The Arabic version of the Korean-developed medieval-themed MMORPG "Rappelz" may convince players to quit smoking, or perhaps convince those who don't smoke to never do so. At least, that's the idea.

Starting May 26, and lasting for just one week, the game's developer Game World 7 is holding a smoke free event in the virtual world. So far, we just know this means a few signs will be littered about the game world and users will receive "in-game gifts containing anti smoking messages."

This seemingly random event isn't held by developer Game World 7 because they all of a sudden realized smoking's not-so-healthy for the lungs; it's the company's little contribution to "World No Tobacco Day," which begins on May 31.

Although I realize their intentions are good, I'm not sure if I support this campaign. The goal of most MMORPGs is to immerse the player in a believable experience or world, but something like this might actually lower the player's level of immersion. Then again, maybe the tradeoff is worth it.

On another note, I think Chinese MMOs need to implement similar measures, as smoking is so prevalent over there most titles are designed with the idea that the player will have one hand on a cigarette while engaged and the other on a mouse.

Posted by Kyle Stallock
May 28, 2009

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