It took 12 years, but Grand Theft Auto 5 is now legal in Saudi Arabia
After 12 years, GTA 5's legal status in Saudi Arabia marks a significant shift in gaming culture. The game, now rated 21+, can be sold unmodified, signaling a potential easing of restrictions on other titles. - This approval may boost sales, yet it raises questions about censorship and cultural acceptance in a conservative society. - The previous bans on games like Final Fantasy 16 highlight the challenges publishers face in the region. While this is a step forward, it also brings to light the ongoing issues of human rights and the motivations behind the government's push for gaming. Expectations for more titles to follow suit are high, but the implications of this change remain complex and layered.