While browsing the google search engine for interesting article to read about VR. A head line caught my attention. STEAM STORE TO SELL VR PORN VIDEO GAMES IN ‘JAW-DROPPING’ DECISION published on The Independent, a British newspaper site.
The article discuss how consumers are having mix feeling on Steam hosting or allowing controversial and edgy content to sell on their platform. This topic is controversial and spreadable because it “… spark intense disagreement among those who encounter it, especially in term of conflicting values and judgement”(Spreadable Media, 2013).
It is great that a major video game and software distributor like Steam to allow creators the freedom to publish basically anything legal including VR porn and controversial content. They have to know that some content are just inappropriate and untimely. VR porn is okay because they have an age requirement system to keep little Timmy away but a School Shooting Simulation is a low blow to the affected community. With the recent event of shooting in Texas and Florida, it is understandable for people to be against the policy.
I give Steam props for pushing the boundary but at least keep it tasteful. The adult industry are in way improving and supporting the VR industry. Since SteamVR is one of the main Virtual reality platform. Getting the backing of a million dollar industry is not a bad move to help develop technology.
But seriously, a game simulating a school shooting at this time is not even funny.
Into The Abyss 