Rockstar Games blames hackers for GTA San Andreas sex scenes
Hackers are responsible for a downloadable modification that enables sexually explicit minigames to be played in the blockbuster criminal adventure video game "Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas," the game's maker said on Wednesday.
The modification, which allows simulated sex in the personal computer version of one of the most popular and controversial video games in history, has led to an investigation by the industry ratings board. It also has intensified criticism of the industry that pulled in $7.3 billion in U.S.software sales in 2004.
Some critics are calling for the game's rating to be changed from "M" (Mature 17+) to the rare "AO" (Adult Only), which would threaten to crimp sales at large retail outlets.
Gaming enthusiasts have been buzzing about the modification, dubbed "hot coffee" for weeks. Video clips identified as representing the modified minigame can be found on some gaming enthusiast Web sites.
"We have learned that the 'hot coffee' modification is the work of a determined group of hackers who have gone to significant trouble to alter scenes in the official version of the game," Rockstar Games, a subsidiary of Take-Two Interactive Software Inc., said in a statement.