Rockstar has issued a statement on the subject of having to edit Grand Theft Auto IV to comply with the Australian game ratings system, taking a sly pop at it in the process.

The lack of an R 18+ rating in Australia prompted Rockstar to produce an edited version of GTA IV to ensure it will comply with the specifications of the MA15+ rating, the highest available to games. Other media can be granted an R 18+ rating in Australia.

Although Rockstar tells us of the Australian ratings board, "We strongly support the OFLC (Office of Film and Literature Classification) and will continue to work within their guidelines", it also kicks the same organisation. The statement goes on, "however we believe the government needs to bring games in line with other media by introducing an R18+ rating, or edits to games will continue to be necessary. We encourage consumers to let their politicians know that they support an R18+ rating for games."

The OFLC's website simply tells us, "There is no R 18+ or X18+ classification category for computer games." No explanation as to why is given.

Rockstar may have the option to release an unedited version in the future, however. The Australian government has decided to open a period of public consultation on whether games should be allowed an R 18+ rating. Victorian state deputy Premier and Attorney General, Rob Hulls, acknowledged, "At the moment, Australia is out of step with the rest of the developed world on this issue".

Australian gamers angry at not being allowed to see the full, unedited version of GTA IV can read Rockstar's full statement on the subject below.



^{Statement via iTwire}