GTA 5 launches in Saudi Arabia and UAE after 12 years with strict 21+ age rating but players have mixed reactions
It's a rating never seen before anywhere else in the world for GTA 5, but authorities in Saudi Arabia and UAE seem to think the game's mature content deserves stricter control.
عِش تجربة الترفيه الهائلة مع Grand Theft Auto V وGrand Theft Auto Online المصنفة +21 في المملكة العربية السعودية ودولة الإمارات العربية المتحدة.متوفرة الآن على PlayStation 5. pic.twitter.com/XnXHshqdya
What is the age restriction for GTA 5 in Saudi Arabia and the UAE?
The region's ratings boards have given GTA 5 a 21+ rating, which is exclusive to these countries. This restriction reflects the game's controversial content, which includes violence, explicit scenes, and crime themes that have been sensitive topics in Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
PlayStation Arabia announced the game's availability on X, confirming it's out on PS5 from July 17 with the +21 age certificate.
What are players saying about GTA 5's release in Saudi Arabia?
While some players in Saudi Arabia and UAE are happy to finally play GTA 5 legally, others aren't too impressed. A few pointed out that the age rating doesn't change the game's content, asking whether the rating makes it 'halal' now.
Another major complaint is the lack of Arabic translation. Players have questioned the point of officially launching the game if many local gamers won't even understand the language.
GTA 5 is now legal but still divisive
Despite the excitement, the launch hasn't satisfied everyone. Some believe the release should have come with cultural adjustments, while others are just glad it's finally available. Either way, GTA 5 is now officially on shelves in Saudi Arabia and UAE but only for those 21 and above.
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