The Iran National Foundation of Computer Games supported by the conglomerate Dubai Index Holding announced during the Dubai World Game Expo on November 29, the implementation of the new classification system of video games ESRA (Entertainment Software Rating Association).
Like the American SOFTware Rating Board (Entertainment Software Rating) or the PEGI (Pan European Game Information), the Iranian classification is done in age groups. But the novelty lies not only in the fact that the number of age groups is six, with a category +18 and another +25 to differentiate the single adult from the married adult, but also that the system is no longer secular but takes into account the precepts of Islam. Thus, the games will be classified according to the respect of Muslim social and religious values.
The ESRA, which is the result of the work of a team of 17 psychologists and 8 sociologists, is presented as a potential indicator for parents but also for video game companies, helping them to know if the game is in line with Muslim values, and does not violate any of the Muslim traditions of Muslim countries.
Among the titles Dores-et-Déjà prohibited by ESRA, there are Assassin’s Creed II, Grand Theft Auto 4, Batman Arkham Asylum or titles like NBA 2K10, Tiger Woods 10, Sega Sports Tennis, Coraline and even the Princess and the Disney Frog!
The question that arises now is whether Tunisia will adopt this new classification. But does the latter really have a meaning when you know that three-quarters of the acquired games have been hacked?
