The National Institute on Media and the Family (NIMF), which is a research-based organization on the positive and harmful effects of media on children and youth, has issued a statement on Take-Two Interactive’s decision to “temporarily suspend” distribution of Manhunt 2.
Here is what NIMF had to say about it:
- Take-Two’s decision to temporarily suspend distribution of Manhunt 2 is a victory for parents and children. Because of the their thoughtful decision to give Manhunt 2 its strongest rating, “Adults-Only,” the ESRB has sent a strong message to Take-Two and other game makers that they no longer can push the envelope on gratuitous violence in video games. The ESRB showed real leadership in assigning this rating and further evidence it is making significant progress in keeping extremely violent and graphic materials out of children’s hands.
The National Institute on Media and the Family has indicated that the Manhunt 2 experience will make sure that Take-Two’s future games including Grand Theft Auto IV would be suitable for families and gamers. They also said that they will continue to work with ESRB. NIMF also feels that Wii’s uniqueness gives game raters a new challenge when it comes to FPS games.