Blizzard has forcibly disbanded a World of Warcraft guild that engages in erotic roleplaying and has been accused of defending paedophiles.

The guild, going by the name of Abhorrent Taboo, engages in simulations of extreme sexual situations within the game and apparently takes no precautions to ensure its members are over 18. It claims that it has been reported on numerous occasions but does not violate Blizzard policy.

Despite that, Blizzard has disbanded the guild, with employee Verrith writing in the WoW forums, "This matter is not one Blizzard takes lightly in any way, shape or form, and we do not wish to have this topic continue circulation".

The guild leader has reportedly said, "I want to defend us, but I also want to defend the pedosexual community." The leader pointed out that she was referring to paedophiles who do not actively molest children.

The guild leader's welcome message to the group (which now appears to have been removed from the WoW forums) aggressively defends the group, stating:



In fact, the guild's activities might be considered illegal as an incitement to unlawful activity. Opponents of the group hold that since Blizzard allows under-18s into World of Warcraft, it has a responsibility to ensure their safety. Stopping them joining guilds such as Abhorrent Taboo is extremely difficult at best, however.

Blizzard has shown that it has, in spite of the guild leader's claim, been able to do something about it in disbanding the guild. The members, however, have reformed as Vile Anathema.

Blizzard employee Verrith has said, " ... Let it finally be said that we appreciate those of you who brought this particular issue to our attention and that we will continue to follow up with this matter in the future to ensure the safety of all parties concerned." Whether this means we will see the new guild disbanded, however, remains to be seen.

Second Life came under fire with similar allegations earlier this year in Germany, where virtual sex with minors involved is illegal.

Legalities of what the guild does aside, Blizzard is entirely within its rights to ban the group as owners of World of Warcraft.

Besides everything else, Abhorrent Taboo is certainly not helping the games industry as it faces governmental reviews and attempts at censorship.

Let us know what you think in the Forum.

^{Source: WoW Insider}