7. GTA-V - Interactive Torture
Much of the media circus surrounding GTA-V's post-release related to the nature of the 'By The Book' mission. Caught between the crossfires of corrupt officials and governments agencies, the player is tasked with performing brutal interrogation techniques upon a terrorist suspect, using an array of waterboarding techniques, electrolysis and prying out teeth using pliers. This scene challenges players to perform a task they know is inherently wrong. Although violence of this nature is not misplaced within modern television, movies and video games, 'By The Book' becomes a decidedly difficult scene to fathom. The agent's blasé demands and Trevor's willingness, coupled with the captive Mr K's pain and pleas for mercy, raises questions about the nature of our governments' actions. The noted effect upon the player is more forceful, however - having to physically and mentally interact with the game to make a decision as to how the torture transpires.
Psychological Effects This scene is a notable departure from GTA's undirected, slapstick violence. This incident of individualised, isolated pain carries through the remainder of the narrative, as it becomes impossible to disassociate Trevor's image from the player's interactions in 'By The Book'. Although Trevor was already an established psychopath (thus limiting the vilification effects of the scene), players have commented on the extreme aftermath feelings of guilt and regret, following the revelation that not all the torture methods were necessary to progress the mission. Players were left with the reality that they chose to exact the maximum degree of pain and suffering upon an innocent individual.