America’s Army Under Fire, Responds With Toys

University of Michigan Professor Brad Bushman recently took a snipe at the U.S. Army’s use of America’s Army as a recruitment tool. He apparently has issue with the idea that war is a game, and thinks that giving impressionable young (potential) recruits the idea that active combat is anything like the pixellated version is misleading and dangerous. In an interview with CBS correspondent Jim Acosta, Bushman commented on the recruitment-tool-cum-FPS, saying:

The video game does provide a sanitized view of violence. For example, when you shoot someone or when you are shot you see a puff of blood; you don’t see anyone suffering or writhing in pain.

A fair point, and I personally think the whole America’s Army scene is a little to shady for my own liking. However, the Army is using it to try to reach a new, young generation that is addicted to video games, so approaching them with this medium is actually a brilliant move. Kudos to them for moving with the times.

Funny though, that amidst the criticism, the creators of the game have chosen to cross the “war is fun” line once again and come out with…action figures! Just in time for Christmas too. Made by Jazwares, the figures are part of the America’s Army “Real Heroes” Program, and modeled after real soldiers who have distinguished themselves within the ranks. Of the first four released, three won citations in Operation Iraqi Freedom (surprised?), and one in Operation Enduring Freedom (Afganistan).

Maybe they can arrange Army play dates for 6 year olds; never can start too young.

Via GamePolitics and GamesPress, Image from AmericasArmy.com