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Late 1980s: Early Concerns About Video Game Content
Event: Growing apprehension about violent content in video games. Details: Media outlets begin reporting on the potential negative effects of video game violence on youth. Media: Scans of early newspaper articles highlighting concerns. -
September 1992: Release of Mortal Kombat
Event: Launch of the arcade game Mortal Kombat. Details: The game's graphic violence and fatalities spark controversy. Media: Mortal Kombat (1993) Magazine Ad Artwork
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December 1993: U.S. Senate Hearings on Video Game Violence
Event: Senate hearings led by Senators Joe Lieberman and Herb Kohl. Details: Discussions focus on violent games like Mortal Kombat and Night Trap, leading to calls for industry regulation. Media: Timetoast -
September 27, 1993: TIME Magazine Cover Story
Event: Publication of TIME's "Attack of the Video Games" cover story. Details: The article examines the growing concern over video game violence and its impact on youth. Media: Timetoast -
July 1994: Establishment of the ESRB
Event: Creation of the Entertainment Software Rating Board. Details: The ESRB introduces a standardized rating system for video games to inform consumers about content. Media: Timetoast -
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Late 1990s: Ongoing Debates and Cultural Impact
Event: Continued discussions on video game violence. Details: Debates persist regarding the influence of violent games on behavior, leading to further studies and media coverage.