Parental group Mothers Against Drunk Driving has launched an onslaught of criticism against Rockstar’s Grand Theft Auto IV this week, expressing its concerns over the fact the game allows players to drive vehicles whilst under the influence of alcohol.
The group said it is “extremely disappointed” that the game boosts a virtual representation of drunk driving, pointing out that the offence has been known to claim up to 13,500 lives every year.
"Drunk driving is not a game and it is not a joke," MADD commented. "Drunk driving is a choice, a violent crime, and it is also 100 percent preventable."
Furthermore, the group is also insisting that the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) raise GTA IV’s rating to Adults Only (AO) as opposed to Mature (M).
MADD also requested that the game’s "manufacturer" consider preventing all distribution of the title out of respect for individuals whose lives have been affected by drunk drivers.
Grand Theft Auto IV is available now on PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360.