July 20^th, 2005 (3:34pm) - The Computer Entertainment Supplier’s Association (CESA) in Japan has pre-empted possible legislation by prefectural and national government by introducing new voluntary measures to prevent the sale of 18-rated games to minors.

A number of crimes supposedly influenced by games like Grand Theft Auto III to Resident Evil have made headlines this year in Japan, putting the issue of video game violence a big part of the government’s focus, especially since the media in Japan has traditionally been free of heavy constraints on violent or sexual content.

The CESA has created a plan which will see videogame retailers refusing to sell 18-rated games to minors, unless accompanied by a consenting parent or guardian, and placing the titles on shelves separately from those suitable for children.

Retailers will also be requested to post information about the CERO (Computer Entertainment Rating Organisation) ratings system in their stores, to help parents to make more informed decisions about their purchases.

Although the scheme remains voluntary, and no penalties for retailers who do not participate have been outlined, CESA distribution committee boss Kiyoshi Komatsu claims that over 95 per cent of game retailers support the proposals, including electronics stores and convenience stores as well as specialist retailers.

The CESA is hoping that the introduction of these voluntary measures will put the brakes on efforts to legislate against violent videogames in Japan, which have already seen Kanagawa prefecture banning sales of GTA3 to underage customers, with several other laws on the verge of introducing new legislation regarding the matter.