The world of video games is in itself controversial. There are so many myths, legends, and old wife’s tales surrounding the activity that it’s so hard to keep track of it all. What we can keep track of, is the video games that have had the most controversy and backlash surrounding their release.
Some of the games are of a graphic nature, so sensitive readers, be warned.
5 of the world’s most controversial video games
1. Pokémon
While Pokémon games have been designed and created for people of all ages, the creators have been taken to task about some of their creatures in the game, Jynx. Many believed that the creature was racist, satanic, and even resemble blackface.
As a result, the design had to be reworked. Later, in 2016, the rise of Pokémon Go had the game once again in the spotlight as it was deemed dangerous and lead to some serious injuries as a result.
2. Night Trap
This horror game from 1992 is said to resemble something along the lines of a slasher film While it may be tamer than most games today, it was a big deal in the 1990s. With the aim of the game set to prevent the trapping and killing of women, it featured violence and sexual content – although there was no nudity or over the top violence.
This game has since been remastered for PS4 and Xbox One consoles.
3. Doom
While this game is said to be one of the most influential ever made, and although it is relevant in this day and age, it received quite a lot of criticism back in the day. This was due to the graphic, violent content as well as satanic imagery.
4. Bonetown
This PC game followed the journey of a man whose purpose in life was to sleep (to put it lightly) with as many people as possible. The sexist content and juvenile humour received negative reviews.
While the creators sought to create an adult’s only game like online betting sites, they ended up with a PR nightmare.
5. Call of Duty 2: Modern Warfare
This is one of the world’s favourite first-person shooter games and, of course, came with its own set of controversy. The 2009 release of Modern Warfare 2 featured a “No Russian” mission where the player controlled a terrorist in an airport.
This shocking mission even featured a “Disturbing Content Notice” before starting the mission. Russian versions of the game had the mission removed while Japan and Germany had the mission altered to prevent unnecessary deaths.
It’s Not For The Faint-Hearted
Video game creators are always trying to outdo themselves and their competitors with every release – not that we’re complaining. However, in their quest to do so, they often push the limits and set new standards for the gaming industry.