Four senators known for their anti-gaming stance have decided to weigh in on the waning Manhunt 2 controversy by sending a rather pointed letter to the head of the ESRB asking, among other things, that the game’s M rating be reconsidered.

The text of the letter is available from Senator Lieberman’s website.

I think there is a concern about the base issue that bears watching, but I think this flot about Manhunt specifically is just an attempt by someone cash-in for some votes on the made-up problem of the week.

Manhunt’s not the first hard M game for the Wii. We’ve got Godfather Blackhand Edition out there and have had for some time, and I consider it to be much more of an issue. The more realistic violence is reinforced by movies, books, and other mainstream media. The story is such an emphatic symbol it’s immitated in children’s cartoons. I notice none of these people have had a word to say about it.

My kids and I have played Godfather on the Playstation 2 and also on the Wii at my house. And when you actually act the story out with your own hands it’s definately a different level of experience. It does feel a lot more intense, more visceral when you’re actually doing the action than it does when you’re just pushing buttons.

But it doesn’t seem to have caused any issues I’m aware of. At least I haven’t heard of anyone copycatting Luca Brasi in the last several months. Though my backroom gambling operation is doing really well. 😉

That’s a joke, fellas.

The whole question is kind of moot, though. There is no reason for a child to have access to either of these games, whether the ESRB bows to the pressure or not. The M rating means no one under 17 should be exposed to it no matter whether you’re pushing buttons or waving your Wiimote.

Despite the senatorial statements in the letter, no really one knows if this is a problem. And you all already know what it would take to avoid any problems arising. Playing with your child so you know what’s going on, and sticking to the rating.

Tags: Misc