In Germany edition of games, previously, no Nazi symbol was used. The symbols include Swastika sign, moustache of Adolf Hitler, etc. The rule has finally changed. The German Entertainment Software Self Regulation (USK) has resolved to lift ban from all future German edition games. However, each and every case will ve separately dealt with. The blanket ban has been removed finally from Hitler’s moustache and the Nazi symbol of Swastika. Before, use of such symbols were presumed to be unconstitutional. Hence such anti-constitutional approaches were discouraged and were against the law. The games will come in sync with other fields of art forms. According to German law, Nazi symbols can be used in films and other “art or science, research or teaching” materials.
Before this lift on ban, restrictions on usage of Nazi symbols compelled game companies to use triangles instead of Swastika sign. And Hitler’s Moustache could not be used in any circumstances. Besides, the character of the Hitler was referred to as chancellor instead of Führer as is the case in the international version of the game.
Elisabeth Secker, USK’s managing director, said this in a statement:
“Through the change in the interpretation of the law, games that critically looks at current affairs can, for the first time, be given an age rating by the USK. This has long been the case for films and with regards to the freedom of the arts, this is now rightly also the case with computer and video games. … [USK judges will decide if content] has an artistic or scientific purpose, or helps to depict current or historical events.”
The trailer of an upcoming game Wolfenstein:Youngblood was released in June when the restriction was still there . Now we wonder if the company will be revamping the game.
