Thailand's ridiculous crackdown on videogames continues apace, with the country's authorities devising yet more ways in which they can ruin everybody's fun. Concerned now about "addiction" instead of violence, Culture Ministry officials are toying with the idea of a curfew on youngsters in online game stores.
If the new guidelines go ahead, children under the age of fifteen would only be allowed in such venues until 8pm. Those teenagers up to the age of eighteen would be allowed to stay until 10pm. Any store that violates this curfew would have its license suspended or revoked, basically turning online games into the new alcohol.
Yet again, Thailand hides behind videogames as a way to exert more control over its people, something which it has steadily been doing for over a year now. Incredibly worrying stuff, especially as officials seem to be able to do what they want with impugnity. No amount of social control will stop people being stupid ... but I think the people in charge know that.
Jim Sterling serves as reviews editor for Destructoid.com, head of the Podtoid podcast, and produces a number of news stories, original features, one-of-a-kind videos. With his passionate argumentative style, controversial opinions, harsh delivery, and dedication to brutal honesty Sterling is a name that you can't help but recognize.
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Contest:
9:00 PM on 07.22.2009
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"Hi i'm spencer, and i couldn't stop playing games"
There are internet cafes everywhere and kids spend hours every day in there playing online games. To be honest I don't think that's particularly healthy either, and I'm someone who grew up doing it.
I don't support Thailand's agenda but I do think there's something to be said for limiting game time for kids who don't understand that they could be doing something more productive instead.
but China's internet cafes are all 24 hours. You don't see many kids during late hours anyway
Make sure all the games are in "English and bad English" then they'll pick up the language quicker too. Then they can ship out and let the ppl in charge rot and let those who don't see a problem enjoy the crackdowns.
Trust me man they got nothing on the subcontinent in terms of craziness. Nothing. We own it.