Modern Warfare 2 Map Removed Following Controversy

Activision has removed the Favela multiplayer map from Modern Warfare 2 following complaints from Muslim gamers. The complaints stem from this video uploaded on September 27th, which shows picture frames on the second floor bathroom of one building within Favela. When viewed through a scoped weapon, the frames contain a quote from the Prophet Muhammad that translates to “Allah is beautiful and He loves beauty,” according to Islam Today. One of the paintings is located directly above a toilet.

Until the content can be taken out, Activision has removed Favela from rotation, and an Activision representative provided IGN with the following statement in response to upset fans:

“We apologize to anyone who found this image offensive. Please be assured we were unaware of this issue and that there was no intent to offend. We are working as quickly as possible to remove this image and any other similar ones we may find from our various game libraries. We are urgently working to release a Title Update to remove the texture from Modern Warfare 3. We are also working to remove the texture from Modern Warfare 2 through a separate Title Update. Until the TU is ready, we have removed the Favela multiplayer map from online rotation. Activision and our development studios are respectful of diverse cultures and religious beliefs, and sensitive to concerns raised by its loyal game players. We thank our fans for bringing this to our attention.”

This isn’t the first time religious content has been removed from a game following uproar from gamers, echoing the delay of the original LittleBigPlanet due to song lyrics from the Qur’an in 2008, an issue that has caused continued debates about censorship in the industry as of late. As for Modern Warfare 2, a specific date for when Activision expects the Title Updates to be released has not been revealed, but we’ll update this story if any additional information is announced.

Thanks to Kotaku for the heads up.

Andrew Goldfarb is IGN’s associate news editor. Keep up with pictures of the latest food he’s been eating by following @garfep on Twitter or garfep on IGN.

Source : ign[dot]com