board of Film Classification has accepted that there has been no evidence linking anti-social behavior and videogame violence; but says further study is required to completely rule out the possibility.

Speaking at the appeal hearing yesterday Andrew Caldecott, representing the BBFC, stated, “The board’s position is that there is insufficient evidence to prove, as a fact, there is a causal connection between violent games and behavioural harm… It’s a perfectly fair point, and one which we accept, but it’s not by any means a complete answer to the question the [Video Appeals Committee] has to decide.”

However Caldecott still supports the BBFC’s decision on Manhunt 2. He also argues that videogames can’t be treated as films because of the difference of perspective involved.

“Film is a different medium; it is simply is a different experience. There are ways in which it is perhaps more involving, because you are dealing with absolute reality, with real people, in film.

“On the other hand, many people watch horror films to some extent from the point of view of the victim, or the point of view of what’s going to happen – not with this very distinctive point of view of being the person who’s wielding the weapon, and is rewarded for killing in the bloodiest way possible.”

Caldecott also submits that videogame  differ in the technology they use and are harder to keep away from minors than are violent films.

“A videogame is inherently less likely to be strictly supervised, and that is supported by research,” he said, adding that violent films are usually watched late at night.

“You don’t come home from work, have your tea and watch Saw 3. Games are played at all times of the day when children are about in the house.”

Turning to Manhunt 2 specifically, Caldecott focused on the nature of the game’s violent content. “In this particular game, the victims are people. They are not aliens or griffins or Daleks…”

At least we know he’s a Dr. Who fan away.

Interested gamers can read more pertinent excerpts from the hearing on GamesIndustry.biz.