VIOLENCE: Can you think of a video game that you thought was excessive and unnecessary in its use of violence and blood/gore? (ie: the "No Russian" mission in COD, or the latest over the top fatalities in the next Mortal Kombat sequel). Do you view these games as artistic expression or cheap publicity stunts? Do you believe that designers have an ethical responsibility to limit the violence in their games (given that their games are so easily accessible to children) or is the onus always on the parents?

What about the opposite? Can you think of a game where the violence was meaningful and/or a necessary component of the game?