Greece lifts computer games ban

Greece's ban on playing computer games appears to have been lifted.

According to an article in the English language Greek newspaper Kathimerini, the Government has sought to clarify a poorly worded law designed to crack down on electronic gambling.

The newspaper quotes a statement from the Economy and Finance Ministry, which said: "There is no problem for any individual or for the tourists visiting Greece to use their private electronic or other games such as Playstation, Gameboy, X-Box et cetera.

"It is permissible to set up and use gaming devices in areas used exclusively for habitation or residence, provided the use of the devices does not result in any form of financial gain for players or third parties," it said.

Earlier this month a Greek judge threw out a case against two cybercafe owners from Thessaloniki, ruling that a law banning computer games was unconstitutional.

Had they been found guilty, the two proprietors and an employee could have faced a three month jail sentence and fines of about E5,000 each, along with the loss of their business licences.

At the time it seemed as if common sense had returned following the Greek Government's introduction of a law banning the use of computer games.

However, last week confusion ruled once again an appeals court overturned the decision and ordered a retrial.

So has this latest missive from the Government cleared things up? Dunno - might be worth an e-flutter though. ®

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