In 1997, it was "Carmageddon" (in which you earned points by plowing down pedestrians with your car) and "Postal" (a kill-'em-all shooter) that ruffled feathers. 2002 saw "BMX XXX", which featured video footage of strippers as part of the game. And, of course, there's the ongoing "Grand Theft Auto" franchise, which has been the focus for gaming industry opponents since its breakthrough into the mainstream in 2001.
Later this year, struggling publisher Midway will attempt to shock and awe with its remake of the 1990 arcade classic "N.A.R.C." Its timing, though, couldn't be worse – and could have long-term ramifications on the industry.
The original "N.A.R.C." cast you as a futuristic cop, shooting (and occasionally arresting) the bad guys. When dealers dropped dime bags or wads of cash, you'd navigate your character over the contraband and earn points. It wouldn't ping the radar today, but was edgy stuff for the time.
The basic premise of the game hasn't changed. You're still a cop and you're still looking to take out the dealers and suppliers. And, odds are you'll pick up the cash and drugs scattered about once again. The hook is: In the new "N.A.R.C.", your character can – and is, in fact, encouraged to – ingest those drugs.
Looking to slow time around you – a la "The Matrix" or "Max Payne"? Take a toke. Marijuana puts you into "weed time." Not sure who the bad guys are? Drop some LSD and enemies will appear to have giant devil heads. Moving too slow? A little speed will take care of that, letting you zip around and fight at an incredibly fast pace.
"Entertainment is growing up," said Midway spokesperson Reilly Brennan. "I know this is a sensitive topic these days, but this is what people want to see. Look at TV: People love The Sopranos, The Shield, Nip/Tuck. That's what people are watching. ... We're not trying to glamorize drugs in any way and we're not trying to promote the use of them."
News source: CNN
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