There are calls to ban GTA 6
One of the most anticipated games in the gaming world, GTA 6, is making headlines not for its content, but for a political debate, even though its release is still a long way off. Rockstar Games’ new game is being targeted in Russia by some circles who claim it “threatens moral values,” leading to calls for a complete ban or the release of a censored version exclusive to Russia.
Demand for a GTA 6 Ban from Russia
According to reports in the Russian press, Mikhail Ivanov, a member of the Bryansk Regional Duma and Deputy Chairman of the World Russian People’s Council, has raised the issue of banning GTA 6 in Russia, arguing that the game could have negative effects on young people. Ivanov claims that some scenes allegedly included in the game could harm the moral fabric of society.
Ivanov’s statements particularly highlight the popularity of GTA 6. According to him, a game that receives this level of attention cannot be considered just ordinary entertainment. Arguing that content reaching a wide audience has a powerful influence on young people, Ivanov claims that the game could therefore become a “dangerous tool of influence.”
Two different options are being considered: a complete ban on GTA 6 in Russia, or Rockstar Games preparing a country-specific version, purged of controversial content. Ivanov argues that the second option is more realistic, but that it would require serious legal obligations for the publisher.
It remains unclear whether these calls will translate into an official decision or bill. However, Russia has a history of banning or releasing censored versions of certain games. Regarding GTA 6, neither Rockstar Games nor Take-Two Interactive have issued an official statement on the matter. It seems unlikely that the debate will escalate further in the coming period.
