The iconic video game Postal 2, developed by Running With Scissors and released in 2003, has once again become the subject of controversy following the decision of the New Zealand Film and Literature Classification Office. This title, famous for its extreme violence and offensive humor, has been banned in the oceanic country, where it has been determined that the possession and sale of the game is illegal.
A controversial game
According to the official report issued by the New Zealand office, Postal 2 is designed to allow players to inflict violence and humiliation on others, which led to the game’s rating as offensive to human rights. The authorities have established severe penalties: those caught with a copy of the game may face a fine of 1,400 New Zealand dollars, and those who distribute or display it could face up to a year in prison.
The analysis by the rating body did not hold back in its descriptions, characterizing the game’s humor as “rude, racist, sexist, and homophobic,” pointing to its treatment of various communities, including homosexuals, Asians, and Muslims. This decision has surprised Vince Desi, founder of Running With Scissors, who expressed his astonishment at the severity of the imposed sanctions.
Despite the ban in New Zealand, Postal 2 remains available on platforms like Steam, where players in other parts of the world can purchase it for less than 10 euros. The paradox of its situation invites reflection on the balance between freedom of expression in entertainment and social responsibility regarding potentially harmful content.
Within the gamer community, interest in Postal 2 has resurfaced over the years, raising the question of whether its notoriety and censorship in some countries will influence its future, particularly in an environment where the boundaries of satire and offensiveness are constantly being debated.
