GTAV’s social commentary on torture gets mixed reviews

When a game turns political, bad things usually result. Thankfully, it doesn’t happen that often, but it flies with wings spread throughout Grand Theft Auto V. One particular scene of interest is the use of torture and everyone seems to have an opinion over whether it was a good choice or in poor taste. Warning: spoilers…

The game gives you the freedom to drive like a madman, mow down pedestrians, and engage in various other activities most people would never dream of doing in real life. Like play golf. And it’s all good, reckless fun.

But as you move through the game’s story, or listen to its commercials and talk radio, or even eavesdrop on the chatter of passersby, the satirical side comes out. Sometimes it’s just for laughs; at other times it’s darker and more cutting.