GTA IV edited for Australia
Rockstar has produced an edited version of Grand Theft Auto IV for Australia in order to obtain an MA15+ rating.
The Office of Film and Literature Classification awarded the game an MA15+ rating on December 11 last year, advising consumers that the game contains "strong violence, strong coarse language, drug and sexual references".
A Rockstar spokesperson confirmed to Screen Play yesterday that the company had produced a special version of GTA IV to comply with the Australian classification system, which does not currently contain an R18+ rating, but declined to reveal what material had been cut.
The game has been rated R18+ by the British Board of Film Classification, New Zealand's OFLC and the German Unterhaltungssoftware Selbstkontrolle. It has been rated M17+ by the Entertainment Software Rating board in North America.
The Grand Theft Auto series has a chequered past with the OFLC in Australia.
In 2001, thousands of copies of GTA III were sold before the game was rated and refused classification because players could pick-up prostitutes. An edited version was later released.
2002's Gran Theft Auto: Vice City was also edited for Australian audiences.
In 2005, Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas has its original MA15+ rating overturned and the game pulled from retail shelves after it was revealed game discs contained a hidden "Hot Coffee" sex mini-game. An edited version rated MA15+ was soon back on sale.
Grand Theft Auto IV is released in Australia on April 29.
Screen Play will devote all of next week's blogs to the game after enjoying hands-on with the blockbuster this week.
LATEST COMMENTS
WHAT THE FREAKING ^&%&^$?!?
We were promised that it *wasn't* going to be a censored version!
That's it, I'm cancelling my pre-order and buying it from overseas instead.
I just can't believe this
- Posted by: Pete on April 4, 2008 9:59 AM
Any idea what was taken out?
- Posted by: Blahzy on April 4, 2008 10:17 AM
@%$*ing &%@$'s %$#&!!!!
How can they do that.
Lousy OFLC, this is why we need an R18+. I've been dying to play this game in all it's glory and now i have to hear that we're getting a tamed down version. Now i'm depressed. They wanted to curb violence and drug use... Right now i feel like getting trashed and stabbing someone. I want unedited GTA IV
- Posted by: SexyNinjaMonkey on April 4, 2008 10:21 AM
I am so, SO sick of this. Australia is completely behind the times.
JB Hifi won't be getting my money for this, I'll be importing it.
- Posted by: Matthew on April 4, 2008 10:35 AM
So, as with previous versions, there's no reason to buy locally?
If I'm going to buy a game, I want the full game. Not some version watered down because we're too backwards/ignorant to accept the fact that people 18+ play games.
- Posted by: Adam on April 4, 2008 11:00 AM
What the hell? Is this some kind of late April fools joke? Just a short while ago Rockstar stated that the game was to be released uncut in Australia and furthermore that it would be be censored anywhere in the world!
http://www.myps3.com.au/NewsDetail.aspx?id=532
http://www.n4g.com/News-116511.aspx
If this is true than Rockstar are complete liars and I will be importing from the UK or New Zealand. Stuff this nanny-state.
- Posted by: Mike on April 4, 2008 11:03 AM
I am so glad to live in Australia
*shots self in head*
- Posted by: Andrew on April 4, 2008 11:11 AM
I'm thinking about buying an Xbox 360 from Play-Asia, but most likely it will be a NTSC-J model, which means ill have to buy all my games online. Has anybody had any problems with this method that i might not see until after i buy it?
Oh yeah, and a big 'stuff you' to the AG of SA.
- Posted by: Matt on April 4, 2008 11:25 AM
yes 'import' I was going to buy this game, now I have to get my hands on the uncut version somehow
- Posted by: fnord on April 4, 2008 11:38 AM
Great so a game that every other country has deemed only suitable for adults, is being released here as ma15+ and now kids can just go into a store and buy it or convince parents to buy it. If this game was R18+ they would need ID to buy it and parents would be less hesitant to get it for them.
Not having an R18+ rating only makes it easier for kids to get this adult intended content.
- Posted by: Sigh.. on April 4, 2008 11:43 AM
The Australian OFLC is getting rapidly out of touch. We have R18+ movies, and there doesn't seem to be a mass of affected children.
Why can't we have R18+ games?
In the end, just like porn, if someone wants it, a bit torrent tracker is just a click away.
The censorship doesn't help anyone & could easily hurt the companies producing the games.
- Posted by: Nathan on April 4, 2008 11:50 AM
Yes, we do need an R(18+) rating for games.
I'm supprised Rockstar Games is prepared to change the game for what internationally is probably quite a small market. Would have been easier for them to promote grey imports from other PAL countries.
- Posted by: ImaWestie on April 4, 2008 11:55 AM
So there you ...thousands of potential sales will go o/s because of this country's lack of commonsense in the 18+ rating of video games. I will be buying my version from playasia or from somewhere in the UK - I would rather keep my dollars here, but I just dont have the option.
- Posted by: Rob Goldsmith on April 4, 2008 11:56 AM
This SUCKS, and we have a right to know what is being censored in GTAIV. Jason should have pressed for an answer to this, especially since Rockstar earlier promised an uncut version.
And on an unrelated note, the ridiculous screening process you have in place effectively stifles discussion in this blog.
Mugabe-like, and demonstrates how management wants to cash in on blogs without realizing what makes them vibrant. Then again, this comment will probably never be accepted. Congrats.
- Posted by: Pete on April 4, 2008 12:05 PM
It makes me sad that a grown adult cannot simply walk in and buy a copy of the same game that is being sold in Europe and the US.
Instead we have a watered down version because the country cannot get its act together and realise that video games should be rated similar to movies.
It's funny because they want to cut out certain scenes in the game - yet happy for certain books to be sold without a rating.
Any 12 year old could walk out and buy a copy of American Psycho - which contains a lot worse scenes than any video game I have ever played.
- Posted by: Phelan on April 4, 2008 12:26 PM
"In 2001, thousands of copies of GTA III were sold before the game was rated and refused classification because players could pick-up prostitutes. An edited version was later released."
Thats not true, the game was on sale with OFLC consent for many months before it was pulled and edited due to a certain MP kicking up a reasonable political stink (won't someone think of the children, not in terms of health care or education mind you, just video games).
I'm glad the games been edited though, god forbid the 15+ market the game is rated for should see a pixelated nipple. Bless the nanny state we live in.
- Posted by: AJ on April 4, 2008 12:28 PM
Thanks for the heads-up, Jason - my pre-order's already cancelled.
Once we find out whether it's just cutting out prostitute use (the only real cut from 3 and VC) or whether it's something substantial I'll work out whether to get it on the 360 locally or on the PS3 through the US.
Nick.
- Posted by: Big Nik on April 4, 2008 12:37 PM
I am so sick and tired of the censorship crap surrounding games! What is the problem with making an R18+ games rating in this country!?
Instead i have to either put up with a version 'fit' for a 15 year old or 'modify' my hardware and purchase a foreign game to enjoy the full game experience.
The Office of Film and Literature Classification need to give their heads a shake, how many people do you think will purchase more expensive Australian software when we are given second rate censored games?
- Posted by: hater on April 4, 2008 12:44 PM
And they did it again... Again the OFLC treats all gamers like 15 year olds. I'm a 21 year old long time gamer, and at 21 I'm 7 years below the Australian average for a gamer! I'm fully aware that the issue of an R18+ rating is back in the news, although in my opinion it's long overdue. The aus game industry makes more money that the aus film industry, yet the game player is treated like a second class consumer compared to the film goer. Why? The arguement always goes "think of the children" well, I am, and if we had an R18+ rating we could just classify games as adult making them illegal to sell to minors and sending a clear message to parents. I really don't care if the OFLC becomes trigger happy with an R18+ rating and slaps it on any game with even a moderate amount of adult themes. I'd encourage them to do so. That would certainly protect the children more effectively than editing out some content out what is in any case a seriously violent game, placing an MA15+ rating on it, and letting parents keep the false idea that since it's "just a game" it's alright for their kids to play anything. San Andreas had a MA15+ rating, and I seriously doubt that parents who bought the game for their children knew you could solicite prostitutes, then shoot them or beat them to death to get your money back. That you could dress up like a gimp and beat people with a long pink ****. That you could just stand in the street and spend as much time as you wanted killing innocent bystanders, police, firemen, ambulance drivers, military personel and anyone else that decided to show up. And for some reason, a sex minigame caused a recall... Give me a break... For the record, I have my copy of GTAIV on PS3 pre-ordered, the $150 special edition, but this news makes me seriously consider importing...
- Posted by: KDB on April 4, 2008 1:14 PM
As a 24 year old I wish to play the game with it's full content. Looks like I'll be forced to pirate the game instead.
Another simple example of how Australias censorship system fails both our citizens and game companies/producers.
- Posted by: David Brumley on April 4, 2008 1:22 PM
"And on an unrelated note, the ridiculous screening process you have in place effectively stifles discussion in this blog."
Posted by: Pete on April 4, 2008 12:05 PM
Has anyone else noticed that comments made by accessing screenplay through SMH are segregated from comments made through TheAge.
Mugabe-like, and demonstrates how management wants to cash in on blogs without realizing what makes them vibrant. Then again, this comment will probably never be accepted. Congrats.
- Posted by: Blahzy on April 4, 2008 1:39 PM
very unfortunate, but moaning about it to the age isn't going to get you very far. pick up some weapons from somewhere, they're lying around all over, and pay a visit to your local MP. make yourself heard !
- Posted by: matthew on April 4, 2008 1:50 PM
Just cancelled my pre-order at JBHifi...
Oh well, this way I'll get it cheaper anyways. Ebayed from HK or playasia.
- Posted by: Pete on April 4, 2008 1:53 PM
And BTW, good work for breaking this news, Jason.
It's starting to be discussed all over the web, but it was revealed here first...
- Posted by: Pete on April 4, 2008 1:55 PM
I'll be ordering overseas too.
We should find who the distributor is and let them know that if they don't get some pressure going, they're going to make much much less on the biggest game of '08.
- Posted by: Steve on April 4, 2008 2:01 PM
http://www.gpstore.co.nz/Games/1542345.html - only $125 AUD for the special edition and remember PS3 games aren't region locked.
- Posted by: Nick on April 4, 2008 2:02 PM
Play-Asia just got another order.
- Posted by: Grr on April 4, 2008 2:16 PM
"Once we find out whether it's just cutting out prostitute use (the only real cut from 3 and VC) "
I'm pretty sure i used prozzies in VC, and i have the platinum copy.
On another note i dont think it is nudity that has been edited out because the getaway black Monday had heaps of nudity in it. Underbelly anyone? Its only MA and has semi hardcore sex scenes in it + every 4th word is fuck.
- Posted by: leighton on April 4, 2008 2:40 PM
Cool well I'll be cancelling my pre-order and getting this internationally then. Yay government! /sarcasm
- Posted by: Hoffy on April 4, 2008 2:46 PM
Almost as if video game manufacturers WANT us to buy our games from overseas at cheaper prices...
- Posted by: Owen "loopy" McRae on April 4, 2008 2:52 PM
Who really cares? I'm not canceling my pre-order and does it really make a difference?
The majority of good games are not R18+ and do not rely on R18+ content to be quality games.
Why does it matter so much to you guys if there's a little less vulgar content? I'm assuming it'd be sex related as games are rarely censored for violence or language.
- Posted by: anon on April 4, 2008 3:07 PM
So Rockstar announce proudly that the Australian version will be completely uncut and original. Then 3 weeks to launch, an announcement is made that in fact, the Aussie version will be edited.
I'm calling BS until this is confirmed. Unless an official listing of cut material and press release by Rockstar is produced, this can only be labelled BS...
Regardless whether it's true or not, this issue as pushed me to go with an import... With the PS3 version completely region free, Microsoft just lost the advantage it had with all the marketing money it threw at GTAIV.
*clap clap clap*
- Posted by: LeeE on April 4, 2008 3:08 PM
Big Nik: Just get it here. I bought my copy 10 minutes ago and cancelled my pre-order.
Is this 100% Jason?
- Posted by: Antony Maait on April 4, 2008 3:19 PM
It's disgusting that as a 32 year old gamer, I can access all manner of alcohol, legal drugs and alcohol, but can't play a mature themed game uncensored.
I'm very disappointed that Microsoft, Sony, Take2 and especially the Bricks and Mortar games retailers aren't heavily involved in campaigning for an appropriate rating system in Australia.
I'm cancelling by GTAIV special edition pre-order and will be purchasing a copy overseas. Local business be damned.
- Posted by: James on April 4, 2008 3:28 PM
Just a note to all PlayStation 3 owners: PS3 games are not region locked and you are able to import from any country, in any language that you desire.
Don't let the archaic and naive joke that the OFLC represents stop you from playing mature games.
If you are a mature adult, you deserve the right to choose what you consume, not let dinosaurs like the OFLC and the South Australian Attorney-General Michael Atkinson make your choices for you.
- Posted by: Nick on April 4, 2008 3:31 PM
Unbelievable.
I'll be cancelling my pre-order and importing. Screw You OFLC.
- Posted by: trev on April 4, 2008 3:35 PM
Who really cares? I'm not canceling my pre-order and does it really make a difference?
The majority of good games are not R18+ and do not rely on R18+ content to be quality games.
Why does it matter so much to you guys if there's a little less vulgar content? I'm assuming it'd be sex related as games are rarely censored for violence or language.
Posted by: anon on April 4, 2008 3:07 PM
I'm not cancelling my pre-order because I want more vulgar content, I'm doing it out of principle.
- Posted by: Antony Maait on April 4, 2008 3:43 PM
GTA III wasn't taken off the shelves because you could pick up prostitutes, it was because you could pick them up, then kill them afterwards and recoup your money. That was classified as "sexual violence", and the reason it was pulled.
And like someone else mentioned, it *was* classified by the board and released onto shelves; it would have been illegal to sell any copies of it without classification, let alone "thousands" of copies.
Importing GTA IV!
- Posted by: Adam on April 4, 2008 3:56 PM
Looks like I'll just pre-order the US version on ebay then.
- Posted by: Ducks on April 4, 2008 4:09 PM
Posted by: Nick on April 4, 2008 3:31 PM
Just a note to all PlayStation 3 owners: PS3 games are not region locked and you are able to import from any country, in any language that you desire.
But isn't it illegal?
- Posted by: Carl on April 4, 2008 4:24 PM
All I can say is here we go again.. =(
Abosolute joke.
- Posted by: Sentry459 on April 4, 2008 4:24 PM
Yeah, just import the game from another PAL territory. I've already done that as I wanted to preorder the special edition for the bonuses. My guess for the removed content would, for starters, be the sex club content eg lapdances/3 confirmed levels of prostitution.
I don't know why we can't get an R rating for games. Maybe that's something we'll get now Rudd's PM. *shrug* Here's hoping anyway.
- Posted by: Tony on April 4, 2008 4:29 PM
I have a lovely letter from a director of the OFLC letting me know that it is completely in the hands of the government to fix this problem. Apparently there is some sort of discussion on the subject being planned, but Australian governments acte VERY slowly. I am sick and tired of gimped games. I'm going to pick up my pre-order for the cool swag, but I will send another letter to my acquaintence at the top in regards to my abject disappointment.
And before you get excited about importing, what do you think the chances are that xbox live will play friendly with an out of region disc, pal or not? I rate M$ below our sorry governmental system in terms of giving people what they pay for. And guess what? Anyone who buys the gimped version is paying for gameplay they will never play.
Win win all round, don'tcha think?
- Posted by: cApAc_aMaRu on April 4, 2008 4:33 PM
The AU classification heads are kidding themselves if they believe that now, in 2008, they are able to still restrict content to Australians.
By imposing restrictions on 'official' releases, they are just shifting demand for games from local store shelves to online downloads and imports.
The government must get back to updating our archaic and restrictive game classification system. In our modern world, the governments role should be limited to advising concerned consumers, not restricting our liberties.
- Posted by: Nik on April 4, 2008 4:39 PM
I'm living in Europe at the moment so I guess I'll have to pick up the full version. Can't wait to get back to Australia one day and finally only get access to censored games and filtered Internet, all for 3x the price! It's just too scary having to make my own decisions...
- Posted by: blah on April 4, 2008 4:46 PM
were's the proof picture's vid evidence of Rockstar Rep telling them this i could go start a site and start a rep told me there going to be hardcore porn in it lol ill believe this when i see it official from rockstar
- Posted by: Evidence plz on April 4, 2008 4:50 PM
Thanks again OFLC! You have just cost retialers hundreds of thousands of dollars that will be going off shore. I have already canceled my order and placed an order with an overseas retailer.
Thanks again OFLC for treating your citizens as non-compus fools.
Thanks again OFLC for not facing the fact that the average age of gamers is 27 years old!
Thanks again OFLC for taking responsibility away from parents and forcing the adult gamer (the massive majority) to suffer because parents can't regulate their own childrens entertainment.
You and the government of this country need a reality check.
I want to support local industry and retailers but with this narrow-minded decision I will be sending my cash overseas.
- Posted by: Simon on April 4, 2008 4:50 PM
I don't get it. Paris Hilton's sex video is advertised on tv as a mobile phone video (which, I might add, is more easily accessible than a video game), yet the OFLC can't deicde on an R18+ rating for video games. I turn my back to you OFLC *turns back*.
- Posted by: Nafes on April 4, 2008 4:55 PM
New Zealand get some of its games from Australia, Does this mean us NZers will be getting edited Aus versions??? I might have to contact the distributor on monday...
- Posted by: Fletch on April 4, 2008 6:15 PM
What the hell is wrong with this country. I'm 20, the average age of a gamer is 28. WHAT IN THE WORLD IS GOING ON.
god the conservative right just doesn't want anyone "young" to have fun huh.
screw australia, i can't wait to purchase it overseas and give my money to a country that's NOT third world.
- Posted by: Jay from Sydney on April 4, 2008 6:16 PM
I bet this is just a big misunderstanding. The game probably isn't any different from the UK version.
- Posted by: Sektor on April 4, 2008 6:43 PM
I didn't have a pre order down but having seen this I immediately put my cash on a US copy which is now bought and paid for. This coupled with the fact that the price I paid including express shipping was about $50 LESS than the RRP ver here makes me wonder why I would ever buy games in this country.
- Posted by: Unsuprised on April 4, 2008 6:52 PM
I wonder if they (Rockstar) are regretting releasing that information? Surely they understand that everyone will be cancelling their pre-orders and importing it from elsewhere....I will be!
- Posted by: Anthony on April 4, 2008 8:04 PM
Your mission should you choose to accept it, is to use the gaming communities outrage over censorship to defend free speach.
GTA4 is being released on PS3 as a censored copy in australia thanks to the OFLC. Gamers around aus and indeed the world are up in arms, masses of aus gamers are cancelling pre orders and spending the cash overseas for uncensored copies of this game.
this is fortune in disguise.
..................
http://www.classification.gov.au
USE THIS LINK TO COMPLAIN TO THE OFLC IN AUSTRALIA ABOUT NOT HAVING A R18 CLASSIFICATION FOR VIDEO GAMES AND DEMAND ONE!!!
Unite with the resistance and fight for your rights! Visit:
www.prisonplanet.com
or if your are in australia:
www.infowars.com.au
BE THE CHANGE YOU WANT TO SEE.
................
paste that message on every gamer forum and channel this rage into the movement!!!
AND THEN PASTE THIS POST INTO EVERY COUNTER ESTABLISHMENT FORUM YOU KNOW OF!!!
infowar on!!!!! Twisted Evil
- Posted by: freedom on April 4, 2008 8:08 PM
Well, here is a prime example of a game that I will either be importing, or buying online and downloading.
There's no way I'll be buying a game that has been retarded, just so that a certain Attorney General, that is on a pissy power trip, can keep on tripping.
Want to know how to kill Australia's chances in the biggest Industry this side of the 20th century? Regulate it, and censor it into a dark age oblivion that every other civilised country abolished years ago.
- Posted by: RaYdeX on April 4, 2008 8:17 PM
gee im 17 and turn 18 in july. i do think that these games should have a 18+ rating becuase no one wants the watered down version
it is sad to think that people over the age of 18+ still have to play these "downgraded" games.
And if they still think that shooting guns at cops and killing people with guns is alright for 15 year olds, then they still got alot of thinking to do.
its not like im dying to see 3d nudity. its just that it does take away that experiance, and possibly a bigger chunk of the game. Cause the only reason we all love this games is becuase it is risky, contriversal. And thats what it needs to be for us to enjoy it.
- Posted by: Jimmy on April 4, 2008 8:21 PM
Sorry mates, I feel bad that you did not get the full version. Here in USA there is a lot of controversy about this game, but thankfully we'll get the real version. You should just get one from US or Europe, but make sure it'll work on your 360/PS3
- Posted by: Roman on April 4, 2008 10:20 PM
LOL what a joke. Makes me feel ASHAMED to be Australian. Not the country but the OFLC, incompetent excuses for "responsible parents" and people like Michael Atkinson.
The entire country has to suffer, now even with an ECONOMIC cost due to a religious fanatic.
- Posted by: Craig on April 4, 2008 11:20 PM
I have gone through every comment and surprisingly every single one is ANGRY!
I think that the OFLC is unbelivably controlsive what happened to Australia being a free country??
I thought that when i buy my games from the local games store that I'am playing the same game as a dude from asia or usa.
I should be allowed to play R18+ games (im 19)
I should be able to search the web without no filtering on what im viewing
- Posted by: Milo on April 5, 2008 1:04 AM
Outrage… Thank the musty old bureaucrats. Who the hell are they to govern something like this anyway, they don't have a clue. They couldnt govern a lemonade stall.
- Posted by: Adam on April 5, 2008 3:16 AM
I am a parent and a concerned member of the community. I am happy that our children won't be polluted with this pornographic filth. I for one would rather see that no games over PG are sold in Australia, because this pinball machines are only made for children who need to be protected from online predators. And studies have proven that these electronic games promote pre-teen sex, violence and drug addiction. I'm glad that we have great politicians who stand up for the youth of Australia.
- Posted by: William Murray on April 5, 2008 10:53 AM
Contact these people with your complaints. There is currently an initiative to start an 18+ rating in Australia, but if we don't make it known that we want it, its not going to happen.
http://www.ag.gov.au/www/agd/agd.nsf/Page/AbouttheDepartment_Contactus_Contactus
- Posted by: dave on April 5, 2008 2:48 PM
Re: William Murray
And this is where the issue lies. Video games are widely considered as 'kids' things and it a moral obligation to restrict access to material deleterious to impressionable minds.
Will an R18+ classification be successful in doing this? Will vendors continue to sell these "games" to children in spite of the law.
Or should it be recognised that the real "policing" is done by parents? It is really a statement of the times that the wider social order (aka. "nanny state") can overwhelm the parental powers of yesteryear.
- Posted by: Sal on April 5, 2008 3:20 PM
This is absolute crap. Everybody needs to tell the OFLC what a big mistake they're making:
http://www.classification.gov.au/special.html?n=1&p=227
Keep your arguements clear, and use proper spelling and grammar. (Though if you're over 18 you'll probably do so anyway.) We don't need any retards ruining our chances by saying "OMG U DALEET STUF FROM GTA 4 I HAT U PPL GRO SUM BALLZ U HOMOZ"
I believe that with enough encouragement, the OFLC may decide to leave the 1970's and possibly progress to the 80's, 90's, or if we're incredibly lucky, even the 00's.
- Posted by: Owen "Anonymous" Mudkipz on April 5, 2008 4:51 PM
"And studies have proven that these electronic games promote pre-teen sex, violence and drug addiction."
Yes, the same studies that prove too many visits to Madam Palm will make you blind, and that the world is flat.
"I'm glad that we have great politicians who stand up for the youth of Australia."
Why don't they stand up for me? I also consider myself part of Australia's youth (albeit over 18). If your children access restricted content then the blame lies with you.
- Posted by: blah on April 5, 2008 5:22 PM
Don't blame to OFLC. Blame the Hon MICHAEL ATKINSON MP, the South Australian Attorney General. He is the ONLY Attorney general holding out on allowing an R18+ rating for games.
Otherwise we'd HAVE the uncensored version, albeit rated R18+.
- Posted by: Michael on April 5, 2008 7:34 PM
@William Murray. As a 43 year old gamer HOW DARE you dictate to me what games I'm allowed to play. I don't go out onto your gold course and disrupt your game. Don't get in my way and disrupt my hobby you MORON!
I know many parents who play games and who are INFORMED (Unlike you). Stop using a games as defacto babysitters and actually BECOME a parent.
- Posted by: Michael on April 5, 2008 7:42 PM
I too have cancelled my pre-order and all customers at my shop who have pre-ordered have been notified and had their copies cancelled. I shall be buying my new stock from 'yesasia.com' - much better pricing and FREE postage.
WE want what the developers MADE for us.
- Posted by: Zeeko on April 6, 2008 1:05 AM
Re William Murray
Is it not your duty as a parent to monitor and raise your own child. This game was never intended for children and thanks to people like you it got a MA15+ rating instead of R18+ and will be sold to kids all over Australia, congratulations sir.
- Posted by: Adam on April 6, 2008 1:06 AM
does anyone know the best place to order gta4 for xbox 360?
- Posted by: pete on April 6, 2008 2:17 AM
"I am a parent and a concerned member of the community. I am happy that our children won't be polluted with this pornographic filth."
William of course realises that the lack of an R18 rating means GTA4 - with all the cop-killing and violence of the previous entries in the series - will be being sold to 15 year olds.
Hooray! Bravo! What a brilliant piece of decision-making! The kids are safe!
On the other hand, if there were an R18 rating, it would only be lawful to sell it to adults.
Man, I can see why you're so happy with the retarded present system.
Meanwhile, thank god you're out there to tell the rest of us adults what we can and can't watch.
- Posted by: Jeremy on April 6, 2008 8:15 AM
Pro R18+ here.
I strongly believe that when a country is censoring itself it has no faith in itself. Also the fact that upcomming games like GTAIV are censored so they can be sold to 15 year olds is absurd. first of all this game was never designed for 15 year olds and now they get to play it anyway, they still get to run people over in cars no matter how much you dumb the game down. all those fools saying no to R18 are basically voting for 15 year olds to play these type of games. secondly, most adult gamers are getting this product from overseas now, thus hurting the Australian retail sector. and one more word to the people who claim that games are for kids only or that games lead to animal abuse or incest or even killing spree's, please.....get a effin grip on reality. the rest of the world has these ratings in place so why cant we? do you no voters really believe we are better than Europe or North America?
- Posted by: jim on April 6, 2008 9:25 AM
Thank you Michael Atkinson, thanks to people like you we can look forward to never having to think again.
- Posted by: beefsack on April 6, 2008 1:38 PM
First they arbitrarily jack up the price in Australia to A$120, when elsewhere it is US$59.99 (A$65).
Im checking the 360 compatibility guide on Play-Asia every few days now, waiting to see if the US version is PAL compatible, then ordering Manhunt 2 at the same time.
- Posted by: Lock on April 6, 2008 6:06 PM
this is bs man.
i feel like ive been cheated ive had it on pre-order since the release date was announced, and they are only giving me half the game
if anything the game im getting shouldnt be edited! i paided for the special editon that cost $150 with all the added stuff like a bag a cd book and saftey deposit box, if mines a special editon..... i dont want no edited one! i want wat ive already paid for!
- Posted by: sam on April 6, 2008 7:58 PM
Guys and gals - I'm really disappointed with this as much as you are and have taken steps to obtain my import copy from NZ.
It's natural that all these flames get directed to OFLC - after all they decide on classification. BUT, I must add that they don't decide on the types of classification that are available - they just slot films/games into the appropriate categories. The committee who actually decide on the types of classification that are available for implementation by the OFLC is the Standing Committee of Attorneys-General (Censorship), which met on the 30th of March, 2008. To read more about the meeting, head over to http://www.refused-classification.com/ud_08_03.htm
- Posted by: Beer Belly on April 6, 2008 9:00 PM
Please sign this petition, its the only way we can make a difference and I will print ithem off and send them to OFLC and anywhere else I can make the Australia government see we need to make this difference. Thanks to everyone who has signed it so far.
- Posted by: Robert Byrne on April 6, 2008 9:30 PM
Can we get a SMH poll on this issue?
- Posted by: Lachlan on April 6, 2008 11:17 PM
I'm just glad i've got the advanced heads up. It's only gonna hurt Australian retailers because a hell of a lot of consumers just like me are gonna import em' from off shore and bypass the local marketplace all together. We wait for years for an recreational media event such as a GTA title and dahmed if I want aything less than the complete & total experience. I'm not going to be dictated as to what what is acceptable for my moral consumtion by anyone thankyou, so if nothing else as a F.U gesture i'm taking a moment to find an offshore supplier to order my copy...what a farce!
- Posted by: Jammer on April 7, 2008 8:58 AM
There a few gamers in my office who were going to pick up GTA from local retailers. I've just let them know about importing a non-edited, cheaper version from OS. We are now organising a combined online order from playasia.
- Posted by: Pedroux on April 7, 2008 10:23 AM
i agree i don't understand why we have R18+ movies yet we cant have R18+ games. GTA is no worse than watching a good old fashion horror movie where everyone gets hacked to pieces or a movie from Quentin Tarantino (of which im a huge fan of)
In some ways i think this is the government missing the mark yet again with young adults, im not saying that kids should b allowed acces to this game but people like myself 23yo should be allowed.
Well theres 3wks till release of what surely will be a great game lets just see if common sense will prevail.
- Posted by: Jonno from tas on April 7, 2008 1:15 PM
Phelan you're actually wrong. American Psycho has the same plastic wrap around it that porn does in newsagents so that's a completely false claim.
- Posted by: Brad on April 7, 2008 1:49 PM
i'd say just import it from NZ. it works out cheaper with the exchange rate anyway
- Posted by: Rickd on April 8, 2008 9:15 AM
Has there been any word on what has actually been removed?
I would like to weigh between importing a copy and having my copy compatible with any content available from the AU online stores.
I'd like to import a copy, solely on principle, but after consideration I think if the missing element/s are minor I would rather have access to online content locally.
- Posted by: Ducks on April 8, 2008 10:50 AM
Well, I have just written to the OFLC in disgust, and called EB Games to cancel my pre order, and placed my order from the USA. And I am sure there are many many more ppl doing the same thing..
- Posted by: Chris on April 8, 2008 12:23 PM
No probs. I have a PS3 so I will just pick it up from Hong Kong.
Thanks OFLC, as if the ridiculous Aussie prices weren't enough to make me buy OS, things like this reinforce gamer's desires to shop global, not local.
RIP game retailing in Australia.
- Posted by: mr_wowtrousers on April 8, 2008 2:40 PM
Xbox 360 owners cop the brunt of this, really. At least PS3 versions are regionless, so it's possible to order another copy from somewhere nearby like Asia. Not so many places use PAL like us.
- Posted by: THE INTERNET on April 8, 2008 2:51 PM
I am on everyones side on this as I hate the fact that we get edited versions of games all because we are behind the times.
But I do think that maybe one point that should be considered is that maybe the OFLC feels that having R18+ ratings on games will open a huge can of worms of the types of games that will be released? Like if GTA San Andreas is only MA15 then imagine what would constitute an R18+ game (and really why would anyone want to play something so sick and twisted??)
I think everyone is feeling p!ssed because no one likes to hear that some release is going to be tampered with but I doubt that the OFLC makes their decisions purely to p!ss us off?!?!
Anyway we can buy it from overseas for cheaper and unedited so this will only shoot Australian gaming and the OFLC in their own foot
- Posted by: Fonzy on April 8, 2008 3:02 PM
Also, another thing, aren't NZ getting the same stock as Australia??
- Posted by: Chris on April 8, 2008 3:11 PM
@THE INTERNET
just think of it as balancing out the 360's extra DLC
- Posted by: Ultimate Russ on April 8, 2008 3:29 PM
Re: THE INTERNET on April 8, 2008 2:51 PM
360 owners could import from NZ...
Re: Chris on April 8, 2008 3:11 PM
No, they get the uncut version.
- Posted by: asdf on April 8, 2008 3:36 PM
"Has there been any word on what has actually been removed?
I would like to weigh between importing a copy and having my copy compatible with any content available from the AU online stores.
I'd like to import a copy, solely on principle, but after consideration I think if the missing element/s are minor I would rather have access to online content locally."
What do you mean? We can still access the DLC if we import it can't we?
- Posted by: lol on April 8, 2008 4:07 PM
Purchase from www.gpstore.co.nz or www.playasia.com (might be a hyphen in there). I've ordered mine with the first of these companies, have found them reliable in the past. NZ game will not be censored since they have R18 classification. Cheers.
- Posted by: andrew on April 8, 2008 4:42 PM
Looks like i'll have t go to ebay, i'm not getting no censored version. Xbox 360 orders can get PAL version games from Europe, England and most of Asia, so Xbox 360 owners have no need to worry there is hope.
- Posted by: pete on April 8, 2008 5:27 PM
Does anyone know from a Xbox point of view, that ordering a PAL version outside of Australia will have any effect on playing the game online and with downloadable content etc?
Depending on removed content VS restrictions on how I play online will impact my decision.
- Posted by: Brett on April 8, 2008 10:42 PM
I really thought Australia was easy going country for things like this .
I would laugh if no one bought a copy of gta in australia , wont happen but it would be a laugh ... "sigh".
Soon enough we will have a R18+ rating for video games ... maybe not ?
- Posted by: corey on April 8, 2008 11:56 PM
yeah another overseas order here too. aussie ps3 game retailers must be taking a beating on region free games. cheers sony
if Atkinson can provide concrete research that interactivity (his main arguement about the difference between film and games) is damaging to young kids then fair enough - kids shouldnt have access to it. no gamer over the age of 18 is debating this. we want games for us, give us an r18 classification, and proceed to nail any retailer's balls to the wall that sells the content to minors.
i would also suggest that some games that made ma15+ dont belong there and should be upgraded to r18
- Posted by: davo 23 on April 9, 2008 12:09 AM
This is so bad its just a fake GTA we dont want crappy cut crap we want proper GTA IV!
- Posted by: Andrew on April 9, 2008 9:55 AM
What do you mean? We can still access the DLC if we import it can't we?
Posted by: lol on April 8, 2008 4:07 PM
My experience of OS games thus far on the PS3 is that the game runs fine but all online interaction is disabled. I suspect 'patch' style content will *probably* work but have no proof as yet.
But I'd love to know for sure what is removed from the game if I buy locally. And what (if anything) I may miss out on online by importing.
- Posted by: Ducks on April 9, 2008 10:21 AM
we
need
to
know
what
has
been
cut
- Posted by: Pete on April 9, 2008 10:54 AM
This is what I just wrote to the Attorney Generals Department:
"I have just read a few articles about the censoring of Grand Theft Auto IV due to the lack of an R18+ video game rating in Australia.
WHEN WILL YOU WAKE UP? I am 23 years of age, a whole 5 years BELOW the average age of a gamer in Australia and I DEMAND AN R18+ RATING FOR VIDEO GAMES!
This has gone beyond a joke now. We are the only westernised country in the world to not have this rating, this DEMOCRATIC RIGHT AND FREEDOM OF CHOICE.
Thanks to the MA15+ rating of GTAIV, kids will easily get their hands on it anyway, funny isnt it? Since the game will be rated MA15+ (with censorship), parents will be less inclined to question it's content and kids will easily have access to it. If you had an R18+ rating, what do you think would happen? Do you think parents would question the content then? OF COURSE THEY WOULD! What don't you understand?
Having an R18+ rating for video games is THE ONLY WAY TO PROTECT CHILDREN from inappropriate content in interactive entertainment.
The video game ratings system in Australia is archaic, undemocratic and unreasonable. It needs to be changed IMMEDIATELY!
Oh, and by the way, thanks to you, thousands of Australians are cancelling their orders of GTAIV and ordering from overseas. So you see, not only do you deny our democratic right and freedom of choice, you cost businesses hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Does that make you happy? Do you think that is fair? Please, wake up and get with the times. This is not China, not a communist country. This is not a country based on radical religious beliefs, THIS IS AUSTRALIA!
- Posted by: Andreas on April 9, 2008 11:27 AM
NOT A SUPRISE THAT ANOTHER GOOD GAME IS EDITED.
THE PEOPLE THAT RUN THE CLASSIFICATION BOARD DON'T PLAY GAMES.
MOST PEOPLE WOULD LIKE TO SEE AN R RATING FOR GAMES.
THATS WHY I WON'T BE BUYING IT IN OZ. WHICH DOESN'T HELP OUR MARKET.
FROM A DISAPPOINTED GAMER
DAN
I'M 24 AND PLAY GAMES!!
- Posted by: Dan on April 9, 2008 1:15 PM
What the stupid people who are against an R18 rating don't understand is all they are doing is making the games companies tokenly 'tone down' the content to enable an MA15+.
Don't these people realise that their 15 year olds are still playing games with violence/nudity/insert inappropriate content, when if there was an R18+ rating then it would be ILLEGAL to sell to them in the first place so they wouldn't get them!!! The games companies I imagine love gaining the MA rating to enable a much wider consumer base of the 15 year old + kids plus I would imagine the 14, 13, 12, 11 and 10 year olds who's parents don't care enough to look at the cover of the game in the first place, as long as it makes them happy or rather stop whining.
I was at the video store the other day and no joke what looked like a 12 year old said to his mum, hey I haven't seen this yet (this being Hostel 2) she said ok son without even looking at it. This indicates that he had already seen the first one which was enough said in my opinion.
- Posted by: McBeen on April 9, 2008 2:23 PM
My experience of OS games thus far on the PS3 is that the game runs fine but all online interaction is disabled. I suspect 'patch' style content will *probably* work but have no proof as yet.
* Posted by: Ducks on April 9, 2008 10:21 AM
Are you sure? What games have this issue?
I've never had issues with playing my overseas sourced PS3 games online.
- Posted by: decoy octopus on April 9, 2008 5:44 PM
Hello, what can I say, Australia MUST raise the ratings, i am 34 years old, i can make my own desisions. Get your act togeather
D.Larsen
- Posted by: Duane Larsen on April 9, 2008 8:43 PM
If you want to complain this is the department you need to deal with,
Just send your anger here[ complaints@ag.gov.au ] and tell them that their policies on videogame classification need to be modernized to cater for contemporary Australia.
- Posted by: POPPY on April 10, 2008 12:00 AM
yep im canceling as well im not paying something that cost more then the uncensored version they got to be dreaming importing the Limited Edition for sure ARGH!
- Posted by: balky on April 10, 2008 12:54 AM
AH have a winge guys
you can get it from gamesman.co.nz for less than what they are selling it for in Australia - DELIVERED
That is the benefit of living in Australia Currency Conversion baby.
that way you will get the uncensored version for like $20 less
- Posted by: James on April 10, 2008 11:56 AM
I would take this rumor with a pinch of salt. Considering there has been no official statement to this effect from Rockstar directly then this news remains as speculation. I would also like to know how the OFLC managed to rate the game in December 2007 when it was still not complete? If it has been edited in anyway it demonstrates that due to the lack of an 18+ certificate for games, Australian gamers are treated as if our passtime is for kids only. Ironic given the average age of gamers in Australia is in their mid thirties! If Take Two Australia do not clarify this issue then I am sure that a lot of sales of this title will go to overseas suppliers through online sales. Remember the PS3 plays games from any region and most major XBOX360 titles are region free in their Asian or US versions an unedited UK version will definitely work here with no problems. Lets vote with our wallets and simply buy the game online it is always cheaper too! Hopefully this will make the publishers apply some pressure on the Government to speed up the changes needed to our ridiculous ratings system.
- Posted by: Furboy on April 10, 2008 1:06 PM
glad i live in england!! i didnt think id eva see the day england would refuse a game till manhunt 2! but all seems kosha for GTA IV so bring it on!!
- Posted by: KingCappo on April 10, 2008 1:38 PM
does the us version gta4 work on an australian ps3 system
- Posted by: Robert on April 11, 2008 2:52 PM
@Robert
Yes it will. There is no region code for games on the PS3. You can buy games anywhere overseas and it will work on your Australian PS3.
- Posted by: Oniichan on April 11, 2008 3:44 PM
well i have cancelled my pre order , plann to buy over seas. if people were to cancel theres, if this happens, in a big chunk rockstar might pull their fingers out of there arse and fight back instead of playing ball.
- Posted by: tom on April 12, 2008 10:45 AM
its times like these i AM SO GLAD to live in NZ. I truly feel sorry for GTA fans in australia.
(that wasnt sarcasm btw)
- Posted by: Conner on April 12, 2008 3:34 PM
So whats the go with importing then? Ebay? I've never imported before, and it looks like I will soon.
- Posted by: ben on April 12, 2008 8:24 PM
This sucks...
Only if they had brought in the R18+ rating earlier it would be much easier..
Now i am having to import it...
But the problem is.. will it get through customs....?
- Posted by: Gordan on April 13, 2008 10:10 AM
Idiots... The one time we don't follow the Americans. Well done Australia.. ffs
- Posted by: Brian on April 14, 2008 12:21 AM
This is so dissapointing, and makes buying a game in Aus i have been looking forward to for years seem like a massive rip off. Censoring the game here is ridiculous. I am cancelling my pre order. Does anyone know if the New Zealand version comes with the bonus pack and is the game packaging and everything like that the same as in aus??
- Posted by: Craig Smith on April 14, 2008 5:34 PM
Never paid Australian retail for my PS3 games and I am defiantly not going to start now. (COD3 for $45 on eBay!)
- Posted by: canoli on April 15, 2008 1:57 AM
Bad news for anyone in Australia who ordered the NZ version... they're getting our edited copies for release there. Just confirmed by gpstore.co.nz who are cancelling Aussie orders because of this.
- Posted by: LevonJP on April 15, 2008 1:44 PM
After looking at the OFLC website, and doing a search in the classification database, it still has the version listing as original, not revised like in san andreas.
GTA IV:
Classification MA 15+ (Not suitable for people under 15. Under 15s must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian)
Consumer Advice Strong violence, Strong coarse language, Drug and sexual references
Category Computer Games
Version ORIGINAL
Duration variable
Date of Classification 11 December 2007
Author ROCKSTAR NORTH
Publisher ROCKSTAR GAMES
Production Company ROCKSTAR GAMES
Country of Origin UK
Applicant TAKE 2 INTERACTIVE SOFTWARE
File Number T07/6147
Classification Number 5273444B
San Andreas:
Classification MA 15+ (Not suitable for people under 15. Under 15s must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian)
Consumer Advice Strong violence, Strong coarse language
Category Computer Games
Version REVISED
Duration variable
Date of Classification 12 September 2005
Author NOT SHOWN
Publisher ROCKSTAR GAMES
Production Company ROCKSTAR NORTH
Country of Origin UK
Applicant TAKE 2 INTERACTIVE SOFTWARE
File Number T04/3701
Classification Number 73403362
From this, I take it as the original version is being released here in 2 weeks.
- Posted by: Shuboxx on April 15, 2008 3:57 PM
@ Shuboxx
Jason has confirmed that we'll be receiving an edited version of GTA.
A few people over on The Age have speculated that the version may be "original" because R* didn't submit an uncut version at all this time around.
That is, since R* did the self-censoring and weren't denied classification, there was no need to submit a revised version.
- Posted by: Lith on April 15, 2008 10:02 PM
According to the website N4G NZ will also be getting the censored version!
http://www.n4g.com/News-134946.aspx
- Posted by: Dave on April 16, 2008 10:17 AM
Who cares?
Just buy it from play-asia and get the normal version. Not only do you get the full game, but also a cheaper price. It costs max $80 after postage from the web, while it costs $120 from EB games - why buy from an Australian store?
Actually if the stores pulled their fingers out and applied pressure to the govt, we'd prolly already have a R18+ rating!!
- Posted by: Josh on April 17, 2008 3:59 PM
I recently attempted to import GTA 4 from NZ, only to be told that it was the same version as the Australian one.
Due to this, I have pulled out of the sale and lost close to 130 dollars in transaction fees.
Not only is this a monetary loss, but also it has placed un-neccessary stress on me and my family.
To the South Australian Senator, and all those who oppose the R rating, get you heads out of the 1950's and realise that games are a legitimate form of entertainment and must be classified as such.
- Posted by: Robbie Marsh on April 18, 2008 10:15 AM
will the Online mutiplayer stuff in the Imported/US version still be able to work on Aus sytems? or will compatibility crap come into it.
BOOO, BOOO VERY MUCH TO THE OFLC YOU ARE WAY BEHIND, AUS N NZ, THE ONLY 2 DAMN COUNTRIES IN THE ENTIRE WORLD THAT GET THE EDITED VERSION. YOU CANT BE SERIOUS.!! ITS DISGUSTING!!!
- Posted by: shayn on April 18, 2008 4:39 PM
Hi all,
what a joke once again we get stiffed
like a two year old that cant have a lolly, where f**king adults that can make our own decisions not some tosser.
I think just about every PS3 owner will source their copy from overseas just to spite our ridiculous censorship laws.
One question? will and can customs seize it, do you think with everyone saying their importing it won't they be on the lookout? and would you get fined?
About online play i have bought a few games and have never had any issues playing online.
People worrying about online content or whatever should ceate a new account and use a US address and different e-mail to sign up which allows you to access the US PS store
which has way more content available :)
- Posted by: Dan on April 18, 2008 10:02 PM
For anyone hoping to get the unedited version from New Zealand..apparently it will be censored there aswell. The best bet is from Europe or England. Make sure you get the PAL version aswell. Things will change in Australia eventually.
- Posted by: Brad on April 19, 2008 2:27 AM
can you import this game?? i thought with pal and all you cant unless you on a US version PS3? or is the PS3 Region Free??
- Posted by: Chrisy on April 20, 2008 12:57 PM
Hey all,
To all of you guys who are pretty angry about getting a censored version, just get one from the United States, cheaper and uncensored!
- Posted by: Anon on April 21, 2008 1:29 AM
I just bought the region-free Asian uncensored version of the game from an eBay seller in HK. Its in English and is just like the USA game.
The game will arrive 7 days later than normal, presumably in order for the seller to change the game settings to make it compatible for PAL consoles.
Great success!
- Posted by: Josh on April 21, 2008 1:44 PM
i wont be buying it, even if i had a ps3.. wont pay f0r cencored games.
- Posted by: Brendan on April 22, 2008 10:12 AM
Adults play games too you know! this is shocking news IMPORT FOR MEEE !!!
- Posted by: dave on April 22, 2008 9:03 PM
God you left-wing nuts are as stupid as the right-wing nuts. Censorship is not the sole domain of the right and Kevin Rudd certainly isn't going to save you as he wants to censor the entire internet.
I think it is time to take a stand against censorship.
- Posted by: Andrew on April 25, 2008 12:09 AM
Australia being a free country? Only just, seeing as we don't have a constitution protecting our right to free speech.
- Posted by: anon on April 25, 2008 10:22 AM
just so you know the game is region locked so imports will maintain the censorship required for the region in question.
Perhaps you'll have to log into a PSN (if you've got a PS3) account for a different region to avoid this from happening
http://www.kotaku.com.au/games/2008/04/rockstar_confirms_gta_iv_region_locked.html
- Posted by: chugs on April 25, 2008 12:12 PM
omg why?, i moved to australia from england like 7 months ago, ive been waiting for this game for ages! and australia is getting a cut version, how sad! this is bitterly dissapointing!
- Posted by: andystanny101 on April 25, 2008 6:59 PM
@ chugs
This would most probably apply to the 360 and potentially anyone using an Australian PSN account to play online, but for offline play on the PS3 I don't think there should be any issue.
- Posted by: Lith on April 26, 2008 2:03 AM
My letter to the Australian Office of film and literature classification.
Hi, I’ve just cancelled my pre-ordered copy of the upcoming April 29th game "Grand Theft Auto 4" due to the fact that the Australian version has been "censored" because of your laws. Now, GTA4 has taken almost four years to make, over a thousand people have been involved in the construction of this work of art. We Aussie’s want to experience the full spectrum of this collective effort. Why does the Australian government assume that its country members are ill able to discern computer generated images from reality? If it’s the children that you are worried about then perhaps you should look at the statistics which clearly show that the average gamer is well over 18 years old and that the video game experience is becoming more and more mainstream. Because of this, we (like the rest of the world) should jump on board and give games an R18+ rating like the movies. AT LEAST provide consumers with a choice between a censored and non-censored version. Quite frankly my solution was simple and easy: Order from UK, which I have and so too have many, many others. But this comes at the cost of knowing that Australian businesses lose money at the thousands of people who have decided to order from overseas. Now I’m proud to be an Australian and I love my country, which is why I have gone to the effort of writing this, I hope, in turn, the Australian Government takes note on the fact that I speak for a huge majority of people in Australia who do not want to be treated differently to every single other country in the world. I personally think, given our history and culture, that we are probably the most capable out of the rest of the world to handle the full extent of this game.
Yours hopefully,
Someone who loves his country.
- Posted by: Billy on April 26, 2008 2:12 PM
This is a load of crap. Don't panic.
Take 2 Interactive submitted the FULL and UNCENSORED version of GTA IV to the OFLC and it passed without revision.
See [url="http://www.classification.gov.au/special.html?n=115&p=36&sCertificate=5273444B"]Classification Number 5273444B[/url] at the OFLC for full details.
- Posted by: Chris on April 27, 2008 1:15 AM
My bad.
I can't believe I was so out of the loop on this... It seems that Rockstar did indeed submit an edited version to the Australian OFLC and even implored them to redress the lack of an R18+ rating for games in our country.
My apologies for doubting you, Jason.
- Posted by: Chris on April 27, 2008 1:49 AM
yet again, the morons of the oflc have struck, wake up you bunch of idiots. i am one person in many that is agreeing that we need a r18+ classification, but obviously you bunch of a%$#@$s won't, they are too busy excercising their rich, over-paid (corrupted) fat asses, while australia starts to fall behind the rest of the world.
I too will cancel my pre-order and will import the game for the xbox 360. i am sick of hearing this garbage over and over again.
I talked about this with friends, they say the same thing, but parents are telling me that this is good, and be happy that thwe game is at least coming to the country. i told them that this is beside the point, why should the rest of the world get the gold and silver, while australia suffers with the bronze. they are worried that the game will be unsuitable for children to play ? WHAT ? releasing the game as a ma15+ classification and you idiots are worried about children playing this game ? WE NEED A R18+ CLASSIFICATION TO CATCH UP WITH THE REST OF THE WORLD. because if you don't, then people (including children) will look elsewhere to get their hands on this (uncensored version) game, this also includes importing and downloading the game illegially? (not that i am promoting piracy ... i hate it)
- Posted by: nme_181 on April 27, 2008 10:26 AM
yeewww sick one.
an MA15+ GTA would be like watching an R rated porno. i dont want to be missing good stuff from the game.so im importing. sorry JB HI-FI, but you wont be getting my money for this one
- Posted by: blur on April 27, 2008 11:44 PM
its not the OFCL to blame, ive read that they have been pushing for the R+18 rating for a bit, and that its the attorney genrals that are holding the rating back the mugs. and potentially costing aussie retailers bundles. which isnt great, and pretty sad really. ohwell im importing. sorry JB HI FI!!!
- Posted by: blur on April 28, 2008 12:22 AM
You can forget about ordering it from here in New Zealand, thanks to your OFLC, we're getting the censored version too. The full version is completely legal here and allowed but apparently its a logistical thing. So thanks heaps Australian OFLC, pricks.
- Posted by: Dimms on April 28, 2008 12:39 PM
I bought mine on ebay, theres some local sellers in VIC selling the uncut version which i guess they ordered from europe or asia, runs on PAL. Only had to pay $85 delivered to my door so i'm saving money.
- Posted by: sam on April 28, 2008 1:50 PM
I don't think I've ever hated a person more then I hate Michael Atkinson. Does anyone know how many years he has left on this planet?
Get off your high horse, get with the times and give us an R18+!
Funny thing is, even though I'm going to have to wait a day or two more on delivery, it's worth it to get the uncut U.S. version that ended up being cheaper then the retail version here AND I can play import games on the PS3. Good move Sony, good move!!
- Posted by: Joel Punch on April 28, 2008 3:12 PM
ahh dammit to hell this isnt fair, why do we the gamers above the age of 18 have to suffer because bitchy mothers who are too stupid to read warning labels go and buy it for their 5 year old children, its not fair, we need an 18+ rating here already, come on Sydney Morning Herald, if you guys and girls manage to get that r18+ so i can get proper unedited copies of gta, i will personally make sure your sales double
- Posted by: SHaunoez on April 28, 2008 6:56 PM
It was fun on GTA III, on Vice City, on San Andreas. I really think though Australia, as I am a proud Australian and a 2nd generation immigrant (meaning parents are foreign born), I must say it does nothing though to solve the issues which censorship tries to do.
Education of moral precepts and of video games, Educating parents to properly supervise all entertainmnet to children should be taught first.
A 12 year old can get there older sister/brother to rent 'Texas Chainsaw massacre' and that does not impact the childs mentality? I remember when I first watched Chucky when I was 7. I still remember the doll turning its head to its back.
Nevertheless its going to be fun, even if we got an awesome unique version of the game. I for one say to everyone complaining of the editing; if you need the things that were taken out to play a game you're not a true GTA fan.
- Posted by: Vlad on April 28, 2008 11:32 PM
Importing Now . . .
- Posted by: digit on April 29, 2008 9:42 AM
do not import it from nz cos they also have an edited version. i really do not care if it is edited because if it would be anything substantial it would have been banned.
- Posted by: Sam on April 29, 2008 9:37 PM
Purchased my copy of GTA IV before I knew that it was the censored copy. WHY don't we have an (R) rating??? the censorship is a infuriating fact but after playing the first four missions I don't notice any censorship. There’s still violence, sexual references and loads of corse language.. WTF are they censoring, blasphemy? If it’s sexual content then I’m all the more un impressed.. What, its okay to kill someone but sex is bad??? Get Real!
- Posted by: James on April 30, 2008 2:16 PM
MMMM... dont know guys.Playing EB games ps3 Ma15+ version for 2 days now and I cant believe that this is watered down. Went to the triangle club and that was as good as a real lap dance with use of camera angles. the language is everywhere to the point i have to turn the sound right down and be aware of where my 4 yr old is. If anything has been deleted sex scene wise then this game would be classified X rated which I dont know exists. I dont feel Im missing anything yet and if something has been removed it must be pretty hardcore. Then the race will be on for who can do the best Video Porn Game. the only bitch i have is I dont reckon this is 1080p or 720p as stated on the box. Enjoy and happy vodkas comrade
- Posted by: Kitesurfer on April 30, 2008 5:57 PM
Buy an X Box??? I wouldn't pay $1 for an X Box. The PS3 is better in every aspect. You nedd f#$%ing batteries for the controllers for christs sake and it doesn't have the six axis feature. The X Box controllers are the worst designed controller EVER!! I'd rather use a friggin Atari controller. Don't even get me started on Halo. Go Ps3.
- Posted by: Uncle Bob on May 13, 2008 12:21 PM
Dont buy the NZ version,
For some F'ed up reason NZ also gets the watered down version - thanks to the Austrailian OFLC !!! But it is rated R18 anyway...
- Posted by: Bri on May 14, 2008 1:29 AM
You guys are a bunch of losers. I bet you're all about 13 years old, having a bitch about how you wont get to see as many virtual boobies in the new GTA.
Did you idiots even realise that R* havent even told anyone what was edited from the game? - Play the damn thing and you'll find that its NOT MUCH.
Heres what Ive found so far:
1. Sex scenes are shot from a different angle, so you dont see anything (but who gives a F*&^ ? - get a girlfriend!)
2. Strippers in the stip clubs offer you dances, but the option to accept has been edited, to make it harder to press the LB button. - but if you press it quick enough, it will still work. (But again; WHO CARES?)
R* are a bunch of cheeky developers, I'm sure they would have found some sort of way to make the least changes possible.
Don't forget that this is a game filled with violence - none of which has been changed for the Aus version.
Its a top game, so how about you actually play it and stop complaining .
- Posted by: Adriano on May 14, 2008 10:19 AM
Thanks for the link, bought it from NZ ! I'll give my current "standard edition" copy to a friend and start the game from the start no cheats this time !!
Have been having a blast.. sad no tank :( oh well
And no aeroplanes you can fly.. hopefully in a patch PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE BIG R
WE LOVE YOU BIG R great game ;) nearly perfect 10's across the board.
Sux to be aussie..
BTW PAL/NTSC doesn't matter on HDTV. They all run at 720p 1080i or 1080p, thus the region free to match!
- Posted by: Noone on May 15, 2008 9:16 PM
To Adriano: Actually I'm 27 (the average age of gamers these days) and it's just not about what we are missing out on it's the principle of the thing. Why should adults have to miss out on things because Australia will not get with the times and give us a classification system equal to the film system. What about the games that are banned because no cuts could possibly make it into the MA+ system; Manhunter, Phantasmagoria etc. These examples were actually quite good games despite the violence yet we had to import them to be able to play them. So don't call me a bitchy 13 year old for wanting the fully uncensored game, which in these days I think Australians are entitled to.
P.S. I noticed ebay has cracked down on sellers selling the U.S version of GTA IV. Glad I got my copy before they shut that down.
- Posted by: Joel on May 16, 2008 8:44 AM
Correction: Manhunter = Manhunt
- Posted by: Joel on May 16, 2008 8:48 AM
Stop censoring our goddamn games. We are not three year olds.
Pathetic. All censorship should be abolished.
- Posted by: Lachlan Dale on May 16, 2008 9:26 AM
i think it's really stupid that they would sensor this stuff and not let it through, yet we have movies that are rated m15+ that show more than some r18 movie i have ever seen, we call this the lucky country but hell i feel ripped of living in this country when will we ever catch up to the rest of the world
- Posted by: Jarrod on May 18, 2008 5:46 AM
"A Rockstar spokesperson confirmed to Screen Play yesterday that the company had produced a special version of GTA IV to comply with the Australian classification system, which does not currently contain an R18+ rating, but declined to reveal what material had been cut."
Technically all you people saying Rockstar promised us an UNcut version, well you got one, Rockstar made a special version of GTA IV before getting the classification, thats when the UNcut part of it comes into it, because the game they supplied to be rated was already changed and needed no further editing. [ just clearing that up ]
To think after all the GTA history with Australia why would you think, you would get the same version as the rest of the world?.
the Federal members [ not sure if its federal members or another section] of each state all need to agree on the 18+ rating, there is a guy in SA who always disagrees with it, claiming he is protecting children, he is a heavily religious man, so getting something through like this may never happen.
also have some of you read about the guys that got their Imported GTA IV games stopped at customs??
anything banned in australia technically is illegal to have so just watch yourselves.
- Posted by: Markus on May 18, 2008 9:42 AM
get stuffed i want the full version the australia department are all pansies if they cut anything good from the game ill start a riot. freaks.....
- Posted by: pac on June 14, 2008 8:11 PM
Guys when they say cut they mean like taming down the vulgaritie fights and slightly scrolling to iether left or right during a snuff out cutscene that gets a little to O_o'ing not cutting out missions or features so just shut the hell up. i seem to have a little more intelligence then you people so i will then infact apollogize for all the 5 year olds that sneak into someones room while said person is peeing and playing for like 3 hours becuase of loking the player in the restroom then cursing like a sailor. Thank u and plz come again to my roflcopter.
- Posted by: GTAlols on June 16, 2008 7:32 AM
im 16. so the MA15+ has its upside for me, but i would rather wait for another 2 years and get an uncensored copy of the game from australia (i would actualy get an older person to get it for me now), then have an edited version, where everyone misses out on all the 'good stuff'. i mean why must we 'think of the children' when only adults can purchase material with an 18+ rating!
- Posted by: Jam Master Sam on June 17, 2008 2:01 PM
why do this? im from the uk, I know we're all a bunch of violent yobs but aren't u aussies meant to be wasted, foul mouthed, and generally taking informality to new levels 24/7?
I would've thought you'd have made a MORE obscene version specially for you guys!!
ridiculous being censored like that. Although our porn is really really crap here - thank god for the internet!
- Posted by: Paul on July 1, 2008 9:44 PM
I may only be an 11 year old in an adults world but i have played GTA before and i have an American Ps3 and the American GTA4 but i dont go into school with a knife and gun and stab my friends,teachers and people whom i truly dislike.
I reckon this country has one thing really wrong with it and that is the OFLC.
I never got to play the first couple of playstations and so i am allowed any game i want but i have to study and stay in school and be good or my ps3 will be given away.
If people just accepcted games as games and just had fun without having worrying about the content people wouldnt go on killing sprees because they would have fun playing games. But not all kids should have all access it is the parents choice.
Dont judge my parents on this decision of letting me have any game i want because they are great parents who taught me everything i know.
My point is that games should be leaved in their peace and parents should be the ones who choose.
I might be going on but i have a point.
Just think about it, if people were edited one fiftieth of the population would no longer exist for their crimes.
Just an estimate.
I hope the OFLC is taken over by the New Zealand Government.
People wont kill in the real world if games are unedited because killing/torture in games is a stress releaver.
And a thinker before i go:
If New Zealand can have games unedited why cant we???
Please dont judge me.
- Posted by: GTAkid on October 10, 2008 7:51 PM
The only things that were taken out were:
1. You can't choose what kind of sex you want to have with a prostitute when you pick one up
2. When you kill somone, blood doesnt ooze out and there are less blood footprints and tireprints.
Got it off some website. Its not much atleast, but it does P me off a little that australia gets a edited version :(
- Posted by: luke on November 25, 2008 11:23 PM
Can't wait to hear all about it next week - which version did you play Jason? the edited aussie one?
We'll be able to import unedited versions from other PAL places like England right? should be cheaper that way too...