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Neo-nazi Computer Games Now Are Big Hit in West Germany

January 10, 1989
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Neo-Nazis have found a new outlet: computerized games with anti-Semitic or racist overtones that feature forbidden Nazi symbols and propaganda.

BPS, a government office that monitors material considered unsuitable for German youth, warned that the games are proliferating and have become popular among an increasing numbers of youngsters.

The games have names such as “Clean Germany,” “The Nazi” and “Anti-Turkish Test.” Turks, who came here mainly as guest laborers, are the largest national minority in the Federal Republic and are currently the target of virulent xenophobia.

According to BPS, many of the computer programs include passages from Hitler’s speeches and feature Nazi symbols, which are banned. The producers of these programs use models from North American altered to suit their own ideas.

One game asks the player, “Should your SS men persecute Jews? (Y/N).”

In another, players are asked to choose among several concentration camps to send their victims.

In addition, neo-Nazi activists are using electronic mailbox services to exchange programs and messages.

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