UNDER a new video game classification system announced yesterday by the Media Development Authority (MDA), adult Singaporeans may soon be able to buy previously banned games like Manhunt and Grand Theft Auto 3.
These games were banned in the past due to their explicit portrayal of mature themes.

The new system, which MDA said is the first of its kind in South-east Asia, will kick in on 28 Apr.

If distributors send the games to the MDA for approval, they may be slapped with an M18 (Mature 18) or 'Age Advisory' rating.

M18 games are those that contain realistic depictions of violence and nudity, as well as frequent use of strong coarse language.

Only those 18 years and above can buy the games. Retailers are expected to conduct an age check if they suspect the buyer to be underaged.

Age Advisory games contain moderate levels of violence, depiction of nudity and coarse language. It's suitable for those 16 years and above.

But retailers need not conduct age checks. The rating is to help consumers make informed choices.

The games will carry rating stickers resembling those on VCDs and DVDs.

Mr Ernest Khoo, assistant director of customer and licensing service at MDA, said games which threaten national interest, or those which glorify terrorism, will probably remain banned regardless of the new classification system.

Ms Jessica Tan, manager of the Comics Connections' games department, views the new system favourably.

She said: 'It's beneficial to retailers as banned games can now be brought in.

'Gamers now have a wider choice of games, which translates into more sales.

'Also, there will be fewer sales taking place 'under-the-table' because ratings are more obvious with the stickers.'

EXTRA COST

However, Mr Albert Choo from Kelsoft Marketing disagreed.

He pointed out the extra costs retailers may have to absorb - the classification fee is $50, and the rating stickers to be put on the games covers cost 80 cents each.

'These things take time and effort on the part of retailers, so I wouldn't say the new system is very beneficial to us,' he said.

The New Paper reported yesterday that, in an undercover experiment, six in seven stores sold M18 VCDs to an underaged student.

Could this lack of self-regulation by video retailers be a cause for worry?

Ms Amy Chua, chairman of the Board of Film Censors, said the MDA will first take an advisory approach.

This means retailers who sell M18 games to underaged teens would not be punished until the licensing framework is completed in six months.

In the meantime, MDA will conduct ground checks and get public feedback on ratings.

Mr Choo appreciates the six months' grace.

'It's a good gesture on MDA's part. We will need time to educate our staff, especially since staff turnover is quite high,' he said.

This classification system will be reviewed after six months.