Virtual Sex: How Online Games Changed Our Culture

By Damon Brown, Feral House. Posted November 27, 2008.

Microsoft also took risks with its Mature-rated XBox 360 title Mass Effect, a game that was banned in Singapore before it was even released. (The country would later lift the ban, perhaps because of pressure from the multimedia giant.) Built like a dynamic sci-fi novel, Mass Effect allows you to create a space military character from scratch, visit different solar systems and explore hundreds of possible storylines and outcomes. Each decision you make sends you on a different path.

The developers released early video footage of the game to the press. "I see the sadness behind your eyes," a female alien with well-braided cornrows and sensitive eyes says to you. "It tells a story that makes me want to weep. Pain and loss. But it drives you! Makes you strong. You never hide your strength, either. It serves you well, terrifies your foes. Few will dare to stand against you. This may be who you are, but this is not who you will become. It only forms the basis for your future greatness. Remember these words when doubt descends, Commander." Your character, a tough blonde with close-cropped hair, stutters over her words. The alien touches her face. "Close your eyes and relax, Commander." The game closes in on their faces, the Commander standing in front of the alien while she makes an expression of subtle ecstasy. The scene ends with a close-up of the alien's blue arm, thrown against the bedpost in a fit of passion and then sensuously brought down, as if gone limp. Mass Effect was released on November 20, 2007. Aside from the Singapore ban, the game did not bring any major protests or political speeches, nor were any hidden sex games or secret naked scenes revealed later. There were no million-dollar recalls nor any lawsuits from concerned parents.

Three weeks after the launch, however, Microsoft did make an official announcement: Mass Effect had already sold more than a million copies.

Copyright 2008 Feral House.

Click here for a copy of Porn and Pong: How Grand Theft Auto, Tomb Raider and Other Sexy Games Changed Our Culture. 

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Damon Brown writes about sex, technology, music and video games for Playboy, New York Post and Family Circle, and is the tech columnist for AARP Online and PlanetOut.

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