Violent Video Game Debate: Where Do We Go From Here?

28.06.2011
For both sides in the war over whether children should be allowed to play violent video games, today's U.S. Supreme Court decision on the issue seems to be an important battle but not the end of the war.

The ruling means that . The question now is where does this leave the debate over these types of games? And what's next for politicians and activists on both sides?

"For today we're disappointed, for tomorrow there are some opportunities," says Alan Simpson, VP of policy for , an advocacy group concerned with children's use of media. Simpson said that there were some signs in the ruling that a similar law aimed at the same issue that addressed the concerns of the court might still be approved.

Video game advocates were more skeptical on the possibility of a similar law being found constitutional. Michael D. Gallagher, president of the Electronic Software Association said "It is time for elected officials to stop wasting time and public funds seeking unconstitutional restrictions on video games. Instead, we invite them to join with us to raise awareness and use of the highly effective tools that already exist to help that parents choose games suitable for their children."

Sean Bersell, VP of Public Affairs for the went even further. "I think that the Supreme Court decision today really put the kibosh on this type of legislation where you have an outright restriction on minor's access to video games based on their violent content," but he was quick to note that the battle wasn't over yet. Bersell said that he expects the bill's original sponsor, California State Senator Leland Yee, to craft a new approach to similar legislation, but Bursell added that he wasn't sure yet what exactly Senator Yee's strategy would be.