First-person military shooters Call of Duty: Black Ops II and Medal of Honor: Warfighter have been banned by Pakistan starting today. The bans comes into effect after complaints from retailers that they portray a negative image of Pakistan, mainly as breeding grounds and training camps for terrorists.

A notice was released by the APCDACTM (!) (All Pakistan CD, DVD, Audio Cassette Traders and Manufacturers Association) to boycott both with immediate effect. The circular, written in Urdu, and translated by Fox News, reads, “The Association has always boycotted these types of films and games. These (games) have been developed against the country’s national unity and sanctity. The games (“Medal of Honor: Warfighter” and “Call of Duty: Black Ops II”) have been developed against Pakistan, and the association has completely banned their sale. Shopkeepers are warned and will be responsible for the consequences if found purchasing or selling these games.”

Headquartered in Karachi, APCDACTM’s president Mr. Saleem Memon, has been receiving numerous complaints about the content of these games in the past, prompting him to act, “The problem is that there are things that are against Pakistan and they have included criticism of our army. They show the country in a very poor light.”

This might just be another diplomatic blow in America’s summit to be on good books with Pakistan, because it gives them a good strategic advantage against China. The US will definitely have to be more sensitive to subjects such as these. It is claimed that Medal of Honor: Warfighter was developed with the help of the Navy Seal 6 team, who were involved in the Operation Neptune Spear, who’s mission was to kill the leader of Al Queda. There’s no denying that MOH: Warfighter might be a tab correct in its visual implementation.
What’s funny though is why Pakistan has been so late to react to this. It seems there is no proper screening and regulations when it comes to Video Games, which, in a country like Pakistan, is still reserved amongst the upper middle-class or the super rich.
From a neutral’s point of view, I’m more than excited to see how this effects decision making in the country. Its so damn controversial that its fun! Enjoy!
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When not being the Editor-in-Chief at iLLGaming or a tech journalist that he is known for, Sahil indulges himself with his pug named Tony. His favorite games are Dota 2, Dark Souls, Deus Ex and DOOM. He is sucker for PC builds and dreams about benchmark numbers in his sleep.

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