Another moral video game argument: Michael Grade criticizes EA

Even when Jack Thompson isn’t in the driver seat, people still have something to say about the moral issues regarding video games. In one corner we have Michael Grade, executive chairman of UK’s ITV broadcasting network, and in the other we have Electronic Arts‘ CEO John Riccitiello sniping comments at each other regarding video game violence.

Michael Grade was noted criticizing that video games existed in a “moral vacuum” compared to the stronger moral standpoint in which television delivers it video content “within the framework of a dramatic narrative.”

While Riccitiello conceded to Grade’s point, he also commented saying that the media has always been unfair in their judgement about video games, and that TV was no better when it came to the violent films and programs shown on primetime. He cited examples such as television shows 24 and CSI, and films including Kill Bill and 300. All of which are comparable to, if not exceed, the violence level of famous games like Grand Theft Auto.

Riccitiello then advised people that both industries can still work together, bringing entertainment to their respective markets while, at the same time, be responsible with the way their material is being handed out to the public. He was also quoted saying: “With video games, I can be on the edge of my seat immersed in them, but TV is storytelling – I’m lying back and it comes to me.”

Even when Jack Thompson isn’t in the driver seat, people still have something to say about the moral issues regarding video games. In one corner we have Michael Grade, executive chairman of UK’s ITV broadcasting network, and in the other we have Electronic Arts‘ CEO John Riccitiello sniping comments at each other regarding video game violence.

Michael Grade was noted criticizing that video games existed in a “moral vacuum” compared to the stronger moral standpoint in which television delivers it video content “within the framework of a dramatic narrative.”

While Riccitiello conceded to Grade’s point, he also commented saying that the media has always been unfair in their judgement about video games, and that TV was no better when it came to the violent films and programs shown on primetime. He cited examples such as television shows 24 and CSI, and films including Kill Bill and 300. All of which are comparable to, if not exceed, the violence level of famous games like Grand Theft Auto.

Riccitiello then advised people that both industries can still work together, bringing entertainment to their respective markets while, at the same time, be responsible with the way their material is being handed out to the public. He was also quoted saying: “With video games, I can be on the edge of my seat immersed in them, but TV is storytelling – I’m lying back and it comes to me.”