A new video game titled “Fight of Gods” has stirred up controversy by pitting religious figures Jesus Christ and Gautama Buddha against each other.
Despite the growing popularity of the newly-released fighting game, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) as well as religious leaders in Malaysia have condemned the divine brawler.
“Fight of Gods” is created by Taiwanese studio Digital Crafter and published by PQube. Datuk Seri Dr Salleh Said Keruak said that the controversial game not only poses as a threat to racial unity and harmony, the content is also an offence under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.
As a result, there has been a request to disable download for “Fight of Gods” for Malaysian users within 24 hours. “It is in the public interest to ensure that immediate steps are taken so that such contents do not continue to harm others. Malaysians respect all cultural and religious sensitivities, and the sale and distribution of the religiously insensitive and blasphemous games must be stopped immediately,” Salleh was quoted by The Star as saying.
A description of “Fight of Gods” on gaming platform Steam reads:
“Your prayers have been answered! For the first time ever, gods, holy spirits and mythological characters from around the globe and throughout history will clash in an explosive 2D fighter where the entire world is at stake! Who will emerge victorious from the most destructive combat tournament the universe has ever witnessed?”
Besides Jesus and Buddha, other fight characters include Japanese sun goddess Amaterasu, Greek Pantheon leader Zeus, Egyptian god of death Anubis, and the Norse god Odin. Fans of the game have also requested for Prophet Muhammad to be included as a playable character. See how this could be problematic?
Here’s a short preview:
Do y’all think this controversial video game should be banned? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Sources: Lowyat.NET, Bernama, The Star / Featured image: Steam.
