A new, censored version of Fallout 3 has been approved by the Office of Film and Literature Classification.
While the explicit use of a proscribed drug (morphine) was the OFLC’s main sticking point with the unedited game, it would appear that drug use has not been purged from the game completely — Fallout 3 has been rated ‘MA15+ Strong violence, drug references and coarse language.’
Red Ant is not willing to discuss what exactly was pruned from the game at this time, but did supply us with the following statement:
“We are happy that the game has been classified by the OFLC and that it will be releasing in Australia.”
The information available suggests that the changes are probably quite minor, perhaps as simple as swapping out the word ‘morphine’ for some made-up drug. ‘Pain-Away’, perhaps.
Regardless, it is a great relief to Aussie gamers that the game has been cleared for sale. Of course, this whole rigmarole could have been avoided if there was an R18+ rating for games in the first place.
Thanks again to the thousands of gameplayer readers who signed our petition to save Fallout 3 — until Australians have the freedom to play the games we choose, public outcry will be a necessary weapon in our fight for change.
