GTA 6 now banned in Tajikistan alongside Counter-Strike

GTA fans in Tajikistan recently received some heartbreaking news, as the country has now decided to ban video games that depict immoral and violent acts. This means that the Grand Theft Auto series, including the upcoming GTA 6 along with Counter-Strike, has been banned, citing negative influence on young people engaging with these games.

“According to the historical and cultural expertise of the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Tajikistan, the games "COUNTER STRIKE" and "GRAND THEFT AUTO" (GTA) contain elements of violence, murder and robbery,” the official statement said.

The authorities also asked the parents to prevent their children from accessing these types of games. The police will also be conducting regular raids to verify that the law is being followed.

Counter Strike & GTA have been BANNED in Tajikistan ⛔️

Computer game clubs have been forbidden from distributing the games, justification being they "contain scenes of violence, murder, and robbery” pic.twitter.com/jtI5RfQRqt

— Ozzny (@Ozzny_CS2) November 2, 2024

“Law enforcement analysis also shows that unfortunately, some young people, who regularly engage in such games, are negatively influenced and commit various crimes. In connection with this, the Department of the Interior of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the city. Dushanbe demands from all owners of such centers not to allow the distribution of these games from now on,” the statement further added.

Video game controversy

Video game bans are not something uncommon. Many countries have banned several popular games due to historical depiction or ethical reasons as mentioned above. Games like Call of Duty, Medal of Honor, and PUBG are banned in Pakistan.

Also Read: Why are games like Call of Duty, PUBG and Medal of Honor banned in Pakistan?

Most recently, Kuwait banned the sale of COD Black Ops 6 as the country was depicted in the game during the Gulf War. Often, if the issue is in a particular segment of the game, the developers usually make changes to resume sales.

However, that does depend on the sale potential in the country and how much of the change needs to be done. As for Counter-Strike and Grand Theft Auto, There can be nothing done that will justify an unban, although many people will likely call this action an overreaction at a time when there is nothing political to talk about.