Atomic Heart, a new video game developed by Mundfish, was denied a rating in Ukraine due to accusations of being a form of state propaganda. This decision has sparked a great deal of controversy and discussion.
Atomic Heart is an upcoming video game set in an alternate Soviet Union universe. Players are cast as a KGB agent who travels to mysterious and dangerous locations to uncover mysteries and nefarious plots. The developers envisioned a game that showcases the grandeur of Soviet architecture and art, and that immerses players in a storyline featuring the nuances of Soviet life.
Ukraine’s State Film Agency refused to classify Atomic Heart, citing accusations that it is a “tool of Russia’s state propaganda.” Specifically, the Agency noted that Atomic Heart was designed to exploit subconscious connections with the Soviet Union, and that it glorifies the Soviet period. Furthermore, the Agency argued that such a game could influence Ukraine’s younger generations to develop a negative view of the current government and on moral values.
The decision to deny Atomic Heart has received both support and criticism. Supporters of the decision argue that it is necessary to protect the country’s youth from being exposed to potential propaganda. Critics, however, argue that it is wrong to censor a work of art and that the Agency’s decision to deny classification of the game is overly censorship-happy.
The controversy surrounding Atomic Heart has sparked an important discussion about censorship, particularly in the realm of video games. It’s clear that more needs to be done to ensure that works of art are not censored simply because they are deemed to be ‘disruptive’ or ‘offensive.’
At the same time, however, it’s important to recognize the importance of protecting the country’s citizens from potential propaganda, and to strike a balance between free expression and responsible decision-making. It is an issue that will require careful consideration to ensure the rights of artists, citizens, and the integrity of Ukraine’s state are all respected.