Spec Ops: The Line Already Generating Regional Controversy Over Dubai Setting

Spec Ops: The Line, which you can read all about here, is already creating controversy over its setting in Dubai and the United Arab Emirates is considering banning the game.

When speaking about the game, Mohammed al Mutawa, a videogame censor at UAE’s Nation Media Council, said “we will have to review the game first before issuing any decision on whether to ban it or allow it. If it becomes an international matter, various avenues are taken through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to follow this up.”

Greg Kasavin, a producer on Spec Ops, pointed out that although the game takes place in Dubai, it’s a future Dubai where “an unimaginable natural disaster has struck the region.” He also points out that most of the enemies in the game are rogue U.S. soldiers.

This is what happens when you set your violent, savage war game in a real country with a real name that exists in the real world. I really hope the game doesn’t get banned in that region, because I think it would be the result of a huge misunderstanding. Dubai looks like a beautiful place with really unique architecture, and I’m sure that went into the decision to choose the location. I hope the censors realize that.