Rockstar calls for 18 rating in Australia

Following the decision to make cuts to the Australian release of Grand Theft Auto IV, Rockstar has said that it's time to introduce an R18+ rating in the region.

The developer has worked with Australia's Office of Film and Literature Classification and edited content in the forthcoming game to ensure an MA15+ rating – the highest for a game in the region.

"We strongly support the OFLC and will continue to work within their guidelines; however we believe the government needs to bring games in line with other media by introducing an R18+ rating, or edits to games will continue to be necessary," said Rockstar in a statement.

"We encourage consumers to let their politicians know that they support an R18+ rating for games," added the developer.

In February this year, the federal government in Australia admitted it is considering an R-rating for videogames, a move that would be welcomed by the development and publishing communities.

Rockstar has also reassured consumers in the region that any cuts or edits made to Grand Theft Auto IV have not changed the game significantly, and the quality of the game experience has not been compromised.

"While there are some minor differences between the Australian and US/EU versions, they are not significant and we do not believe they take away from the level of scope and detail that make GTA IV such an incredible experience," said the company.

"We would not release the game in Australia if we believed these differences compromised the quality of the game in any way."