After first getting pissed, demanding that Resistance be pulled from stores, asking Japan to join the fight, threatening a lawsuit and insisting that Resistance not be nominated for a British Academy Video Game Award, the Anglican Church has finally forgiven Sony. Keep in mind, this is after Sony apologised to the Church of England and the people of Manchester for using Manchester Cathedral without permission — something that Sony was legally able to do. The Dean of Manchester Cathedral, the Very Reverend Rogers Govender has this very snide comment:
I think some important lessons have been learnt. So we do forgive Sony for what they have done, even though they still believe they have done nothing wrong. In an industry that is breaking new frontiers, it is important that long held traditions of film and television are maintained. These traditions include having courtesy, respecting the dignity of your subject, and admitting when mistakes have been made. In so many ways Sony have failed to live up to these standards by disrespecting people of faith and the victims of gun crime here in Manchester.
Lessons learned? Like what, not accepting apologies and beating a dead horse? In an odd way, Manchester Cathedral even has benefited somewhat from the brouhaha, since visitors to Manchester Cathedral have increased. Church Accepts Apology [BBC, Thanks SPni!] More »
It seems like money and apologies aren’t enough to satisfy the great Church of England. BBC News is reporting that the Dean of Manchester Cathedral is calling for arch nemesis Resistance: Fall of Man to be removed from a list of games that have been nominated for a British Academy Video Games Award after an unsuccessful bid to have the game removed from th UK’s store shelves. Says the Dean:
It is a disgrace that Resistance: Fall of Man has been shortlisted… Sony has admitted that they did not have permission to film or use Manchester Cathedral in their computer game… BAFTA should not be seen condoning such behaviour unless they are saying it is acceptable for producers to walk into historic buildings and film interiors – ignoring contracts, rights and liability.
BAFTA (British Academy of Film and Television Arts) has stated that the award which Resistance is up for, the PC World Gamers’ Award, is public voted. Although they didn’t say it outright, I’m assuming this means they are absolving themselves from any responsibility in the matter and basically telling the Church to take a hike. This final bit from the Dean of Manchester Cathedral, however, is priceless:
(The Dean) then called on Sony to abide by new “sacred digital guidelines” as he feared other buildings would be cloned for “virtual desecration”.
Sacred digital guidelines? Wow… just, wow. Sounds like something a certain Florida lawyer might come up with…
Church criticises gun game award [BBC News]
[Thanks, HellblazerUSA] More »
