Violence in video games has an age limit, but violence in reality does not. Therefore, we created “Violence of Reality” – a game putting light on the issue and urging politicians to strengthen the law of violence against children even IRL.
The current legal system in Sweden does not protect children from all types of domestic violence. For example, from witnessing violence or being verbally threatened. UNICEF wanted us to spread light on this issue and put pressure on politicians to change the legal protection for children to the better. The aim was to get at least 10 000 petition signatures – to make politicians act.
Only during the first 24 hours of the campaign, over 500 people played the game and Sweden’s most popular morning show talked about the initiative and tested the game on air during prime time. The campaign reached over 30 million interactions in tradition and social media and over 26 000 people signed the petition.
The Swedish government is now exploring ways to make all violence towards children punishable by law. Giving countless at-risk children hope that one day, protection from violence won’t just be a game.
To raise awareness of the important issue, two of biggest Counter-Strike legends decided to help by livestreaming the game on Twitch: Emil "HeatoN" Christensen and Tommy "Potti" Ingemarsson, founders of NiP (Ninjas in Pyjamas).
The project had an earned media reach of over 14 500 000, and was highlighted in various media channels such as: Creativity Online, TV4 Nyhetsmorgon, Nöjesbladet, Aftonbladet, Feber, SVD.