Dec 5, 2007

The ten most dangerous games, as called by US group National Institute on Media and the Family, have been revealed. Though it's probably a little too late for the Christmas spending frenzy that's already in full swing…

The list has been designed to help parents decide what games are appropriate for their children, just in case they can't see the massive 'M For Mature' rating on the box.

"There's an endless stream of new games that will never be suitable for children," said Rep. Betty McCollum. Could that be because adults like games too?

The report also took a stab at retailers, parents and the entire industry, citing "growing complacency" among game retailers, parents and the gaming industry on ratings and enforcing them.

"Unfortunately, we're seeing some steps backwards," said institute president David Walsh. As if he was doing anything to help.

But the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) stepped up as official defenders of the faith: "At a time of year when parents are looking for helpful guidance about video games, this year's report card does little more than sow unwarranted doubt about effective tools like ESRB ratings," says ESRB president Patricia Vance.

Above: Why wouldn't you buy this game for your 8 year-old?

Here’s the official blacklist. Note that all of them are clearly rated M for Mature:

• Assassin's Creed
• Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare
• Conan
• The Darkness
• Clive Barker's Jericho
• Kane & Lynch: Dead Men
• Manhunt 2
• Resident Evil: The Umbrella Chronicles
• John Woo Presents Stranglehold
• Timeshift

Courtesy of CVG.