Close Range

I guess you could say I’ve been a “gamer” since the 8-bit days, when Super Mario Bros. became the coolest foreign stereotypes since Tony Montana and Manny Ribera.  The video game landscape has changed quite a bit since that time due to advances in technology, and although I don’t play with my joystick as much as I did back in the day, there are still times when I unleash the inner nerd for hours on end.  One of the most noticeable differences in gaming now as opposed to 20 years ago (besides graphics) is the popularity, and prevalence of violent  – what some might call “morally reprehensible” - games like Grand Theft Auto.  I will admit that the first time I played this game, I almost felt bad for having so much fun while doing such despicable things; yet contrary to what some oblivious watchdog groups believe, I never once contemplated actually picking up a hooker, carjacking someone at rocket launcher point, and then leading police on a high speed chase that would make that scene from Ronin look like a game of Mario Kart.  I have never been one of those people who believed that the violent video games which fill stores today are to blame for any of our society’s many ills.  However, I caught a glimpse of some new first person shooter today that is sure to be the most controversial game to hit the market since Ethnic Cleansing - and from the looks of it, video game makers may have finally gone past the boundaries of good taste.  I am not saying Close Range doesn’t have all the makings of a best-selling, award-winning game, but something about it is too macabre even for me:

The Onion News Network gives viewers a point-blank look at the new game:

Official site for Close Range