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Microsoft: Byron regulations may make games more expensive in UK


We sense a pattern developing. Neil Thompson, Microsoft's UK regional director for Entertainment and Devices Devision, is "concerned" that the implementation of the Byron Review recommendations may increase the cost of games for consumers in the UK. This comes days after EA's Keith Ramsdale said the review's ideas could delay the release of games in the region.

The Byron Review recommends all games that'll receive a 12+ certification need to be evaluated by the British Board of Film Classification; only games flagged to have sex, violence or criminal activity currently receive the review. The industry is fighting the Byron recommendation so it can avoid the extra costs incurred by a BBFC review. Thompson goes on to endorse the publisher-supported PEGI system as a reasonable response to the Byron Review recommendations. Well, we've now heard from two bears, one more complaint and we should unlock the "Goldilocks Achievement."