NRA releases its own first-person shooter, rated 4+

If the news hasn’t been kind to you today thus far, be prepared for that to change: In a bit of hypocrisy, the National Rifle Association (NRA) – yes, that group that blamed violence in America today, including the horrid Newtown, Connecticut elementary shooting, on video games and the industry that covers them – has released their very own first-person shooter on the iOS, Apple App Store.

Simply titled “NRA: Practice Range,” players can utilize an arsenal of nine firearms across three, “immersive” shooting ranges to take down outlined targets.  The app itself allows users to stay up-to-date on NRA legislations, news, and state-to-state rights when it comes to firearms. Oh yah, here’s a kicker, it’s for ages 4+.

I will be fair, and I use that term lightly in this instance, and state that the app does aim to teach players safe gun handling, shooting; but I’ll leave the rest of the game’s laughable details for you to read.

NRA: Practice Range also offers a 3D shooting game that instills safe and responsible ownership through fun challenges and realistic simulations. It strikes the right balance of gaming and safety education, allowing you to enjoy the most authentic experience possible.

Now, it’s pretty funny to me that the organization believes that a shooting game can be okay, as long as it teaches players valuable, real-life tips, but don’t the “violent” and “gory” games we play, and the NRA oppose, do just that now? Haven’t these types of games taught us valuable survival tips along the way? Haven’t you gained insight on aspects of life (i.e. locations, groups, worldviews) during your time spent gaming? I’m not saying all violent video games teach us something, but I can certainly name a few instances where gaming has made a stamp on my personal knowledge.

Interestingly enough, the NRA failed to comment on their game’s release, and weren’t about to comment on it on Twitter, as reviews on the game’s iOS page aren’t off to a hot start. If you wish to check out the game itself, you can do so by clicking here.

Source: [iOS App Store]