Call of Duty Takes a Different Path: Avoiding Controversy with Torture Scenes

by Frank McDougall
in Featured, News, PC
on 23 June 2024

While fans of GTA 5 were divided over the game’s controversial “By the Book” mission, it is interesting to note that Call of Duty has managed to escape similar criticism despite featuring several instances of torture. If Rockstar plans on including any torture-related gameplay in the upcoming GTA 6, they might have to reconsider.

The “By the Book” mission in GTA 5 sees Michael and Trevor attempting to extract information from a suspected terrorist named Mr. K. Trevor, in particular, utilizes a range of disturbing tools to achieve this goal, including beating the victim and electrocuting him. Unsurprisingly, this level of violence garnered significant backlash and scrutiny.

On the other hand, Call of Duty has a history of portraying torture within its games. In Modern Warfare 3, players assume the role of Yuri, who, alongside Captain Price and Soap MacTavish, partakes in the “Blood Brothers” mission that involves the brutal torture of an enemy combatant named Waraabe. The infamous “No Russian” mission in Modern Warfare 2 also sparked controversy, as players participate in a terrorist attack at a Russian airport resulting in the mass killing of civilians.

Considering GTA 6’s open-world setting filled with gangsters, mafias, and corrupt law enforcement, it wouldn’t be surprising if the game featured a similarly gruesome mission. However, it would be prudent for Rockstar to tread carefully and possibly offer players the option to skip such scenes, while also toning down excessive violence to appeal to a wider audience.

It’s worth noting that Call of Duty managed to avoid significant objections despite crossing moral boundaries with its torture depictions. Rockstar, therefore, needs to approach sensitive content cautiously in order to maintain a positive reception for their games.

What are your thoughts on the torture scene in GTA 5? And do you believe GTA 6 might include similar content? Share your opinions in the comments below.

Additional facts not mentioned in the article:

1. Call of Duty is a highly successful video game franchise known for its realistic depictions of military combat.

2. The Call of Duty series has faced controversy in the past for its portrayal of violence, including torture scenes.

3. The “No Russian” mission in Modern Warfare 2, where players participate in a terrorist attack, received widespread criticism for its graphic content.

4. The inclusion of torture scenes in video games has been a contentious issue, with some arguing that it glorifies and normalizes violence.

Key questions and answers:

1. How has Call of Duty managed to avoid significant objections despite featuring torture scenes?

Call of Duty has likely avoided significant objections due to its focus on military combat and the portrayal of characters involved in warfare. The game’s context and storyline might mitigate criticism by framing torture as a necessary evil in the context of war.

2. Will GTA 6 include similar torture scenes?

It is difficult to say for certain whether GTA 6 will include similar content. Rockstar Games, the developer of GTA, has a history of pushing boundaries and including controversial content in their games. However, they may also be mindful of the potential backlash and controversy that could arise from including explicit torture scenes.

Key challenges or controversies associated with the topic:

One key challenge associated with the topic is striking a balance between creative expression and avoiding unnecessary controversy. Game developers face the challenge of addressing mature themes and controversial subjects while also considering the potential impact on players and public perception of their games.

Advantages and disadvantages:

Advantages of including torture scenes in video games may include the ability to tell a more immersive and gritty story, enhancing the player’s emotional engagement with the narrative. It can also provide a platform for exploring complex moral and ethical dilemmas.

Disadvantages of including torture scenes can include triggering or traumatizing players, normalizing violence, and perpetuating negative stereotypes. Additionally, controversy surrounding sensitive content can lead to negative media attention and potential backlash from the gaming community.