The argument that video games cause violent behavior has been around for as long as video games began to portray aggressive and brutal scenes. While games often romanticize various aspects of violent activities, multiple studies and reports have shown that there is no direct correlation between video games and real world violence. Both arguments have been prevalent for years ,but unfortunately it seems as though the negative view on gaming is once again on the rise. This time the topic of banning “violent video games” looks to be headed up by Chicago, Illinois’ leadership.

Representative Marcus C. Evans Jr. has filed for changes to the House Bill 3531 that for the moment restricts the sale of violent video games to minors. Evans Jr.’s proposed changes however would prohibit the sale of “all” violent video games regardless of age. According to the report, Chicago has seen an increased rate of violent crimes and carjackings, with 218 reports having been filed in January of this year alone. Chicago representatives are cited in the report with claims that video games such as Grand Theft Auto are to blame. The claims state that games such as GTA serve as an inspiration for such violent or otherwise criminal behavior and that by banning them, it will make the communities that have been affected safer in the grand scheme of things. Should the amended bill make it through, offenders who continue to sell, buy, or rent “violent video games” in Chicago will be subject to a $1000 fine.

The amendment also updates the definition of a “violent video game”, describing them as any game that includes carjacking, a subject they consider as “serious physical harm.” It’s hard to say what will happen in the future with the proposed bill in motion, and gamers local to Chicago undoubtedly won’t stay quiet on the matter. Let us know your thoughts on the proposed changes to the bill restricting video game sales to minors to everyone in Chicago and more in the comments section below. As always, don’t forget to follow Don’t Feed the Gamers on Twitter for 24/7 coverage of all things gaming and entertainment.

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