Prostitutes and masturbation in GTA IV

Censors warn of steamy scenes

3 April 2008 11:40 GMT / By Katie Scott

The British Board of Film Classification has had a small fit over the violence in Manhunt 2. But what about the nudey, rudey bits in Grand Theft Auto IV? They must have turned some of the censors a lovely shade of pink.

The BBFC has now awarded Grand Theft Auto IV an 18 rating, but has, in its report, warned that the uncut version includes a "multitude" of sexual references.

A statement on the censors's website reads: "Sex references also occur during cut scenes, including references to strong sexual behaviour. During gameplay the character can pick up prostitutes".

"What follows is an undetailed portrayal of masturbation, fellatio and intercourse. The character can also visit lap dancing clubs and request a private dance. While the game contains sexualised dancing and the portrayal of sex, there is no sexualised nudity."

The ratings page for Grand Theft Auto IV has now been taken down at the developer Rockstar's request after it was revealed it contained spoilers for the title, which will be released for Xbox 360 and PS3 on 29 April.