Wow...really Australia? State of Decay has become the second video game to be banned (Saints Row IV being the first) in Australia by the Australian Classification Board. According to executive producer Jeff Strain, State of Decay has been "refused classification".

"I have bad news to share," writes Strain. "State of Decay has been refused classification by the Australian Classification Board (ACB). We've run afoul of certain prohibitions regarding the depiction of drug use. We're working with Microsoft to come up with options, including changing names of certain medications in the game to comply with ratings requirements. Whatever our path forward, it's going to take a bit."

"I know this is frustrating – believe me, we're frustrated too – but each country has the right (to) set its own rules about content, and it's our responsibility to comply with them. Rest assured we'll do everything we can to find a way to get the game into your hands. Stay tuned."

According to the Classification Board's report, State of decay was banned because it contains the option of self-administered drugs throughout, in order to restore player's health or boost their stamina.

So does this mean Mario should be banned because mushrooms make him big? And what about GTA? This doesn't really make sense. Come on! The game is clearly for a mature audience, and if kids get their hands on it, blame the parents. Don't punish everyone else.

Earlier, Saints Row IV was banned in Australia as well, due to implied sexual violence and drug use.

What do you guys think about this?

Source via  News.com.au

Posted by George K

Update: State of Decay has been unbanned with an 18+ rating! Check out the story here.