| Realtime Worlds studio manager Colin MacDonald claims the motion tabled by Labour MSP Elaine Smith is “sensationalist” — and could be harmful to the Scottish gaming industry.
Ms Smith asked the parliament to recognise the “negative effects” such games could have on the emotional and psychological development of children.
However Colin MacDonald responded, “Research has found no proof violent video games are linked to problems in children.
“The video gaming industry contributes a significant amount of money to the treasury each year and is particularly important in Dundee.
“It’s very worrying the violent aspect in a small minority of video games is being treated by some politicians in such a sensationalist manner.”
Mr MacDonald confirmed he had worked with Dundee West MSP, Joe FitzPatrick, on an amendment to the motion.
This is aimed at encouraging the Scottish Parliament to celebrate the leading role Scotland plays in the video games development sector and to recognise most games are suitable for children — with only 3% currently classified as being for over 18s only. It also urges retailers to be responsible when selling games.
Mr MacDonald continued, “As is the case with books and films there are going to be games which are not suitable for children and that is why they are classified with 15 and 18 ratings — but this has to be taken into context.
“We’re certainly behind the principal of encouraging the government to work with retailers to prevent violent games getting into the hand of kids.
“However, this should be handled in a sensitive way and one which will not affect an industry which is an important part of the economy.”
Mr FitzPatrick said yesterday he felt Ms Smith’s motion was “unnecessarily hostile” to the industry, which employs hundreds of people in Dundee.
The city is currently home to 12 of Scotland’s biggest games developers.
He added, “I am very keen to promote Dundee’s world-leading video game development sector and I am concerned this is an unwarranted attack.” |
