Dead Island: Not Suitable For The Sensitive Germans
A ban is usually followed by some intense reactions from both sides. When Dead Island became banned in Germany recently, the developer and the publisher are not that concerned. Apparently, Germany has already established itself as uptight when it comes to videogame regulations.
Just think back to Activision’s 2009 German release of Wolfenstein. The game was banned because of a single and not so visible swastika in the game. Germany does not allow Nazi-related symbols because of their controversial and painful past. A rep from Techland, the studio behind Dead Island, said that the ban “isn’t unexpected” and that “Germany has its unique regulations regarding videogames and violence and the industry can only comply. “ Deep Silver and Techland have already entertained the possibility of a ban. Dead Island has been classified as a “List B” game or as a game that is considered to be “youth-endangering media”. The game cannot be legally sold in Germany. The country’s customs will also get hold of any imported copies that they find. The Koch Media Group, which is the parent company of publisher Deep Silver, is a German company. It, however, said that it had not broken any rules.
Screenshot from Dead Island trailer (Credit: Techland)
A rep from Koch Media was quoted saying, “We did not distribute or sell Dead Island in Germany. The intention was to bring the game to the international markets, as the product seems to be better suitable for audiences abroad.” Curious that a German company would want to have a little freedom when it comes to its products but then sells those products elsewhere.
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