Classification office to review Grand Theft Auto

Following revelations that a popular video game contains hidden sex scenes, the Chief Censor is reviewing its current R18 classification.

Chief Censor Bill Hastings said the game, Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, was classified R18 - the highest age restriction possible - in 2004.

The classification was given because of the game's depiction of crime and violence, but at the time, the sexual content was not known.

The extra scenes can be activated by downloading additional software to unlock codes already existing in the game.

"I have decided to use my power to call in the game for classification now that these hidden scenes have come to light," he said.

While it was possible the restriction would not change, censors needed to be sure the current classification was "still appropriate", Mr Hastings said.

The process is expected to take two weeks.

If the classification changes, distributors will be required to re-label the game.

While the chief censor had occasionally reclassified films, this was the first time he had used his power to recall a game, he said.

- NZPA