Opinion on the Video Game Voters Network?

[Squeaksx]

My friend presented a few arguments against them, arguments that I think are actually reasonable to consider. His over-arching argument was that the organization (an astro-turf organization created by the ESA), was functioning under the 'guise as something of a populist movement. Transforming the battle from an industry v.s. state legislature into a the people v.s. state government battle. I did notice that a few of the articles they published on their news feed engaged in hyperbole (such as "Is your state?s attorney general on the wrong side of free speech?" http://videogamevotersnetwork.com/blog/entry/is_your_states_attorney_general_on_the_wrong_side_of_free_speech ). What are your opinions on the matter? Please, if you're going to simply engage in attacks on my friend's character or my own then I'd rather you refrain from posting.

 

[Gyrefalcon]

Well, I don't know what else it could be but people letting their voices be heard in order to allow the legislature know that "the people" like their video games just fine. I mean, what else would you have? And what else would be the point?

I'm still being cautious about joining, but the original video game crowd is over 40-50 years old now. It's well anchored into culture and it isn't "just for kids" any more than anime is. So it is well past time that the legislature realized that video games, like movies, are for all age groups and all genres and those who do not want to see overly-violent (or whatever) games simply need not buy them. (Seems like that would be like continuously buying roses when you are allergic to them just to complain about it.)

Mostly, I think it is good that you and your friend are looking carefully before leaping as well. Gamers do want to be heard but you want to be sure of the message before adding your voice. Good for you and your friend both.

 

[Nolanp01]

When I signed up with them, I already knew it was exactly that so I didn't much care. The overall concept of it was decent and fair, that being said I doubt it will take on a large following and I've since then only followed it with minimal attention.

But that being said, the ESA's views on gaming does align with mine and so yes, they are a large corporation with us gamers being their consumers, but that doesn't make their viewpoint any less valid. Games are basically a creative form of animated storytelling, if they decide to defend the product that they are focused around, good for them.

 

[Squeaksx]

When I signed up with them, I already knew it was exactly that so I didn't much care. The overall concept of it was decent and fair, that being said I doubt it will take on a large following and I've since then only followed it with minimal attention.

But that being said, the ESA's views on gaming does align with mine and so yes, they are a large corporation with us gamers being their consumers, but that doesn't make their viewpoint any less valid. Games are basically a creative form of animated storytelling, if they decide to defend the product that they are focused around, good for them.

As long as you have educated yourself on the various aspects of the organization and believe you align with its views then power to you.